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MDT Physiotherapists

First Contact Physiotherapists (MDT)

First Contact Physiotherapists are experts in problems with joints, muscles and soft tissue (back pain, neck pain, painful joints or sprains and strains).

They can:

  • Diagnose your condition
  • Offer advice and exercises to manage your condition
  • Order tests
  • Prescribe medication
  • Request x-rays
  • Refer a patient to another service if required
  • Direct a patient to community-based activities

The physiotherapist will give a patient advice and may provide exercises and discuss medication. If they feel a patient requires a course of physiotherapy treatment, they can refer the patient or advise them to self-refer.

They will be able to discuss medication and may also prescribe some medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the physiotherapist refer me to another specialist?

The physiotherapist is able to refer you to a specialist service such as Orthopaedics, Rheumatology or Pain Clinic.

I need a joint injection – can the physiotherapist do this?

The physiotherapist can carry out a joint injection to relieve symptoms if it is appropriate.

Will I receive treatment from the physiotherapist?

The physiotherapist will give you advice and may provide you with exercises and discuss medication.

If he / she feels you require a course of physiotherapy treatment, they can refer you or advise you to self-refer.

Can the physiotherapist write a prescription?

The physiotherapist will be able to discuss medication that may help your symptoms and may also prescribe some medication.

Can anyone see the physiotherapist?

You should ask to see another health care professional if you are:

  • Acutely unwell
  • Have continence problems
  • Have respiratory symptoms
  • Have headaches or a problem with your neurological condition such as Parkinson’s Disease, MS or Stroke
  • Receiving medical management for Rheumatoid Arthritis
How do I make an appointment?

This MDT service is currently only available in the Derry/Londonderry, Causeway, Newry & District, West Belfast, Down, Ards & North Down areas.   Please contact your GP Practice within these areas to book an appointment.