Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at Recover Physio
You may have heard the term “MSK” physiotherapy, but what does it actually mean?
MSK stands for musculoskeletal — the system of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves that allows your body to move and function. When part of this system becomes irritated, overloaded, injured, or worn down, pain and stiffness can limit your daily life.
At Recover Physio in Norwich, musculoskeletal physiotherapy is the core of what we do. Our focus is not simply to manage symptoms, but to identify the root cause of your pain and guide you toward long-term recovery, improved movement, and restored confidence.
What Does MSK Stand For?
MSK is short for musculoskeletal. This refers to the interconnected system of:
- Muscles
- Tendons
- Ligaments
- Bones
- Joints
- Nerves
Together, this system enables posture, strength, balance, and coordinated movement.
When disruption occurs, whether through acute injury, repetitive strain, poor posture, arthritis, or degeneration, you may experience stiffness, pain, weakness, or reduced mobility. MSK physiotherapy is designed to restore normal function and reduce pain through structured rehabilitation and hands-on treatment.
What Is an MSK Physiotherapist?
An MSK physiotherapist is a clinician specifically trained in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. At Recover Physio, our therapists combine advanced knowledge of:
- Biomechanics (how the body moves)
- Anatomy
- Tissue healing
- Load management
- Pain science
We assess not only where it hurts, but why it hurts — identifying faulty movement patterns, strength imbalances, joint restrictions, or tissue overload that contribute to your symptoms. This diagnostic approach allows us to deliver targeted, evidence-based treatment rather than short-term symptom relief.
Common MSK Conditions We Treat in Norwich
Musculoskeletal problems range from sudden injuries to long-standing degenerative conditions. Common conditions treated at our Norwich clinics include:
Spinal Conditions
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Sciatica
- Disc-related pain
- Headaches related to the neck
Joint Disorders
- Hip and knee osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Shoulder pain and impingement
- Ankle instability
Upper Limb Conditions
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Frozen shoulder
Soft Tissue & Overuse Injuries
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Tendinopathies
- TMJ (jaw) dysfunction
Whether your pain started suddenly or has been building over time, early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
Why Would I Be Referred to MSK Physiotherapy?
Most people seek MSK physiotherapy when pain begins interfering with work, sport, sleep, or daily activities. You may benefit from an MSK assessment if you experience:
- Persistent back or neck pain
- Joint stiffness limiting movement
- Recurrent sports injuries
- Ongoing headaches
- A locking or painful jaw
- An old injury that never fully recovered
While GPs commonly refer patients to NHS MSK services, you can access private MSK physiotherapy in Norwich directly at Recover Physio, with no referral required.
Can I See a Private MSK Physio in Norwich?
Yes. Choosing private MSK physiotherapy means:
- Fast appointment availability
- Longer assessment times
- Direct access without referral
- Personalised rehabilitation plans
- Consistent clinician continuity
There is no need to wait on an NHS list. Our team is ready to help you begin recovery immediately.
What Happens at an MSK Assessment?
Your first appointment is comprehensive and structured.
1. The Discussion
We take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle demands, and goals.
2. Physical Examination
We assess movement patterns, strength, joint mobility, and functional tasks relevant to your daily life.
3. Your Recovery Roadmap
You’ll receive a clear diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan, outlining how we will reduce pain and restore function.
You leave with clarity, not confusion.
Common Treatments for Musculoskeletal Disorders
Our approach combines hands-on therapy with active rehabilitation to create sustainable results.
Manual Therapy
Joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Specialised Techniques
- Dry needling
- Myofascial release
- Shockwave therapy (for chronic tendon conditions)
Rehabilitation Exercise
Personalised strength and mobility programmes designed to rebuild tissue capacity and prevent recurrence. We prioritise active recovery, empowering you to take control of your progress.
Speak to a Therapist
If you’d like to discuss your symptoms, request a callback from one of our therapists, or book your initial assessment online:
Find Your Nearest Recover Physio Clinic
Book your appointment today at one of our clinics in Norwich:
Princes Street, Norwich City Centre
Our Princes Street clinic is the flagship clinic of Recover Physio, situated in the heart of Norwich city centre in Tombland.
The Nest, Holt Road
Our clinic at The Nest serves customers in Norwich and surrounding areas of North Norwich and Norfolk.
Join Hundreds of Happy Customers
Oliver is a great physio who is very knowledgeable and friendly. He was quick to diagnose my rotator cuff difficulties after a quick examination and effective massage. The series of exercises he gave me was easy to follow and very effective. After a couple of follow-up visits my shoulder recovered quickly. Thank you!James Recover Physio Client – Princes Street
My problems were well understood and explained by Callum. The advice and exercises were great in alleviating stabbing pains in my left hip and strengthening soft tissue. Now I am pain free and will keep up maintenance exercises to avoid future problems.Deidre Recover Physio Client – The Nest
Mel has been instrumental in helping me manage, and root out the cause of chronic pain I’ve been experiencing in my head and neck. Her sessions provide relief, and she has been able to point me in the direction of physical therapists who were able to refer me on to further testing and scans. I’d highly recommend seeing her to help manage your pain, she is incredibly professional and is able to provide a number of different massage therapies with academic knowledge base.Rae Recover Physio Client – Princes Street
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy FAQs
MSK stands for musculoskeletal, referring to the system of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves that support and move your body.
An MSK physiotherapist is a specialist clinician trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders using evidence-based rehabilitation and manual therapy techniques.
Your therapist will discuss your symptoms and goals, perform a physical examination, provide a diagnosis, and create a personalised treatment plan combining hands-on therapy and rehabilitation exercises.
Yes. At Recover Physio in Norwich, you can book directly without a GP referral, allowing you to begin treatment quickly and avoid delays.
This depends on the nature and severity of your condition. Many acute issues improve within 3–6 sessions, while chronic or complex conditions may require longer-term rehabilitation.