Self Refer into NHS Lanarkshire Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy

✅ Who Can Use Phio?

Phio is available to anyone aged 16 or over who is registered with a GP practice in NHS Lanarkshire. If you have a joint or muscle problem you can access Phio on any device with internet access. Phio offers a quick and easy way to get the right care, without needing to wait for a GP or Physio appointment.

How it works:

1. You will complete a 10-15 minute digital assessment.
2. Your answers will be reviewed by qualified physiotherapists.
3. You will be signposted to the most appropriate care pathway. This may be an appointment within the NHS Lanarkshire MSK Physiotherapy service, or a self-management app with exercises you can follow at home.

Phio also checks for any urgent symptoms and will guide you to Urgent Care or your GP Practice if needed.

You can use Phio if:

• You live in North or South Lanarkshire
• You are aged 16 or over
  (If you’re under 16, please speak to your GP about a referral)
• You are able to attend an outpatient appointment if needed
• You are willing to take part in a rehabilitation programme, which may include changes to your behaviour or lifestyle
• You can spend around 15 minutes completing the online form

🚫 When Not to Use Phio

Phio is designed to help with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions—problems with your bones, joints, muscles, or nerves.

Please do not use Phio if:

• You do not have a musculoskeletal condition
  Learn more about MSK conditions → Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy | NHS Lanarkshire
• You are only looking for an MRI or scan
• Your condition is better suited to Podiatry (e.g. heel pad pain, Morton’s neuroma, or other foot/toe issues)
  Find podiatry support → Podiatry | NHS Lanarkshire
• You are seeking help for Chronic Widespread Pain, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or ME
  Support for chronic pain → Chronic Pain | NHS Lanarkshire
  Support for CFS/ME → Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ ME | NHS Lanarkshire
• You need help from the Pelvic Health team or your condition is related to pregnancy
  Pelvic health services → Pelvic Health Obstetric Physiotherapy | NHS Lanarkshire

💡 What is Phio?

Phio provides a clinically supported online assessment to help us direct you to the right appointment depending on your bone, muscle or joint concern.
At the end of your online assessment, you may be directed to an appointment within the NHS Lanarkshire service, or to a self management app (if you are clinically appropriate to do so).

This assessment is your fastest route to getting the care you need.

• ✅ It’s free to use
• 🧑‍⚕️ It’s overseen by Physiotherapists
• 🔄 It will not affect your access to other NHS care services
• 🏡 It offers a self management app to support people who can recover safely and immediately from home

Using Phio

⚠️ Using Phio?

Phio may include gentle exercises to help you manage pain and recover. But before you begin, it’s important to make sure it’s safe for you—especially if you’re feeling unwell or have certain medical conditions.

Please take extra care if you have:

• Neurological conditions (like Parkinson’s, MS, epilepsy, or stroke)
• Breathing problems (such as COPD, asthma, or tuberculosis)
• Metabolic conditions (like osteoporosis or diabetes)
• Heart conditions (including angina, stents, heart attacks, or high blood pressure)

You should only use Phio if:

• ✅ Your condition is stable
• ✅ You’ve had no new symptoms
• ✅ There’s been no recent change in medication
• ✅ You’re not waiting on any tests or scans
• ✅ A health professional has said exercise is safe for you
• ✅ You feel comfortable and confident to take part

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with your GP or healthcare provider before starting.