What is MSK Physiotherapy?
MSK physiotherapy, also known as musculoskeletal physiotherapy, is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders and injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system. This system includes muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones. MSK physiotherapy aims to restore movement, function, and strength to the affected areas, relieving pain and improving overall quality of life.
Why you might need MSK physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy treatment can help with conditions such as:
- Spinal pain (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral), neck, mid and lower back pain, including disc prolapse, nerve pain, spondylosis, whiplash, wry neck and sciatica
- Sports injuries, such as sprains and strains (acute and chronic)
- Tendon, ligament and soft tissue injuries (rotator cuff pain, Achilles tendinitis, runner’s knee, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, ACL rupture)
- Osteoarthritis and joint pains
- Pregnancy-related back pain, pelvic and pubic symphysis dysfunction
- Hip and groin pain, osteitis pubis, greater trochanter pain syndrome
- Age-related pain, ‘growing pains’ such as Sever’s and Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Headaches, migraines and BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
- Post-operative rehabilitation
- Chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia
Benefits of MSK Physiotherapy
MSK physiotherapy offers a multitude of benefits aimed at improving your overall physical health and well-being. It is designed to relieve pain and inflammation, which can significantly enhance your comfort and quality of life. By improving joint mobility and flexibility, MSK physiotherapy helps you move more freely and with less discomfort.
The treatment also focuses on strengthening muscles and tendons, which supports your body and aids in preventing further injuries. Enhancing functional ability and independence is another key advantage, enabling you to perform daily activities with greater ease. Furthermore, MSK physiotherapy promotes self-management and empowerment, encouraging you to take an active role in your own health care. Overall, it contributes to improved physical and mental well-being, offering a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health.
Which patients can benefit from MSK physiotherapy?
We accept patients from all ages. Our team are experienced in treating paediatric patients with MSK conditions – our youngest patient so far was 6 months old!
We accept self referrals in addition to GP referrals, making it easier for patients to access our services.
You are never too old to benefit from treatment; it often makes a really big difference with older people who are starting to find everyday life getting a bit harder, to lose their balance or to not feel as strong and mobile. Our oldest patient was 97 years’ old when they started treatment with us!
Types of therapies are offered by our team
- Joint and soft tissue mobilisations/manipulations
- Shockwave therapy
- Corticosteroid/hyaluronic acid injections
- Acupuncture
- Strapping/taping
- Myofascial/soft tissue release
- K-laser
- Ossur knee braces
- Orthopaedic brace and supports
- Customised orthotics
- Vestibular rehabilitation
- Advice and education
Consultation: from £90
Diagnostic imaging costs vary based on needs
Please call our imaging bookings team for pricing
Before therapy
You do not need a referral for a physiotherapy appointment. We work as autonomous practitioners and are often referred to as ‘First Contact Physiotherapists’. This means we are fully qualified and experienced at assessing patients in primary care with MSK conditions (suspected or diagnosed) without the need for another medical professional such as a doctor.
For self referral, you can initiate your own physiotherapy appointment by making a call to our contact centre and providing basic information about your health issues.
When you phone to book the appointment, our contact centre team will guide you to the most appropriate member of the team. All of our experts treat MSK conditions, but we also have different specialties.
All of our physiotherapists are recognised by the private medical insurance companies.
Please bring along any medical letters or diagnostic scan results relating to your current issue. If a scan or x-ray has been performed elsewhere, we can ask for it to be sent to our system.
If you intend to use private medical insurance to fund physiotherapy, please provide the authorisation and policy number and are aware of any limitations e.g. number of sessions authorised.
During therapy
During your initial consultation, a thorough assessment will identify the cause of your problem and set treatment goals. You’ll provide a medical history followed by a physical exam. The appointment includes a clinical examination, explanation of findings, advice, and, if suitable, treatment. The inclusion of occupational therapists in our team as part of a multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care. You’ll receive a clear treatment plan to optimise recovery and function.
Referral for diagnostic investigation
An appointment with an advanced practitioner in physiotherapy (APP) assesses musculoskeletal conditions that may need further diagnostic investigation, like MRI, radiograph, or ultrasound. A formal referral is required before imaging. Our APPs can assess conditions and, if needed, refer you to our onsite diagnostic imaging suite. Images are assessed, results explained, and specific recommendations made, possibly including specialist referral or rehabilitation.
The APP takes a full medical history and performs a physical exam. Based on symptoms and radiological guidelines, they advise on the most appropriate investigation and inform you of any associated risks. We collaborate with Consultant Radiologists, Orthopaedic Consultants, and General Practitioners to ensure patients are prepared for specialist appointments and receive expert guidance on care progression. Results are usually available within 48 hours, after which you’ll be contacted to discuss findings and treatment options.
Gait analysis and bespoke orthotics
Using clinical examination and scanning techniques, we assess gait patterns, providing information on posture and balance. Our specialists analyse movement patterns and muscle recruitment to enhance function and strength. We use advanced gait scanning for 2D and 3D analysis.
Data from assessment and gait analysis help develop rehabilitation protocols and assess orthotics’ benefits for optimising movement and alleviating pain.
After therapy
You will go away with a plan of action that you have agreed with your physiotherapist. You may have a new exercise programme or a course of treatment, you may be referred to another specialist or not need another appointment at all. We will guide you through this with shared decision making.
Our private clinic provides tailored care and is affiliated with medical insurers for enhanced patient support.
We can send a letter to your NHS GP or another medical professional to keep them informed of your appointments, if required.
At your follow-up appointment, we will check your progress since starting treatment and make sure your treatment goals are at the centre of the plan.
Preventing injuries
Preventing injuries is an essential aspect of MSK physiotherapy. By identifying potential risks and taking proactive measures, individuals can reduce their likelihood of injury. Some strategies include:
- Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity
- Maintaining good posture and body mechanics
- Using proper lifting techniques
- Wearing appropriate footwear and protective gear
- Stretching and warming up before exercise
- Listening to your body and taking regular breaks
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial assessment
At your first appointment, we will take a detailed medical history and perform an assessment to better understand your condition.
Treatment plan
During this appointment, we will review your results and collaboratively decide on the next steps regarding your treatment.
Treatment
Based on your treatment plan, you will visit our physiotherapy department for treatment/s. If required and indicated, additional sessions may be added.
Aftercare
You will go away with a plan of action that you have agreed with your physiotherapist. You may have a new exercise programme or a course of treatment, you may be referred to another specialist or not need another appointment at all.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
Consultation: from £90
Diagnostic imaging costs vary based on needs
Please call our imaging bookings team for pricing