First contact physiotherapists (FCPs)
If you have a musculoskeletal condition—something affecting your bones, soft tissue, muscles, joints, or ligaments—specialists in GP surgeries and community services can help you access the treatment and support you need.
Many GP surgeries have a First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) who specialises in assessing and managing musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
If your GP surgery has a first contact physiotherapy service, the receptionist can book you an appointment directly with a physiotherapist, so you won’t need to wait for a referral from a doctor.
You may be offered an appointment with a physiotherapist if you experience any of the following:
- Soft tissue injury, sprain, strain, or sports injury
- Arthritis (any joint)
- Muscle, ligament, tendon, or bone issues, such as tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, or ankle sprains
- Spinal pain, including lower back, mid-back, and neck pain
- Spinal-related pain in arms or legs, including nerve symptoms such as pins and needles or numbness
- Changes to walking
- Post-orthopaedic surgery
During your appointment, the physiotherapist will:
- Assess you and diagnose your condition
- Provide expert advice on managing your condition
- Refer you to a specialist service if necessary
Find out more about your GP team
GetUBetter self-management app
The service with getUBetter, an MSK self‑management app, ends on 31 January 2026. From that date, new registrations will close. Existing users can continue to access the app for 12 weeks.
Between 1 February and 31 March 2026, there will be no alternative self-management solution; please access support via your GP practice or local community physiotherapy service. On 1 April 2026, a new Community MSK and Pain Service will launch, providing an alternative self‑management offer as part of the new service.