REHABILITATION:
People may undergo periods of inactivity or reduced levels of activity for a variety of reasons, such as ill health, fatigue, pain, or recent fracture/injury. This may have a detrimental effect on their quality of life. The aim of rehabilitation is to try to restore the individual to their optimal level of function, so that they can lead full, active and enjoyable lives. This may be achieved by the provision of an individual patient assessment and treatment plan, which may include the strengthening of weak muscles, balance activities, exercises to improve joint range of movement, gait assessment, functional assessment, improving exercise tolerence and the prescription of appropriate walking aids and appliances to facilitate independence.
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INDIVIDUALISED EXERCISE PROGRAMMES:
We acknowledge the uniqueness of every individual. For a variety of reasons, such as a recent illness, a period of reduced activity, an injury or a fall, people may experience a reduced level of function, which impacts on their quality of life. Some patients may experience problems, with muscle weakness, joint stiffness, balance problems or pain, which can compromise the ability to lead an active life. Exercise is the most effective way to counteract the negative effects of inactivity in chronic illness. Too much rest may result in loss of function, strength, and range of motion. Therefore you are encouraged to be as physically active as possible. We offer individual assessments and tailor made exercise programmes, where appropriate, to help patients achieve their optimal level of function.
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MOBILITY ASSESSMENT:
At times, individuals undergo periods of reduced activity, which can affect their mobility, independence and therefore, their quality of life. We offer individualized mobility assessments and can prescribe appropriate mobility aids and appliances, to maximize independence and promote optimal function.
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MANAGEMENT OF BREATHLESSNESS (DYSPNOEA) AND CHEST SECRETIONS :
Breathlessness is a normal bodily reaction to exercise. However when breathlessness is present in the absence of exercise, this can limit daily activities. Breathlessness can be a frightening and distressing experience to live with. However, the physiotherapist can teach you how to control your breathing and advise you on pacing techniques which may help you to manage day to day activities. We can give advice on positions of ease to adopt when you experience breathlessness and devise individual exercise regimes, where appropriate. If you are producing phlegm (secretions), we can teach techniques to help you clear your chest and advise on coping techniques that may help you manage your breathlessness overall.
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FATIGUE MANAGEMENT:
Fatigue is a troublesome symptom that impacts adversely on an individual’s quality of life. Fatigue is characterized as an overwhelming, whole-body tiredness that is unrelated to activity. Sleep or rest does not easily relieve it. You may experience a decrease in energy and feel unable to do the things you normally do, which may reduce your enjoyment of life.
Some of the physical causes of fatigue may be reversible and can be addressed by the care team. The physiotherapist may give advice regarding the management of fatigue. This may involve giving advice on exercise and rest, tips on how to manage day to day activities, pacing techniques, coping skills or relaxation.
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LYMPHOEDEMA MANAGEMENT:
Lymphoedema is a swelling that can occur when the lymphatic system is damaged as a result of disease, surgery or radiotherapy. This condition may be successfully managed by a combination of meticulous skincare, exercise, massage and compression bandaging/hosiery. We assess each patient individually, devise a treatment programme and give advice appropriate to the unique needs of the patient.
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ANXIETY MANAGEMENT:
Patients often experience anxiety relating to their medical condition, therefore it is important to be able to cope with these anxieties and control the symptoms, in order for them to continue to lead as full a life as possible. We can teach a range of coping skills and relaxation techniques to help you manage this distressing symptom.
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ADVICE ON THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF FALLS:
The risk of falling increases as we get older. Sometimes, medical conditions or medications that you need to treat your symptoms, further increase the risk of falls by affecting balance, muscles, joints and eyesight. We can offer advice and tips on how to prevent falls and what to do in the event of a fall. We can provide information regarding individualized exercise programmes which may improve strength and balance, thereby reducing the risk of a fall.
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PATIENT/CARER ADVICE:
Patients and carers may benefit from professional support or advice, when trying to care for a loved one at home. This may include instruction on the easiest and safest ways to perform everyday tasks such as getting up from a chair, transferring from bed to chair or getting in and out of a car. We can assist by advising you accordingly and reviewing when the need arises.
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PAIN AND OTHER SYMPTOMS:
Some patients may experience pain or discomfort at times and this may be helped by passive movements, exercises or specific treatment techniques, the application of heat or the use of a TENS machine. (TENS is a non invasive treatment, which may help to alleviate some types of pain).
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