Self Referral to Wirral Adult Musculoskeletal Service
Self-Referral is a way to refer yourself for assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions without needing to see your GP first. You can access this by this link to the Wirral University Teaching Hospital MSK self referral page.
What does the Musculoskeletal Service provide?
Specialist musculoskeletal assessment and treatment for Wirral patients with musculoskeletal conditions involving the bones, muscles, nerves, or joints.
Specialist treatments including:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Osteopathy
- Aquatic therapy
- Soft tissue and joint injections
If appropriate:
- Referral on to Orthopaedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Pain Management, Rheumatology
- Referral for investigations
Who is eligible?
Anyone 16 years old or over who is registered with a Wirral GP (including West Wirral Group Practice) can refer for any musculoskeletal problem that has been present for over 6 weeks.
You will be advised if it is not possible to complete your referral.
When is self-referral to the Musculoskeletal Service NOT appropriate?
Self-referrals within the first 6 weeks of developing symptoms are not accepted.
Evidence shows that most new injuries, aches, & pains will improve within 6 weeks with the simple steps below. At times it might feel like your problem won’t get better, but very few people need any extra care other than the steps below. Most people will find their problem will get better with time.
Please visit the WUTH website for information that may help you to manage your symptoms – Musculoskeletal Service | Wirral University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (wuth.nhs.uk)
However, if you are concerned or your condition is worsening please contact your GP or phone NHS 111.
Please do not continue with self-referral and call NHS 111 if you have recently or suddenly developed the following with the onset of lower back pain and/ or leg pain:
· A change in your bladder function or bowel control.
· Altered sensation around your genitals, back passage, buttocks or inner thighs
· Loss of sexual function.
Please do not self-refer but make an appointment to see your GP to discuss your referral if you have any of the following:
· Constant severe pain and you are unable to find relief.
· Any unexplained weight loss.
· Are feeling generally unwell/ feverish.
· Have recently become unsteady on your feet.
· Hot swollen joint.
· Recent onset of significant weakness
· A history of cancer.
· Had recent surgery
· Had a recent fracture of the body part involved.
· Are under 16 years old.
· Are seeking treatment for neurological, respiratory, obstetric & gynaecological disorders or podiatry & orthotic referral.
· If you are already under the care of a consultant for the same problem, or the pain service. Or you are on a surgical waiting list for the same problem.
What does the Wirral MSK Service Provide?
Specialist musculoskeletal assessment and treatment for patients with musculoskeletal conditions involving the bones, muscles, nerves, or joints.
Specialist Treatments including:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy for hand conditions
- Aquatic therapy
- Specialist advice and exercise programmes
- Soft tissue and joint Injections If appropriate
- Referral onto Orthopaedics surgery, Neurosurgery, Pain management, Rheumatology
- Referral for investigations
You will need to complete the self referral form to the Wirral adult musculoskeletal service (please scroll to the bottom of that page, fill in your details and click submit).
