This specialist service manages the care of patients with musculoskeletal and spinal conditions - it is an extension of our previous Back Pain Service.

MATS is run by extended scope physiotherapists, who are highly specialised physiotherapists with many years' experience in musculoskeletal conditions, and have close links with all secondary care consultants in Orthopaedics and Rheumatology.

They can order investigations, list for surgery and refer to other health professionals.

This service is for:

  • Patients registered with a Swindon GP
  • Musculoskeletal patients over 16 years of age for whom conservative treatment has not worked
  • Patients with complex musculoskeletal problems
  • Patients that may be suitable for peripheral soft tissue or joint steroid injections
  • Screening of patients who may need secondary care intervention 

When patients are referred to MATS by their GP the referral will be triaged to ensure the patient is seen by the most appropriate service.

A referral can be triaged into Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, the MATS specialist physiotherapy clinic, or via Orthopaedics, Rheumatology or the Pain Management Service.

Appointments will last 30 minutes (please see What to expect).

If you have copies of any x-rays or MRI scans that have not been done at your local hospital please bring these along with you to your appointment.

Please inform the receptionist if your personal details have changed ie. Address, GP, contact numbers including mobile numbers.

Location

Great Western Hospital - Orthopaedic Department or Physiotherapy Department, Ground Floor (please see Floor plan).

Attendance policy

The MATS is very busy and we do our best to see patients as soon as possible.

Late cancellation of appointments and missed appointments mean that patients wait longer than necessary to be seen.

Patients who do not attend appointments without notice will be discharged and a letter sent back to their referrer.

You will not be offered another appointment unless your GP asks us to. 

How to cancel or change an appointment 

If you are unable to keep your appointment then please let us know as soon as possible so that your appointment can be offered to someone else.

You will also have the opportunity to discuss and receive information on you condition and how you can manage it most effectively.

Contact

Tel: 01793 605854