iMSK – Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy

Our team of physiotherapists and therapy support workers provide physiotherapy services in our hospitals and in the community.

We assess, treat and provide advice and education to patients, their families and carers if you have an injury, illness or disability. We will work with you to manage pain, help your recovery, maximise independence and prevent you from unnecessarily having to attend or come back into hospital.

We know how important it is for you to keep as much independence as possible, whether that means being able to manage the activities of daily living, go to work or to help get back in your own home.

Your physiotherapy treatment may include:

• exercises
• hands on therapy
• equipment provision
• acupuncture

We will involve you in your care from the very beginning. Providing you with education and awareness of ways, you can help support your own recovery.

Community therapy will be provided for patients who are either unable to attend outpatient clinics or in instances where it is more appropriate to provide their therapy in either their home or other community settings such as nursing or residential homes.

Physiotherapy appointments

We have appointments available on several weekday evenings until 7pm. All clinics operate on an appointment only basis. Initial appointments will last between 30 and 45 minutes. Follow up appointments last between 15 and 30 minutes.

During your appointment

• It is best to wear loose comfortable clothing. 
• You may be asked to undress to show the part of the body that is causing you the problem.
• A chaperone can be arranged if you require extra support during your session. 
• If you have a leg or back problem please bring a pair of shorts. 
• If you have a shoulder, neck or upper arm problem please bring or wear a loose fitting vest or top.

To get the most from your treatment you will need to follow the advice given by your physiotherapist and continue your exercises at home.

Things to make us aware of before your appointment

Some of the equipment and machines used in the physiotherapy department send out electrical waves that can interfere with pacemakers and hearing aids. You must tell your physiotherapist before entering the treatment room if you:

• have a pacemaker
• have a hearing aid
• are pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Making a referral

You will normally be referred to us by your GP, consultant, nurse, or allied health professional. Referrals can be accepted via SystmOne Referral Dashboard, ICE or via email at [email protected]

Referrals for physiotherapy outpatient appointments and community services will be accepted either electronically or in paper format.

Health professionals should phone our single point of access on 01429 522500 to make a referral for community, stroke and intermediate care services.

Important information

• The services can only accept referrals from people living in the Hartlepool and Stockton council boundary areas, it is likely you will be registered with a Hartlepool or Stockton GP.  If you live outside of this area, please contact your GP Practice for further information, as a referral to us would be rejected.
• The information you send us on this self-referral form will be triaged by a clinical practitioner and your referral will then be directed to the service that can most appropriately help you at your first appointment, which may include but is not limited to Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Advanced Musculoskeletal Assessment, Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery, Community Pain Management, Orthopaedics, Rheumatology
• If you feel you would benefit from a one off Physiotherapy assessment and discussion, please contact your GP Practice, as you may benefit from seeing a First Contact Physiotherapy Practitioner, which they can arrange.
• If you feel you need a more detailed assessment which may include further management, please continue to complete the self-referral form.

Self-help support and guidance

Alongside helping to manage your treatment through clinic, we have also developed a suite of ‘Living Well with Us’ webpages.

This resource provides a wealth of information and links to trusted external sites, offering advice and guidance to help you to Live well and manage your physical illness.

Contact

Useful links

• The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Physiotherapy Works
• Living well with us