Written by the AccessGP Team
Muscle and joint pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare advice, particularly during the winter months. Back pain, neck stiffness, shoulder problems and knee pain often flare up in February, when activity levels are lower and recovery is slower.
Virtual physiotherapy has become an increasingly popular way to access assessment and treatment without needing to attend a clinic. This article explains what virtual physio involves, who it is suitable for, and when in-person care may still be needed.
What is virtual physiotherapy?
Virtual physiotherapy uses secure video consultations to assess, diagnose and manage musculoskeletal problems. Sessions are led by qualified physiotherapists who guide patients through movement, exercises and rehabilitation plans in real time.
During a virtual appointment, a physiotherapist may:
- Take a detailed history of symptoms
- Assess posture, movement and range of motion
- Identify likely causes of pain or stiffness
- Provide tailored exercises and advice
- Adjust treatment plans over time
The focus is on function, recovery and long-term improvement.
Conditions that work well with virtual physio
Virtual physiotherapy is particularly effective for:
- Lower back pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Knee or hip pain
- Postural problems
- Sports-related strains
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Rehabilitation after minor injury
For many people, the most important part of physiotherapy is education, movement guidance and consistency rather than hands-on treatment.
Around 1 in 5 adults in the UK experience musculoskeletal pain at any one time, making it one of the most common reasons for seeking healthcare advice.
NHS UK, Musculoskeletal conditions overview
Benefits of virtual physiotherapy
Patients often choose virtual physio because it:
- Removes travel time and waiting rooms
- Fits around work and home life
- Encourages regular follow up
- Allows exercises to be performed in your own space
- Supports early intervention rather than delay
Seeing how someone moves in their home environment can also be helpful for identifying everyday triggers and habits that contribute to pain.
When virtual physiotherapy may not be appropriate
Virtual physio is not suitable for every situation. In-person assessment may be needed if there is:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Significant weakness or numbness
- Red flag symptoms such as loss of bladder or bowel control
- Recent trauma or suspected fracture
- Failure to improve despite appropriate rehabilitation
A good service will identify these situations early and recommend further assessment.
How virtual physio fits into wider care
Virtual physiotherapy works best when it is part of a joined-up care approach. This may include:
- GP assessment for diagnosis or reassurance
- Imaging if clinically indicated
- Medication review where appropriate
- Ongoing rehabilitation and self-management
Combining these elements helps ensure symptoms are treated safely and effectively.
“Virtual physiotherapy allows us to assess movement, guide rehabilitation and support recovery in a way that fits into people’s real lives. For many musculoskeletal problems, it is not only convenient, it is clinically effective when used appropriately.“
Sonali Talwar, Lead Physiotherapist at AccessGP
How AccessGP supports virtual physiotherapy
At AccessGP, virtual physiotherapy is integrated into our broader clinical services. Patients can be referred for physiotherapy following GP assessment or access support directly where appropriate.
Our approach focuses on:
- Safe triage and assessment
- Evidence-based rehabilitation
- Clear communication between clinicians
- Helping patients understand their condition and recovery
We also provide access to educational resources through our Knowledge Base, so patients can continue learning between appointments.
A practical option for modern care
Virtual physiotherapy is not about replacing hands-on care. It is about improving access, supporting recovery and helping people manage musculoskeletal problems early and effectively.
For many patients, it offers a convenient and clinically appropriate starting point.
Key sources: AccessGP Clinical Knowledge Base; NHS UK, Physiotherapy; Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, Virtual physiotherapy guidance.