Detailed Musculoskeletal Assessment

A musculoskeletal assessment is a structured clinical examination of how your joints, muscles and nerves move, load and respond to provocation. It is the first step before any treatment begins.

We combine your medical history, posture and gait observation, joint range, manual muscle testing, special tests and functional screens. The aim is to identify the source of pain, not just its location, and to set realistic goals together.

• Long-standing or recurrent pain that has not been clearly diagnosed
• Movement loss after injury, surgery or prolonged rest
• Posture-related neck, mid-back or low-back complaints
• Repetitive strain from desk work, gym training or running
• Recurrent ankle sprains, knee giving-way or shoulder catching
• Pre-participation screening for sport or return-to-work

1. ConversationWe listen first — onset, behaviour of pain, aggravating and easing factors, prior treatment, and your goals.
2. ObservationPosture, gait and resting alignment. Often the body tells a story before any test is run.
3. Movement TestingActive range, passive range, strength and joint-specific special tests for the region of concern.
4. Functional ScreenHow the issue shows up in the activity that matters to you — sitting, lifting, climbing stairs, running.
5. Plan & DiscussionWe share findings in plain language and agree on a treatment approach with a clear timeline.

The first visit typically runs 45–60 minutes. Wear comfortable clothing that allows the affected area to be visible. There is no manipulation in this session unless you consent.

A single comprehensive session, with a written summary. Re-assessment after every 4–6 treatments to track progress objectively.

Acute fractures, undiagnosed red-flag symptoms (unexplained weight loss, fever with back pain, recent trauma) — your physiotherapist will assess suitability and refer onward where needed.

• MPT-MSK led — every assessment is performed by the lead physiotherapist, not a junior
• Specialised focus on temporomandibular joint and spinal pain
• Findings are written down and explained, not kept to ourselves