RBCH: The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

 
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RBCH - Physio Direct
GPs Information
Physio Direct Telephone Advice Service
 
What is Physio Direct?
Physio Direct is a telephone advice service that has been set up to provide early advice and management for adults with back/neck/joint problems or following injuries. You do not need a GP Referral to access this service.
 
Who Is This Service For?
This service is for anyone over the age of 16 years who is registered with a Bournemouth or Poole GP.
 
 
Who Will I Speak To?
A Senior Chartered Physiotherapist based at The Royal Bournemouth Hospital will take your call.
 
How and When do I Contact the Service?
Tel: (01202) 704036

Monday
8:30am - 11:30am
1:00pm - 3:30pm
Tuesday
Thursday
Friday
 
How Long Will The Phone Call Take?
The length of telephone calls vary, but on average takes about 15 minutes.
 
What Will Happen When I Phone?

You will be asked a number of questions by the Physiotherapist in order to fully assess the problem.

You will be asked questions about:

  • Your problem and how it is affecting your daily life.
  • Your current medication.
  • Any other medical problems.

The Physiotherapist will then discuss with you the most appropriate way of managing this problem. This may include one or more of the following:

  • Advice only.
  • Advice and appropriate exercises which will be sent to you in the post.
  • Appointment arranged. All patients needing an appointment are seen according to waiting times.

If you have been given advice and are not getting better, or if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Physio Direct again.

 
What Can I Do If I Can’t Get Through?
The telephone line can get very busy, although this is variable depending on the day & time you call. You can keep trying, or leave your name & telephone number and we will try and call you back once. Alternatively, you can go back to your GP.
 
What Can I Do In The Meantime?
Keeping Active
Research has shown that resting for more than a day or so does not help and may actually prolong pain and disability. You may need to modify your activities initially, but the sooner you get back to doing them again, the sooner you will feel better.

Getting stiff joints and muscles working can be painful, but this is a normal response and not a sign of damage. Feeling a bit sore initially is normal and often a good sign that you are making progress.
Changing your position or activity frequently through the day will help to prevent and reduce stiffness. Try to keep yourself active and build up your general activity gradually.

Painkillers
If you have been prescribed painkillers these may help you to return to normal activities. ‘Over the counter’ painkillers can also be helpful; a pharmacist will be able to advise you on the appropriate tablets.

Hot or Cold
Some people find that a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel on the affected area for 20 minutes can reduce pain, whilst others prefer using a pack of frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel for 10-15 mins.

N.B. Be aware that hot and cold can burn and that you need to check (every 5 – 10 minutes) that your skin does not become very red or blotchy; if this happens, stop use.
 
   
RBCH: The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

RBCH: The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust