Self referral now available for Northern Trust MSK Physiotherapy Service

From Monday 22 April 2024, patients living in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area can refer themselves directly to the Musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy service.

Health care staff can continue to make referrals in the usual way if required or if more appropriate.

Patients can refer themselves by submitting an online form or by posting a completed paper copy.

Self-referral is not a fast track access, it is an additional method of accessing the services.  The aim is to provide a more direct route for individuals to access MSK physiotherapy services.

The new self referral pathway will enable individuals to take control of their care, and promote self-management skills.  It will also mean that GPs can reduce the time spent on MSK consultations.

Ethan Lowry, Senior MSK Physiotherapist, NHSCT, said,

“The new self-referral pathway into MSK physiotherapy will allow individuals to access physiotherapy services, without needing to contact their GP first.  This not only will reduce burden on GPs but also enables patients to take control of their own care.

“Patients will be able to express their exact symptoms and concerns, ensuring a shared decision making process is implemented from the outset.”

Musculoskeletal physiotherapy involves the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and long term management of various conditions related to the muscular and skeletal systems.

Some of the conditions often managed in the musculoskeletal physiotherapy service include, low back pain, sciatica, pelvic pain, neck pain, whiplash, shoulder, elbow and wrist pain, hip, knee and ankle pain.

You can self-refer if you are aged 16 or older, reside in the Northern Trust area, and have a neck or back problem, joint or muscle pain, or a recent injury such as a sprain or strain.

Further details and Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy self referral form

23rd April 2024