Questions
Find below the answers to our most common queries. If your question is not answered here then please get in touch.
How long is the appointment?
The length of your appointment will vary depending on the presenting complaint. Generally, new patient appointments are 30 minutes and follow up appointments are 15 minutes.
What do I need to wear?
Some of our examinations will require patients to undress so please ensure you wear suitable undergarments.
Can I be accompanied?
If you would like to be accompanied we recommend that you bring along only one relative or friend.
Can I request an appointment with the same clinician if I have seen them before?
We will try to accommodate these requests wherever possible; however, this may mean you have to wait longer for your appointment.
Why am I seeing a physiotherapist when my GP has said I will be referred to a specialist?
All our physiotherapists are clinical specialists in their own area of expertise.
The letter says I have to rest for 48 hours after treatment, does this apply to me?
This is only if you receive an injection, in which case, you will need to rest the joint/area for 48 hours for maximum benefit.
Will I be able to drive after my treatment?
It is often possible to treat your problem with injection therapy on the same day. If this is appropriate you will be required to wait 30 minutes after the injection and you may wish to be accompanied. Following this you will need to rest the affected joint for 48 hours so you may be unable to drive, please therefore arrange alternative transport.
What if it isn’t convenient for me to have treatment at my appointment following which I have to rest?
You should still attend for your appointment for the assessment, if treatment is required but inconvenient on that day another appointment will be made.
I have been referred by Pennine MSK to standard Physiotherapy, how long will I have to wait for my appointment?
These appointments usually take approximately 6 weeks.
Can I have a copy of my medical records (for example, scan reports, clinic letters)?
Patients are entitled to copies of their records. However we ask that a signed request in writing is made to the service, please address to:
Ruth Holden
Business Operations Manager
Pennine MSK Partnership Ltd
Integrated Care Centre
New Radcliffe Street
Oldham
OL1 1NL
Am I eligible to use the Self Referral/Rheumatology Helpline?
Self Referral Line: 0161 621 3576
If your clinician feels it appropriate, you may be allowed to self refer back into the service as required. You will be sent all the details by your clinician following your appointment and your self referral is valid for one year.
Rheumatology Helpline: 0161 621 3575
This line is only available to patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis or Ankylosing Spondylitis and that have already been seen within our service. This line is for advice about treatments, flare management and potential drug side effects. All other queries should be directed to our Admin Team on: 0161 621 3838.