Spinal and Joint Treatment is the term used to describe the field of Physiotherapy, which relates to disorders of the musculoskeletal i.e. muscles, bones, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and spinal discs. Musculoskeletal Chartered Physiotherapists provide an excellent standard of care in examination, treatment and management for people with neuro-musculoskeletal problems.

Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy involves the use of manual therapy, advice, education and exercise prescription for the treatment of muscular, joint and nerve disorders of the body.  Manual therapy is the use of "hands on" treatment such as joint mobilization/ manipulation and soft tissue release techniques such as massage

Examples of conditions treated include:

• Back pain and sciatica
• Neck and arm pain
• Headache
• Whiplash injuries
• Work related upper limb disorders
• Muscle pain and muscle imbalance
• Biomechanical disorders including foot pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Sports injuries including sprains and strains
• All muscle, joint and nerve disorders of the upper and lower limbs
• TMJ (jaw joint) dysfunction

Early treatment of musculoskeletal disorders with physiotherapy minimises pain, swelling and tissue damage, prevents stiffness and ensures a quicker return to sports, work and other activities.

A Chartered Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist is extremely well placed to assess these conditions, provide you with a diagnosis and successfully treat the condition. Treatment often focuses on work practices and postures which may have contributed to the problem in the first place.

Chartered Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists are obliged to keep up to date with current research and use this research to guide the management of their patients in order to provide the highest possible level of care.

Some cases are too severe and need to be referred for an MRI scan and/or a surgical review.