Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Assessment and treatment for musculoskeletal problems
- Assessment of symptoms, movement, strength and function.
- An agreed plan built around your goals and capabilities.
- Exercise, self-management and hands-on treatment where appropriate.
- Referral onward when medical or specialist review is needed.
Common Presentations
What can be assessed and treated
Neck and back pain
Assessment of your symptoms, movement and function, with advice, hands-on treatment where helpful, and a graded exercise programme built around your goals and capabilities.
Shoulder, hip and knee problems
Individualised loading and movement programmes, supported by education about symptom behaviour and activity modification.
Foot and ankle problems
Including plantar heel pain and Achilles-related symptoms, managed with graded loading, footwear and activity advice.
Return to activity and sport
Progressive rehabilitation towards the activities that matter to you, adjusted according to symptoms, response and capacity.
How treatment is plannedAssessment, treatment choices and expected number of sessions
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy involves assessment of your symptoms, movement, strength and function, followed by a management plan agreed with you.
Exercise and self-management are important components of evidence-informed care. Manual therapy may be considered as part of a treatment package that includes exercise, rather than as a standalone intervention.
The number of sessions required varies depending on your goals, presentation, progress and clinical needs.
If medical assessment, investigation or specialist review is required, you may be advised to contact your GP or another appropriate healthcare professional.
Urgent or emergency medical concerns
Physiorehab is not an emergency medical service.
If you have a medical emergency or symptoms that could indicate a serious or life-threatening condition, do not wait for a physiotherapy appointment or rely on information from this website.
Call 999 or attend your nearest Emergency Department where appropriate.
For urgent but non-life-threatening concerns, contact NHS 111, your GP, or the appropriate member of your healthcare team.
Examples of symptoms requiring urgent medical assessment may include severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, chest pain, significant difficulty breathing, sudden neurological changes, collapse, unexplained severe swelling, signs of serious infection, or other symptoms that concern you.
This list is not exhaustive. If you are concerned about your health, seek appropriate medical advice.
Clinical information notice
This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an individual clinical assessment or medical advice.
The information is not tailored to your diagnosis, medical history, treatment, medications or individual risk factors.
If you have concerns about your symptoms or health, please speak with an appropriate healthcare professional.