What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a health care profession which uses movement and exercise therapy to maximise physical recovery following an illness or injury. Physiotherapy aims to empower the patient with skills they need to recover from injury or maintain independence during disease.
What is neurological physiotherapy?
Neurological physiotherapy is involved in maximising recovery after an injury to the nervous system. The nervous system is made up from the central nervous system (CNS) which includes the brain and spinal cord and the peripheral nervous system which involves the extensive network of nerves outside of the CNS.
Principally a neurological physiotherapist will aim to slow and reduce the movement disorders associated with disease e.g. Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. Or increase independence and function following a traumatic incident e.g. stroke or spinal cord injury. The aim of neurological physiotherapy is to maximise independence and reduce the need for care.
What should I wear during my physiotherapy treatment?
We recommend that you wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes to allow for assessment as well as exercise therapy. Also, please wear flat, supportive footwear with a good grip, to allow for safe mobility and exercise.
How often will I have physiotherapy?
This will be decided by your physiotherapist and you and will be discussed as part of your treatment plan. Treatment goals will be set and reviewed regularly. Your physiotherapy sessions can take place on the ward, as well as in the physiotherapy gym.
What do I need to do to get the most out of my rehabilitation?
We ask that you take an active role in your rehabilitation. This means attending your physiotherapy sessions, participating in goal setting and following any recommendations made by your physiotherapist. We will typically give you an exercise programme, tailored to your ability, to perform on the ward outside of your physiotherapy sessions.
Will my family/carer be involved in my rehabilitation?
Your family/carer can often play a key role in your progress during rehabilitation. With your consent, we will involve your family/carer in your rehabilitation. This may involve your family/carer attending the gym occasionally during your physiotherapy sessions. We may also ask your family/carer to assist you with your exercise programme or to help you practice your walking on the ward.