Most new muscle, joint or bone problems start to improve within 6 weeks with simple self‑care. If your symptoms began less than 6 weeks ago, you can find helpful advice and exercises here. If you’re still not improving after 6 weeks, please continue with your self‑referral using the link below.
Phio works best if you have a problem with just ONE BODY PART.
If more than one area is bothering you, it’s better to contact your GP surgery, who can arrange for you to see an FCP (First Contact Physiotherapist) or a GP first. Using Phio for more than one area often leads to confusion – for you and us – so is not our recommended pathway.
Phio is an online assessment tool that helps patients refer themselves to their local Circle MSK service for support with muscle, joint, or bone problems.
- You can use Phio anytime, day or night.
- The assessment takes about 25–30 minutes to complete.
Important: Phio is not available for patients in South and West Hertfordshire.
Phio will ask questions about you and your symptoms – please complete and submit the referral as we can’t see partly completed forms.
Based on your answers, you will get one of these outcomes:
- Phio sends your referral to your local Circle MSK service (this is most common). Click here to find out what to expect next.
- Phio guides you to another service if the MSK service is not right for your condition, or if your answers raise any health concerns:
- You’re asked to see your GP – if your answers suggest something needs further checks or may not be an MSK problem
- You’re asked to call NHS 111 – if your answers suggest you should be assessed quickly
- You’re asked to go to A&E – if your answers suggest you need urgent care (this is very rare but important.
