When
to seek emergency care
When to seek medical or emergency care
Online physiotherapy can assess most muscle, joint, and nerve problems. However, some symptoms need urgent medical care or an in-person medical review before physiotherapy is appropriate.
This page explains when you should go to the hospital, when to see your GP, and when online physiotherapy isn’t the right first step.
When to go to the hospital
Online physiotherapy cannot replace emergency medical care.
If you have any of the symptoms below, go to A&E or call 999 immediately:
chest pain
difficulty breathing
sudden severe pain
signs of a stroke or seizure
heavy bleeding
a serious injury or loss of movement
signs of a blood clot (for example, a hot, swollen calf)
any situation that feels urgent or unsafe
If you’re unsure, call NHS 111 for advice.
If it feels like an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.
For more guidance: NHS When to go to A&E
When to see a GP before physiotherapy
Some situations need a medical assessment before physiotherapy. Contact your GP if you experience:
a recent accident or fall where a fracture or internal injury is possible
new or worsening symptoms after a surgery
muscle aches linked to illness, especially when they feel unusual
chest or abdominal discomfort
pain that does not come from muscles, joints, or soft tissues
Your GP can arrange tests, imaging, medication, or further medical review when needed. Physiotherapy can still help once medical conditions have been ruled out or managed.
When online physiotherapy is not suitable
You may need in-person assessment instead of online physiotherapy if:
you are unable to stand or move in a way that allows safe online assessment
swelling, bruising, or deformity suggests an injury requiring hands-on examination
your symptoms relate to dizziness, balance issues, or conditions that need specialist neurological tests
you prefer a face-to-face examination rather than video-based guidance
If you are unsure, you can still book an appointment and your physiotherapist will advise the safest next step.
If physiotherapy is not appropriate, we guide you onward
If your symptoms require urgent care, a GP review, or imaging, your physiotherapist will:
explain why
advise where to go
tell you what to expect
provide a referral letter if appropriate