Information and resources to help you get the most out of your appointment when we see you.
We are continue to experience a high volume of referrals that means people are waiting longer than usual for their first appointment. Whilst our waiting times are continually improving, and are quicker than the current national average, we apologise for the delays. We have created this page to support you whilst you wait for your first appointment.
Thank you for taking the time to read this page on our website that aims to give you more information on a Group Consultation. You are probably reading this having already been booked into a Group Consultation or, because your clinician has discussed them with you following your consultation and advised that you may benefit from attending one.
Please take two-minutes to watch the below video to learn more about what to expect within a Group Consultation. When you have finished the video, there is some more information underneath that tells you what to expect from a Group Consultation with Connect Health.
Watch our video for advice on how you can manage your condition whilst you wait for your appointment.
Is there anything I can do whilst I am waiting?
It is not unusual for musculoskeletal aches or pains to flare up and they often gradually recover over 12-weeks without any treatment. In general, it is best to try to stay in work, stay active, and to continue activities that you enjoy.
- Your local pharmacist can give you advice about simple pain medication you can try.
- Many people find heat or ice helpful for reducing pain. Ensure you use a barrier between the skin and the heat or cold source, for example, a tea towel, and use for no longer than 15-20 minutes.
- You can view our resources to optimise your health whilst you wait by visiting the link below.
- If you are suffering with pain it is usually safe to start gentle exercise. We recommended doing whatever exercise you enjoy (e.g. swimming, attending the gym, yoga), the more regularly the better.
- If your pain is manageable during or after the exercise then please continue to progress the amount you do.
- If your joint pain is significantly worse or the joint swells after exercising, please stop doing them and wait for your appointment.
For even more information and resources to help you wait well, please see here:
Take a look at our resources
If your symptoms are related to other joints you can find information and resources at
Information and resources for other joints
What symptoms require me to seek urgent medical attention from my GP?
Sometimes new aches and pains are related to more serious medical illnesses. If you have any of the following symptoms, and have not already done so, please discuss with your GP as soon as possible.
New fever.
Feeling generally unwell or excessively fatigued.
Unexplained weight loss.
Unremitting night pain (pain you can’t ease).
Growing lumps or bumps that your GP is unaware of.
Significant physical trauma – e.g. a fall.
Suicidal ideation – thoughts and plans to end your life.
If you have back pain and new symptoms related to your bladder or bowel function, please read this document and if you are uncertain on what to do, call NHS 111.
New symptoms
Take a look at our resources
Got a question about your appointment? Take a look at our FAQs
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