Physiotherapy

Our team of physiotherapists and therapy support workers provide physiotherapy services in our hospitals and in the community.

We assess, treat and provide advice and education to patients, their families and their carers if you have an injury, illness or disability. We will work with you to manage pain, help your recovery, maximise independence and prevent you from unnecessarily having to attend or come back into hospital.

We know how important it is for you to keep as much independence as possible, whether that means being able to manage your activities of daily living, go to work or get back in your own home. We will do our best to help you.

You will normally be referred to us by your GP, consultant, nurse, or allied health professional.

Your physiotherapy treatment may include:

• exercises
• hands on therapy
• equipment provision
• acupuncture

The superb treatment I have had has allowed me to return to work. I didn’t think this would be possible.The staff were always willing to go the extra mile for me.

We will involve you in your care by providing you with education and awareness of ways you can help.

Community and domiciliary therapy will be provided for patients who are either unable to attend outpatient clinics or in instances where it is more appropriate to provide their therapy in either their home or other community settings such as nursing or residential homes.

An emergency on-call service is available on both of our hospital sites. This service is available out of hours seven days a week.

Physiotherapy outpatients

We have appointments available on several weekday evenings until 7pm.  All clinics operate on an appointment only basis.  Initial appointments will last between 30 and 45 minutes. Follow up appointments will last between 15 and 30 minutes.

It is best to wear loose comfortable clothing. You may be asked to undress to show the part of the body that is causing you the problem; however a chaperone can be arranged if you require. If you have a leg or back problem please bring a pair of shorts. If you have a shoulder, neck or upper arm problem please bring or wear a loose fitting vest or top.

To get the most from your treatment you will need to follow the advice given by your physiotherapist and continue your exercises at home.

Some of the equipment and machines used in the physiotherapy department send out electrical waves that can interfere with pacemakers and hearing aids. You must tell your physiotherapist before entering the treatment room if you:

• have a pacemaker
• have a hearing aid
• are pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Making a referral

Your GP or health care professionals from different specialties can make referrals to the physiotherapy service.

Referrals for physiotherapy outpatient appointments and community services will be accepted either electronically or in paper format.

Health professionals should phone our single point of access on 01429 522500 to make a referral for the community, stroke and intermediate care services.

Useful links

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy Works