ScopeWhat video can and cannot do.
Being straightforward about the limits is what makes the rest of it trustworthy.
Well suited to online care
Persistent and recurring musculoskeletal symptoms, posture and desk-related complaints, graded return to activity after injury, post-surgical rehabilitation once the surgical team has cleared exercise, and any situation where the main need is a correct plan and consistent progression.
Education, load management and exercise progression — the components that carry most of the outcome in musculoskeletal rehabilitation — transfer to video without meaningful loss.
Needs an in-person examination
Anything requiring hands-on differential testing, palpation to localise a structure, joint mobilisation or manipulation, or physical measurement that cannot be estimated visually.
New trauma, suspected fracture, significant swelling of unclear origin, or symptoms that do not fit a mechanical pattern should be examined in person and, where appropriate, imaged.
Not appropriate at all
Emergency and red-flag presentations: severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, loss of bladder or bowel control, saddle numbness, progressive weakness, unexplained weight loss with night pain, chest pain or breathing difficulty.
These need local urgent assessment, not a scheduled video call. If any of them apply, contact your local emergency service rather than booking.
