Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a science-based healthcare profession that promotes recovery from illness, injury, or disability. It aims to restore movement and functional ability to a person’s full potential. As an independent profession, physiotherapists make their own clinical judgments and treatment decisions. They continually assess treatment outcomes and adapt their approach to best support recovery.

Physiotherapists in the UK are HCPC-registered healthcare professionals who work with people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. They adopt a holistic approach, closely involving patients in their own care. Also referred to as “PT” or “Physio,” they may work independently or as part of multidisciplinary teams alongside doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, psychologists, and others.

First Contact Physiotherapy

Low back and neck pain are among the leading causes of disability in the UK. Chronic joint pain and osteoarthritis affect more than 8.75 million people, and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions account for 30% of all GP appointments.

To address this, all adults in England are now able to see a musculoskeletal first contact physiotherapist at their local GP practice without needing a GP referral.

Most first contact practitioners are physiotherapists with enhanced skills. They support patients with conditions such as back, neck, and joint pain by:

• Assessing and diagnosing musculoskeletal issues

• Providing expert advice on management strategies

• Referring to specialist services when necessary

Patients can access physiotherapy directly through their GP practice, by speaking with a receptionist, or following a GP referral.

Benefits for Patients

• Quick access to expert MSK assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and advice

• Early intervention to prevent acute problems becoming chronic

• Improved patient experience and outcomes

• Fewer overall appointments and shorter care pathways

• Clear, streamlined logistics reduce missed appointments and admin issues

• Personalized advice on physical activity and lifestyle changes

• Longer appointments that support patients feeling listened to and reassured

KCHFT MSK Outpatient Physiotherapy Self-Referral Service

Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) provides a self-referral option for patients with musculoskeletal problems. This service allows individuals to access outpatient physiotherapy without needing to see a GP first.

How to Self-Refer

Patients can complete the referral form online:
MSK Physiotherapy Self-Referral Form

Conditions Treated

• Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries

• Joint pain and osteoarthritis

• Back and neck pain

• Upper and lower limb conditions

• Sports-specific injuries

• Repetitive strain disorders

• Chronic pain conditions

• Post-surgical rehabilitation

Treatments Offered

• Face-to-face and virtual individual treatment sessions

• Personalized exercise programs

• Education and advice sessions

• Physiotherapist-led exercise groups

Clinic Locations

Services are available across Kent, including in:

• Canterbury, Whitstable, Faversham, Herne Bay, Aylesham

• Broadstairs, Margate

• Tenterden

• Deal, Folkestone, Dover

• Gravesend, Sheppey

• Aylesford, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks

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