Word / phrase required

 

close x

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

If you have a cough, fever or shortness of breath since returning from a category 1 or 2 risk area, phone your GP or NHS 24 (111) if your GP is closed.
If you don't have symptoms, visit NHS inform. for general advice or phone 0800 028 2816.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) Helpline

 

A person experiencing muscle, bone and joint problems

Who is the MSK Helpline for?

The Musculoskeletal (MSK) Helpline is a phone service for people experiencing symptoms of MSK disorders - such as back pain or sports injuries.

To use this service you must:

  • be aged 16 or over
  • be registered with a GP
  • live within a qualifying area

The service is only available to people that live in:

  • Ayrshire and Arran
  • the Borders
  • Dumfries and Galloway
  • Fife
  • Forth Valley
  • Grampian
  • the Highlands
  • Lanarkshire
  • Lothian
  • Tayside

If you're not eligible, but need advice about a musculoskeletal problem, speak to your GP to find out if you can refer yourself to a local MSK service.

How the MSK helpline can help

The helpline is operated by the Musculoskeletal Advice and Triage Service (MATS) and is provided by fully trained call operators, nurses and physiotherapists.

This service can help by:

  • finding out if you need to see a doctor
  • providing key information and advice to help with your problem
  • referring you to a physiotherapist or podiatrist if you need it

They can't:

  • arrange home visits - this should be arranged by your doctor
  • book and manage your physiotherapy appointments

Find out more about the MSK Helpline on NHS inform