Patients across the Harrogate District can now seek quicker advice on their aches and pains thanks to a new website developed by physiotherapists.

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust and Harrogate and Rural District Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are working together to provide patients with information and resources on musculoskeletal (MSK) pain prior to their physiotherapy appointment as part of the Harrogate Health Hub website, complementing the advice offered to patients at hospital appointments.

The website provides information on all musculoskeletal pain, including; neck, back, shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand, hip, knee and ankle/foot. It also offers pain advice as well as health messages on stopping smoking, healthy lifestyles and local weight loss help. Patients can access the self-help information at home as a way to start their rehabilitation, meaning quicker resolutions and management for their aches and pains.

The website has been started by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust physiotherapists, and is the first port of call for musculoskeletal advice for patients referred by GPs across the Harrogate District. Patients can access a wide range of resources, including; general advice, infographics, exercise videos and downloadable sheets to help them find a quicker resolution.

Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Matt Halpin started the website along with colleagues. He said: “It’s fantastic that we’re able to provide resources on managing musculoskeletal pain to patients across the Harrogate District.

“The quicker someone is able to commence rehab after an injury or episode of pain, the better their outcome. The website allows them to access self-help advice and information straight away, meaning they can get help quicker. The information we’re providing will complement the advice we offer patients at hospital appointments, and patients can be assured the information available via the website is from a reliable source direct from their local NHS services.”

Bruce Willoughby, GP and Harrogate and Rural District Clinical Commissioning Group Governing Body Member, said: “The new website is great news for patients. It will enable people to get reliable information quickly to help manage musculoskeletal conditions and help them maintain their health and wellbeing.”

To find out more and get advice for your pain, visit www.harrogatehealthhub.co.uk.