Physiotherapy and MSK care
Musculoskeletal (MSK) care helps with problems affecting muscles, joints, bones and nerves — from back pain and sports injuries to recovery after surgery. It includes physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, sports injury clinics and podiatry. Physiotherapists and podiatrists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC); osteopaths with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC); and chiropractors with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).
NHS and private options
Physiotherapy is available on the NHS, usually via a GP referral or, in many areas, by self-referral — though waits can be long. Many people choose private physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic for quicker access and more frequent sessions. Fees are set by each clinic.
What these clinics treat
- Physiotherapy — back and neck pain, post-injury and post-operative rehabilitation, mobility.
- Sports injury clinics — assessment and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries.
- Osteopathy & chiropractic — manual approaches to joint and muscle problems.
- Podiatry / chiropody — foot and lower-limb care.
Choosing a clinic
Check that the practitioner is registered with the appropriate body for their profession. This page is general information, not medical advice — for assessment and treatment, see a registered clinician.
Last updated: 2026-06-12