The first step will be to book an initial consultation with a physiotherapist. This usually lasts for 30-60 minutes, and will include a subjective assessment which is a discussion around the history and details of the injury or condition, your relevant medical history, and previous treatment or investigations you’ve had.
Then your physiotherapist will complete an objective assessment by looking at your biomechanics and range of movement, complete various tests and also undertake a ‘hands on’ assessment of joints, muscles, ligaments etc. If needed, they will refer you for scans and tests to help identify any underlying causes.
The aim of the first consultation is to form a working diagnosis, and discuss next steps for your ongoing treatment, including initial actions you can take straight away. They will usually arrange a follow-up appointment, so they can monitor and support you throughout your treatment.
If needed, your physiotherapist may refer you to another specialist such as an orthopaedic surgeon for further examination or opinion (direct referrals are dependent on funding source and insurer).