Empowering Primary Care: James Underwood Leads the Way in Patient Education on Knee Osteoarthritis
At Primary Care Physio, we’re committed to showcasing how our clinicians go beyond routine consultations to support patient empowerment, reduce GP workload, and lead improvements in long-term condition management. A fantastic example of this is the work of James Underwood, one of our experienced First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs), currently working with The Bridge Primary Care Network (PCN).
James has taken the initiative to co-produce a patient education resource focused on Knee Osteoarthritis, in close collaboration with the wider clinical team at The Bridge PCN. His work demonstrates the leadership that FCPs can bring to primary care - not only empowering patients in the self-management of their symptoms but also enhancing the knowledge, skills and confidence of other clinicians across the system.
Breaking Down Myths and Promoting Holistic Care
James’s presentation takes a myth-busting, evidence-informed approach to knee osteoarthritis. Drawing on his clinical experience, current research, and ‘making a decision about knee osteoarthritis’ national guidelines, he challenges misconceptions and beliefs and facilitates a more helpful and proactive approach to managing this common condition.
Key messages include:
- The importance of staying active and avoiding unnecessary imaging
- A focus on strengthening, pacing, and weight management
- A holistic whole-person, biopsychosocial approach to care
- Emphasis on patient empowerment and supported self-management
This resource is already proving valuable for both clinicians and patients, providing a shared understanding of how knee osteoarthritis can be effectively managed in primary care without immediate escalation to secondary services.
FCPs as Clinical Leaders in Primary Care
James’s contribution is a clear example of how FCPs are more than just MSK clinicians. They are clinical educators, collaborators, and service innovators. By co-developing resources like this, FCPs contribute to:
- Reducing GP appointments for MSK-related issues
- Improving patient confidence and self-management
- Enhancing MDT working and shared clinical decision-making
- Increasing capacity within general practice
James is employed through Primary Care Physio, the UK’s largest provider of FCP services, supporting over 200 PCNs nationwide. Our team of over 370 clinicians deliver more than 1 million MSK appointments every year - helping PCNs meet growing demand while improving quality and continuity of care
A Resource for Patients and Professionals
The presentation - clear, concise, and easy to understand - offers a model for other PCNs and practices looking to improve education around osteoarthritis and similar long-term conditions.
🎥 Watch James's full presentation here.
Supporting the Future of Primary Care
Primary Care Physio remains committed to working in partnership with PCNs to deliver services that add tangible value - not just to patients, but to the wider practice team and healthcare system.
Initiatives like this reflect how FCPs, when supported and empowered, can play a vital role in reshaping how chronic MSK conditions are managed in the community and the system wide benefits achieved of the right advice and care at the front door of care.