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Adult Community Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy

Assessing and treating musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.

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    Contact us

    0300 123 1951
    kentchft.physiopatients@nhs.net

    Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm

    Medway
    0300 123 3444
    Medch.cccadults@nhs.net 

    Our clinic locations across Kent are listed below:

    Clinic locations

    Aylesham Health Centre
    The Boulevard, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3DY

    Broadstairs Health Centre
    The Broadway, Broadstairs CT10 2AJ

    Canterbury Health Centrre
    26 Old Dover Rd, Canterbury CT1 3JH

    Charing GP Surgery
    Charing High Street, Charing TN27 0HZ

    Churchill Centre
    E Park Rd, Royal British Legion Village, Aylesford ME20 7NJ

    Dover Health Centre
    Maison Dieu Road, Dover, Kent CT16 1RH

    Faversham Health Centre
    Bank Street, Faversham ME13 8QR

    Gravesham Community Hospital
    Bath Street, Gravesend, DA11 0DG

    James Williams Healthy Living Centre
    First Floor The Pentagon, Military Road, Chatham, ME4 4HP

    Lordswood Healthy Living Centre
    Sultan Rd, Chatham ME5 8TJ

    MCH House
    Bailey Dr, Gillingham ME8 0PZ

    Meads Medical Centre
    The Meads, 29 Quartz Way, The Meads, Sittingbourne ME10 5AA

    Om Medical Centre
    50 Wood St, Sheerness ME12 1UA

    OurZone
    Pattens La, Rochester ME1 2RB

    Parkwood Health Centre
    Long Catlis Rd, Gillingham ME8 9PR

    Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital
    King Edward Avenue, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6EB

    Rochester Healthy Living Centre
    Delce Rd, Rochester ME1 2EL

    Royal Victoria Hospital
    Radnor Park Ave, Folkestone CT19 5BN

    Sevenoaks Hospital
    Hospital Rd, Sevenoaks TN13 3PG

    Sheppey Community Hospital
    Plover Rd, Minster on Sea, Sheerness ME12 3LT

    Thanet Community Health Hub
    Northwood Rd, Westwood, Broadstairs, CT10 2WA

    Tonbridge Cottage Hospital
    Vauxhall Lane, Tonbridge TN11 0NE

    Victoria Hospital
    London Road, Deal, Kent, CT14 9UA

    Walter Brice Centre
    Tilley Cl, Hoo, Rochester ME3 9AE

    Westbrook House
    Canterbury Road, Margate CT9 5DD

    Westview Hospital
    Plummer Lane, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6TX

    Whitstable and Tankerton Hospital
    174-176 Northwood Rd, Whitstable CT5 2HN

    Who we are

    We are a physiotherapist-led clinic for patients with musculoskeletal problems. We aim to help patients understand their condition and restore movement, strength and function. We run clinics in locations across Kent. Some clinics operate outside normal opening hours.

    What we do

    We assess and treat musculoskeletal injuries and conditions including muscle and ligament injuries, tendon problems and joint pain including osteoarthritis. We see patients with back and neck pain, and can help with upper and lower limb problems. We also help patients with sports specific injuries, repetitive strain disorders and long-term pain conditions. You may be referred to us after surgery such as total hip and knee replacements.

    Treatment includes:

    • individual and group education and advice sessions to help patients actively manage their problem.
    • face-to-face and virtual exercise groups led by a physiotherapist or physiotherapy assistant.
    • patient and problem specific exercise prescription
    • individual treatment sessions.

    Individual sessions may include gait, biomechanical and postural assessments. We may also offer electrotherapy, manual therapy, acupuncture and ergonomic advice. We provide a comprehensive, holistic treatment package to suit your needs.

    Further support

    ESCAPE pain programme

    Referral flowcharts

    Please see the referral flowchart for Kent, followed by the referral process for Medway, which is slightly different.

    Referral received and clinically triaged
    Fast track to condition specific pathway: Back/Hip/Knee One to one assessment (face to face or virtual)
    We use virtual appointments so we can see you more quickly. Face-to-face appointments are also available and this will be discussed with you at your first appointment.
    Group information session – why do I have pain, and what can be done to help me?
    Treatment options will depend on patients’ individual requirements
    Self management advice Group exercise sessions (face-to-face or virtual) 1:1 follow-up appointments (face-to-face or virtual)
    Problem resolved and/or self-management achieved.

    Discharge from service     		Onward referral to appropriate service or back to GP

    Medway and Swale pathway

    Start

    Referral received from:

    • GP
    • ACP
    • FCP
    • self-referral

    ↓

    Digital assisted triage

    ↓

    MSK triage

    From MSK triage, possible outcomes:

    Option 1: MSK physiotherapy

    • Referred to MSK physiotherapy
    • Treatment provided

    If not improving or if further care is indicated:

    • Referred to OCAS for assessment

    Option 2: Secondary care referral

    Direct referral to:

    • Orthopaedics
    • Rheumatology
    • Pain clinic

    Option 3: OCAS assessment

    Referred to OCAS.

    ↓

    Assessment

    Assessment may include:

    • imaging
    • injection
    • prescribing
    • advice
    • physical assessment

    Following assessment, possible outcomes:

    Return to MSK physiotherapy

    • Ongoing physiotherapy management

    Referral to secondary care

    • Orthopaedics
    • Rheumatology
    • Pain clinic

    Discharge

    • Episode of care completed

    Endpoint

    Patients are discharged when treatment and assessment are complete.

    How to use this service

    Who can refer?

    GPs (patients can ask their GP for a direct referral) or healthcare professionals via a written letter, standard referral form, e-referral service (ERS) or email.

    Self-referral

    Alternatively people can self-refer by completing our online MSK self-referral form or download a copy of the MSK self-referral form.

    Medway referrals

    For people living in Medway, there is a Medway self-referral form(opens in new tab). 

    Please complete the online form and it will be sent to the Medway Community Healthcare musculoskeletal triage service. 

    The aim of the triage service is to receive and screen all the referrals and direct to an appropriate physiotherapy or community orthopaedic service. Once your referral has been read and screened by a senior clinician, we will be in touch to arrange an appointment or onward referral. 

    Self-referral is only for those aged 16 and over. We do not accept referrals for neurological or respiratory issues. 

    Please note, we can only accept one referral for one body part. If you have pain in multiple areas you need to consult your GP. 

    This is not an emergency service and so if you have any serious issues please contact 111 or your GP. 

    Physiotherapy is provided by a number of different providers who offer appointments across Medway and Swale. Please indicate on the form if you have a preference of who you would like to see.

    Medway locations

    City Way Health Clinic
    Fort Pitt House Rochester New Road, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1DX 

    City Way Health Clinic Rainham
    Rainham 105 Station Road, Rainham, ME8 7SE 

    City Way Health Clinic Hoo
    The Windmill, Ratcliffe Highway, Hoo, Rochester, ME3 8QB 

    Cora Health Keystone Medical Centre
    Keystone Medical Centre, Gun Lane, Strood 

    Cora Health Woodlands Family Practice
    Gillingham, Woodlands Road, Kent ME7 2BU 

    Rochester Healthy Living Centre
    Delce Road, Rochester, ME1 2EL 

    MCH House
    Bailey Drive, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0PZ (The sat nav postcode is ME8 0WG) 

    ourZone
    Pattens Lane, Rochester, Kent, ME1 2RB 

    Parkwood Health Centre
    Long Catlis Road, Parkwood, Rainham, Kent, ME8 9PR 

    Lordswood Healthy Living Centre
    Sultan Road, Chatham, Kent, ME5 8TJ 

    Walter Brice Centre
    Tilley Close, Hoo, Rochester, Kent, ME3 9AE 

    Swale locations

    Ektra Green Porch Medical Centre
    Green Porch Close, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 2HA 

    Sheppey Community Hospital
    Sheppey Plover Road, Minster, Sheerness, Kent, ME10 3LT 

    Kessons The Physiotherapy Centre
    The Coach House, 39b High Street, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 4AW 

    Meads Medical Centre
    29 Quartz Way, The Meads, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 5AA 

    Om Medical Centre
    Sheppey 50 Wood Street, Sheerness, ME12 1UA 

    Activating your e-referral

    You will need to activate your e-referral form online(opens in new tab).

    This form  tells us you have been referred to our services by your GP, for the physiotherapy, orthopaedics, rheumatology, pain and Clinical Assessment Service (CAS). In order for the Adult Therapies Service to see your referral we require the Unique Booking Reference to allow us to triage your referral, which may require a referral to a provider other than Medway Community Healthcare. 

    Once you have submitted this form, you do not need to call us, we will triage your form and determine which pathway best suits your needs. Once the form has been triaged you will be contacted by the administration team to book an appointment.

    Paper self-referral form

    You can fill in your details on the Medway MSK physiotherapy paper self-referral form(opens in new tab).

    Watch our Medway referral process video

    What happens next?

    We process your referral and will contact you, either by phone, letter or email to arrange your initial assessment.

    We may ask you to provide us with more information about yourself and your condition prior to your appointment.

    Your appointment

    You may be offered a virtual or face to face appointment, which could be either in an individual or group setting. Virtual consultations and group settings have been proven to be an effective way of receiving and delivery physiotherapy.

    Phone consultations

    Your physiotherapist will phone you within the agreed time slot and will ask you questions regarding your problem. You will be asked to complete some movements in order to determine what you are able to do and where your symptoms are coming from. They will be able to explain your problem along with providing exercises and advice on how to manage it. You will be called from a withheld or unknown number.

    Video consultations

    Video consultations are very similar to the phone consultations; your physiotherapist will be able to see you, watch you move and demonstrate your exercises. You will need a laptop, tablet or smartphone with the web camera and microphone enabled.

    Face-to-face appointments

    Your physiotherapist will be able to complete a physical assessment including testing your strength and movement. They can also offer treatments such as manual therapy or acupuncture.

    If there is no longer a clinical need for you to be seen face-to-face, you may be offered a virtual appointment.

    You may be seen by:

    • qualified physiotherapist
    • supervised physiotherapy student
    • physiotherapy assistant.

    Physiotherapy careers

    Are you, or someone you know, interested in becoming a physiotherapist?

    Here are some useful links to provide more information about the profession and what you need to do to access training.

    Self-management information for patients

    You may find these contain helpful advice, including exercise suggestions, which you could try while waiting for your first physiotherapy appointment.

    Upper limb pain (including shoulder)

    A selection of shoulder pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A tool to help you make decisions about managing your shoulder pain with self care.

    A selection of elbow pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A selection of hand pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    Lower limb pain

    A selection of hip pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A tool to support you to make decisions about managing your hip arthritis.

    A selection of knee pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A tool to support you to make decisions about managing your knee arthritis.

    ESCAPE pain programme – an education and exercise programme for people with knee or hip pain. This can be accessed in person via our service.

    Or online at ESCAPE-pain – An evidence-based group rehabilitation programme for people with chronic joint pain

    A selection of ankle pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A selection of foot pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    Back pain

    A selection of back pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    A tool to help you make decisions about managing your back pain.

    Videos of exercises suitable for people with back pain.

    Information about when to seek urgent help for your back pain.

    Written information in English and a variety of other languages.

    Neck pain

    A selection of neck pain leaflets and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

    General pain advice

    A short educational video explaining pain in layman’s terms

    Health and wellbeing advice

    Physical health

    Local service offering support and advice to enable healthier, connected people and communities.

    Local service offering advice around activity, weight loss, smoking, lifestyle and general health checks.

    Mental health

    Information about poor mental health, tips for self management and links to support services.

    Local mental health support.

    Keeping active

    Advice and tips on getting active including the “Couch to 5k” and “Active 10k” programmes.

    A selection exercise videos including aerobic exercises, strength and resistance exercises, yoga and pilates.

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    94%

    Friends and Family test (FFT) question - percentage of positive responses

    (Survey feedback from April to June 2026)

    Your comments

    Previous Next

    August 2026
    Aylesford

    The short waiting time between self-referral and first appointment was great. The physiotherapist listened to my symptoms and came up with a manageable plan to help to reduce my pain levels.

    July 2026
    Sevenoaks

    I was always treated as an individual. The tailored exercises were brilliant and have allowed me to move towards full recovery.

    June 2026
    Aylesford

    The physio was outstanding in how they treated me. They listened to my concerns and were very supportive towards the problem with my shoulder.

    April 2026
    QMVH, Herne Bay

    Physiotherapist was knowledgeable and explained things easily to understand. Showed a real interest and made me and my daughter feel important and listened to.

    March 2026
    Aylesford

    Friendly staff. The physiotherapist is very good and patient with me. They explain all the exercises I need to do. Most of all, they make me feel comfortable.

    February 2026
    Folkestone

    I felt relaxed immediately. The therapist explained everything to me in detail and gave me the confidence to try out some of the activities. I am looking forward to joining the group and I feel very positive about things.

    January 2026
    Dover

    Appointment was on time. The physiotherapist is excellent. Very thorough, helpful and explains everything well. They are also very reassuring. I always leave this appointment reassured and confident.

    December 2025
    Deal

    The physiotherapist was friendly, reassuring and understanding. They gave me advice and were keen to help me feel more in control of my condition. I am confident they will help me heal.

    November 2025
    Aylesford

    Very good service provided by physiotherapist, in a clear and professional manner. They understood my needs and offered advice and ongoing assistance.

    October 2025
    Tonbridge Cottage Hospital

    I couldn't have asked for anything more. I felt listened to, respected and I am completely happy with the service .

    September 2025
    Broadstairs Health Centre

    The physiotherapy was very knowledgeable. I felt they really located my problem and gave superb advice and treatment, to hopefully help me to recover. It is handy to have access to videos of the recommended exercises, to ensure they are carried out correctly. Overall, very impressed.

    August 2025
    Folkestone

    The initial meeting was good. The clinician took time to ask questions and examine my troubled joints.

    August 2025
    Dover

    The physio was very professional, informative and listened to my questions, giving great answers. I feel the care they gave was excellent and the forward plan sounds great.

    August 2025
    Tunbridge Wells

    The physiotherapist is excellent, very knowledgeable and understood my issues. Extremely helpful.

    August 2025
    Aylesford

    The physiotherapist was very clear, had a good manner and effective exercises set with a follow up.

    July 2025
    Aylesford

    Professional team, focusing on supporting me to understand how and why I suffer back problems. Informative slide show and talk prior to undertaking exercise class. Staff supervise the class well, they are approachable, helpful and supportive.

    June 2025
    Broadstairs

    Caring and empathic as always. A good listener, I felt valued as a patient.

    December 2024
    Tunbridge Wells

    The physio knew what they were doing and introduced me to more and more exercises as the sessions progressed. They were all tailored to my needs and progress.

    November 2024
    Gravesham

    I was treated with care and given exercises that helped my condition. I was listened to and all my questions were answered.

    October 2024
    Deal

    Support tailored to my needs at a pace that fits with my lifestyle for long term, to prevent future issues. My questions were answered fully and explained clearly.

    September 2024
    Sevenoaks

    The person who called me was very thorough and friendly, explaining everything as we went through the assessment.

    August 2024
    Sevenoaks hospital

    Exercises were set to meet my individual needs. These where gradually adapted as the weeks went on. I felt I was well taken care of and looked after. I really enjoyed these six weeks.

    July 2024
    Aylesford

    Kind, competent and compassionate practitioner, who listened to my concerns and gave excellent advice.

    June 2024
    Sevenoaks

    The therapists are kind, thoughtful and helpful, offering support and encouragement. I think the group session works very well and is very effective.

    May 2024
    Tonbridge Cottage hospital

    The two physiotherapists were knowledgeable, professional and friendly. The exercises were well explained and monitored. I definitely benefited from attending this group event - thank you.

    April 2024
    Broadstairs

    Really positive, really listened to me and explained everything. Made me feel that I could be helped and felt everything was explained so well to me.

    March 2024
    Aylesford

    My physiotherapist was just super! Listened to everything I was concerned about, gave me great advice and gave me hope that someone is there to help me.

    February 2024
    Victoria hospital, Deal

    Engaging and helpful staff who explained everything perfectly. A good workout with different types of apparatus. It was explained how we could help ourselves by doing many of the exercises at home.

    January 2024
    Aylesford

    They really took their time with you to make sure you understand everything that is going on. They gave me a steroid injection which I was pretty nervous about, however made sure I was really at ease with it all. I always come out of there feeling listened to, educated and with hope that my shoulder will get better.

    May 2023
    Sevenoaks hospital

    Brilliant, staff were knowledgeable and were there to help and advise.

    May 2023
    Dover Health centre

    Have been given exercises to help me carry on and the confidence to get me back to work. The physio was good.

    May 2023
    Westview hospital, Tenterden

    Everything was brilliant, given lots of information and didn't need to ask any questions.

    May 2023
    Royal Victoria hospital, Folkestone

    Very helpful and caring staff, there to help if needed and also fully talked things through and explained all the exercises.

    May 2023
    St Stephens Health centre, Ashford

    She was very helpful and informative and very assuring there was no waiting to be seen very quickly.

    May 2023
    Victoria hospital, Deal

    Appointment was timely and the physiotherapist (Alex) was very good and clear throughout the session.