Suzy is our onsite physiotherapist with ongoing clinics on a Monday and Tuesday, and a First Contact Physiotherapist clinic on a Thursday at Portscatho.
First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) are highly trained physiotherapists, usually based in GP surgeries.
FCPs have extensive experience in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions – such as back or neck pain – and see these patients without the need for a GP appointment.
If you have bone, joint or muscle pain, you can see an FCP.
What to expect when you see your FCP
Your FCP will assess and diagnose you.
Give you expert advice on how best to manage your condition.
Refer you onto a specialist service if necessary.
How do you book an appointment to see your FCP?
Simply contact your GP practice and request an appointment to see the FCP. The reception team will check that you’re suitable and book an appointment for you.
Criteria for booking an appointment with an FCP:
Inclusion criteria:
- All soft tissue injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries
- Arthritis – any joint
- Possible problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons or bone, e.g. tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, ankle sprains
- Spinal pain including lower back pain, mid-back pain and neck pain
- Spinal-related pain in arms or legs, including nerve symptoms, e.g. pins and needles or numbness
- Changes to walking
- Post-orthopaedic surgery
Exclusion criteria:
- Acutely unwell
- Children under 16
- Medical management of rheumatoid conditions
- Women’s health, antenatal and postnatal problems
- House-bound patients
- Medication reviews
- Neurological and respiratory conditions
- Headaches
- Acute mental health crises
After visiting Suzy in a FCP clinic we may send you a text message with a voluntary patient satisfaction questionnaire to monitor how this service is being received.