GP Advanced Practice Physiotherapists are highly skilled healthcare professionals who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and managing musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. These include conditions affecting your muscles, bones, joints, and soft tissues.

GP APPs are the first point of contact for patients with MSK issues within many GP practices, inlcuding Northcote. This means you don’t need to see your GP first.

GP APPs offer expert advice and treatment for people over the age of 14 with MSK problems, such as:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Arthritis
• Sports injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Joint and muscle pain

They can:

• Assess and diagnose your condition
• Advise you on self-management to reduce pain and improve movement
• Refer you to specialist services, such as imaging, podiatry, or orthopaedics, if needed
• Recommend exercises or other treatments

• Quick Access to Care: GP APPs are available directly, so you can avoid waiting for a GP appointment
• Expertise in Musculoskeletal (MSK) Care: They specialise in MSK problems, such as bones, muscles and joints, ensuring you get the right care promptly
• Holistic Approach: GP APPs focus on helping you stay active, manage pain, and regain mobility
• Collaboration: If needed, GP APPs can work alongside your GP and other healthcare professionals

When you call the surgery and explain your symptoms, the reception team will offer an appointment with the APP at Northcote (Kirsty Anderson), if appropriate.

If you are seeing one of the other clinicans, they may also recommend you book an appointment with the APP.

During your appointment, the GP APP will:

• Ask about your symptoms and medical history
• Perform a physical exam to assess your condition
• Discuss treatment options and next steps

Appointments are usually up to 20 minutes long.

Many MSK conditions can be managed at home without the need to see a healthcare 
professional. You can access self-help guidance here at NHS GGC

You should book an appointment with a GP APP if you have:

• A new or ongoing MSK problem which you have been unable to manage
• Pain or discomfort in your joints, muscles, or bones
• Questions about exercises or treatments for MSK issues

You should see your GP if you:

• Have a general health concern not related to your muscles, bones, or joints
• If you are seeking review of medication for a chronic condition (For example, pain relief or other prescriptions)
• Experience symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or persistent swelling alongside MSK issues

For general information about NHS MSK Physiotherapy along with self-care and self-management information please visit: NHS GGC - MSK Physiotherapy

To self-refer for ongoing, regular NHS MSK Physiotherapy please visit: NHS GGC and complete the referral form

As part of World Physiotherapy Day, the below resources have been created to help people who experience low back pain. 

Low Back Pain - An Overview.pdf

Low Back Pain - Myths vs Facts.pdf

Exercise and Low Back Pain.pdf

Physiotherapy and Low Back Pain.pdf