Prescribing in Physiotherapy for Pain

Prescribing in Physiotherapy for Pain: A Current and Emerging Role

Introduction

With changing demographics, higher expectations and an increase in long term conditions (Department of Health, 2012) there is an heightened pressure and demand on the NHS. To meet these demands the roles within the NHS have had to change and expand.

As recently as 2013, physiotherapists in England have been granted the right to independently prescribe, giving them the ability to prescribe drugs, including some controlled drugs. These prescriptions must be used “within the overarching framework of human movement, performance and function” (NHS England Publications, 2013)

With these new responsibilities that are becoming a part of a physiotherapist’s remit, this page looks to explore prescribing as a physiotherapist. It also looks to provide information around their scope and responsibilities for prescribing for pain that impacts specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapist’s areas of expertise.

Audience: The resource was produced for use by Band 5 physiotherapists to understand the role the profession plays in prescribing medicines. It may be of benefit to other health professionals seeking knowledge. A case study will be included with a self assessment section, which can be used to check understanding after each section''

Abbreviations