NHS Lothian Integrated Shoulder & Elbow Service aims to provide a person-centred, safe and quality service for people with shoulder and elbow issues. 

The service uses patient pathways to provide appropriate care and seamless transition between the key services involved. 

These services include:

• Physiotherapy
• Shoulder & Elbow Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioners
• Orthopaedics
• Radiology

Most people will initially see a Physiotherapist.  A few people will see one of our Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioners (APP).  They are specialists who can arrange investigation and work closely with Orthopaedic Consultants.  Very few people with shoulder or elbow pain require an operation. A small number of people may need to be seen by the other services above.  The team can arrange referral for you as required. 

This leaflet provides a written guide about the service:   NHS Lothian Integrated Shoulder and Elbow Service – A Guide for Patients