The physiotherapy service at St Clare’s Hospice offers a range of services to those in-patients, out-patients and day care guests, who have a life limiting illness.
 
Our physiotherapist aims to improve patient’s quality of life regardless of diagnosis or prognosis by helping them achieve their maximum potential of functional ability and independence and gain relief from distressing symptoms. Physiotherapy can provide people with a sense of control over their own lives, helping them manage changes or loss.
 
  
Symptoms which can be managed with physiotherapy include:
-          Pain
-          Breathlessness
-          Fatigue
-          Anxiety
-          Nausea
-          Decreased muscle strength and exercise tolerance
-          Decreased joint integrity and range of movement
-          Reduced mobility and transfers.
 
Following assessment our physiotherapist offers interventions including:
 
-          Individual treatment plans to meet patients needs
-          Individual and Group Exercise Programmes
-          Strengthening and Stretching Programmes
-          Therapeutic soft tissue mobilization
-          Moving and Handling advice
-          Assessment and provision of specialist equipment: aids and adaptations
-          Breathlessness Management (non – pharmacological approach)
-          Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation ( TENS)
-          Pain Management
-          Relaxation and Anxiety Management
-          Patient and carer Education
-          Energy Conservation Strategies/ pacing/fatigue management
-          Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
-          Acupuncture
-          Tai Chi
 
How can I access the Physiotherapy Service?
 
Patients already known to the Hospice as either and in-patient or day care guest are referred to the service by St Clare’s nursing staff. Patients who are not known to the hospice, but are able to attend on an out-patient basis, can be referred by any health or social care professional involved in their care. Referral forms are available on the hospice web site.
 
For more information please contact Physiotherapist, Michelle Ball on 0191 4516378