Musculoskeletal Interface Physiotherapist

Role overview

This position sits within the Musculoskeletal (MSK) service, which supports people with musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG). The wider service includes First Contact Physiotherapists in several primary care networks, along with physiotherapy, podiatry, and the MSK Interface Service (MSKI). Its purpose is to provide prompt, high-quality care through a multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists, podiatrists, orthotists, and GPs.

The MSKI clinic functions as a specialist link between primary and secondary care, offering advanced assessment and management plans for patients who might otherwise have been referred onward to secondary care. It also provides expert advice to primary care and community services, helping shape pathways that improve both patient experience and service efficiency.

This is a band 7 Agenda for Change post within Sirona care & health and is referred to internally as an MSK Interface Physiotherapist.

Clinic setting and working pattern

The service is delivered from a range of locations: 3 sites in South Gloucestershire, 11 in Bristol, and 3 in North Somerset. MSKI physiotherapists may run clinics Monday to Friday between 8:00am and 8:00pm, excluding bank holidays, with weekend clinics also possible to improve access.

What you will do

You will carry out advanced clinical assessment and create treatment plans for patients referred from primary or secondary care, including those with complex presentations and multiple conditions.

• Perform advanced assessments, differential diagnosis, and clinical care planning.
• Request and review investigations such as blood tests, imaging, and diagnostic injections.
• Provide injection therapy when appropriate, using up-to-date evidence to guide practice.
• Talk patients through operative and non-operative options across MSK pathways including orthopaedics, neurosurgery, neurology, rheumatology, pain services, and community care.
• Support people living with persistent pain and long-term conditions through self-management and behaviour change approaches.
• Offer specialist teaching, mentoring, and support to colleagues across MSK services.
• Take part in audits, service reviews, and pathway improvement work to strengthen patient care.
• Work with MSKI networks to share evidence and promote best practice.
• Step in for the Advanced MSKI Physiotherapist when needed.
• Use strong clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, and a collaborative, person-centred approach.

Benefits and culture

Sirona care & health offers Agenda for Change pay, full NHS benefits, more than 27 days of annual leave, and membership of the NHS Pension Scheme. The organisation highlights a supportive environment that values fresh ideas, professional development, and opportunities for colleagues and apprentices.

The employer is committed to equality, inclusion, and building a workforce that reflects the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from people from all backgrounds, including those beginning a career in healthcare, looking for a new NHS challenge, or changing profession.

Contact for informal discussion

For more information or an informal conversation, contact Claire Veater, Bristol OP Lead, Musculoskeletal Interface Service, at claire.veater@nhs.net or 03001256555. You may also contact Robert Cook, North Somerset Operational Lead, Musculoskeletal Interface Service, at robert.cook3@nhs.net or 03001256555.