Their goal is to help patients regain mobility, improve function, and become more active in their daily lives.
To access our Outpatient Physiotherapy services, you must meet the following criteria:
We accept referrals from the following sources:
Additionally, self-referrals are accepted, meaning you can refer yourself directly to our Outpatient Physiotherapy service without needing to see your GP first, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you must consult your GP before completing the self-referral form:
DO NOT use the self-referral form if you have lower back pain or pain that travels from your back to your legs, and any of the following symptoms:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Referring yourself for physiotherapy is simple! You can do it by filling out the self-referral form and sending it via email or post. Here's how:
Complete the Self-Referral Form: FCHC MSK Self referral form June 2020 Version 7 Acc.pdf [pdf] 202KB. If you'd rather have a paper copy to complete you can also pick this up from your GP surgery.
Once you've completed the form, please save it as a PDF (not a photo or JPG). Then, send it in:
By email: Send the completed form to: fchc.msk@nhs.net
By post: Mail the paper copy to - Oxted Therapies Unit, Barnetts Shaw, Oxted, RH8 0NQ
What does the service provide?
Based on a comprehensive assessment, we are able to provide a detailed explanation of the presenting condition and the management plan. We offer a personalised treatment approach tailored to each individual's specific needs, taking into account their unique circumstances and goals.
Our focus is on exercise, education, and empowerment, as these have been shown to be the most effective treatments for long-term recovery and self-management.
While we may also use techniques such as manual therapy, taping and acupuncture when appropriate, these are typically short-term measures designed to support the overall rehabilitation process.
What to expect
Your care will begin with an initial assessment, where a physiotherapist will take a detailed history of your condition and carry out a physical examination. Please wear loose-fitting clothing or shorts to allow us to look at your affected body part. In some cases, you may be requested to remove some items of clothing.
Following your assessment, you'll be advised on the most appropriate management options, which may include:
We offer a range of targeted rehabilitation classes designed to support recovery and improve function.Your physiotherapist may advise you if there is an appropriate class for you to attend.
A tailored exercise programme focused on improving strength, mobility, and function in the lower limbs. Utilises our specialist equipment and physiotherapist-led guidance. Duration: Once a week for 6 weeks
Designed for individuals recovering from a total knee replacement. Aims to restore range of motion and improve functional mobility. Duration: Once a week for 6 weeks
Suitable for individuals experiencing shoulder pain related to rotator cuff dysfunction. Focuses on progressive exercises to improve shoulder strength and control. Duration: Once a week for 8 weeks.
Combines guided exercise with educational discussions to help reduce back pain, improve quality of life, and promote long-term self-management. Duration: Once a week for 6 weeks.
A group rehabilitation programme for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis. Combines educational self-management strategies with personalised exercise plans to help reduce pain and improve quality of life. Duration: Twice a week for 6 weeks.
If you have any questions or need help with the referral process, please don't hesitate to contact us at fchc.msk@nhs.net.
Your appointments will be held at one of First Community's outpatient clinics in Caterham, Oxted, and Redhill.
Church Road, Caterham CR3 5RA
01883 837507
Clinic hours:
Barnetts Way, Oxted RH8 0NQ
01883 733890 (please choose option 4 to be transferred to the admin team).
Clinic hours:
Canada Avenue, Redhill, RH1 5RH
01737 231688
Clinic hours:
Parking is available at all clinic locations. Please note: A parking fee applies at East Surrey Hospital, and parking spaces can be limited at busy times. We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking.
You can also access First Contact Physiotherapists directly at your GP surgery without needing to see your GP first. This service is available for patients aged 18 and over and is offered at all GP practices across east Surrey.
Call your usual surgery number to book an appointment. Reception staff may ask a few questions to make sure seeing a physiotherapist is the best option for you.
Appointments last around 20 minutes.
The physiotherapist will assess your symptoms, discuss treatment options, provide advice, or refer you for physiotherapy or another service.
This service provides quick access to expert advice without needing to see a GP first, which helps free up GP appointments for other patients.
You can refer yourself to our service by completing a self-referral form. See 'How to access the Outpatient Physiotherapy service tab above.
After your referral is received, it will be triaged by a senior physiotherapist. You will then:
Initial assessments are usually face-to-face.
If you've had a total hip replacement, your first appointment may be a telephone call to discuss your post-operative care. If needed, a face-to-face appointment will follow.
Follow-up appointments are usually face-to-face, but may also be conducted by telephone or video call if appropriate for your condition.
Telephone consultations will come from a withheld number. You'll be given a specific appointment time - please ensure you are in a quiet, private space and ready to take the call. You may be asked to perform simple physical tests during the call.
See 'What does the service provide and what should I expect' tab above.
Please bring:
Please give as much notice as possible by calling the relevant site:
Missed Appointments Policy
See 'What does the service provide and what should I expect' tab above.
This depends on your individual condition and goals. Your physiotherapist will agree on a plan with you during your sessions.
Yes. You or your physiotherapist may request a chaperone to be present during your session.
We have both male and female physiotherapists. If you'd prefer to be seen by someone of the same sex, please let us know before your first appointment.
Call: 0300 200 1067
Yes. We can assist individuals who:
Please contact the department before your first appointment to arrange any necessary support.
