We are pleased to announce that the First Contact Practitioner (FCP) service is available through The Lodge Surgery in conjunction with our Primary Care Network.
Patients who contact the surgery with joint or muscle pains or injuries can now be directed straight to the FCP service. The service provides assessment and enables self-management by qualified and experienced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists without the need to see the doctor or nurse first.
Who can they see?
- 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 etc
- Spinal pain including lower-back pain, mid-back pain and neck pain
- Spinal-related pain in arms or legs, including nerve symptoms, eg pins and needles or numbness
- Changes to walking
- Post-orthopaedic surgery
The turnaround for contact with the service is far quicker than the traditional physiotherapy service. An appointment will usually be offered on the same day or within 24 hours (Monday-Friday). To access the service contact the surgery in the usual way.
The service is not available for under 16s, medical management of rheumatoid conditions, ante-natal or post-natal physio problems, neurological or respiratory conditions, mental health crisis, those with long term conditions or those who are acutely unwell.
