The Multidisciplinary Team : Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation remains the cornerstone of treatment for patients after stroke. It is a problem solving and educational process aimed at reducing the disability and handicap experienced by someone as a result of stroke. The unique contribution of physiotherapy to the rehabilitation of individuals following stroke is the training of motor control based on an understanding of: Impairments and secondary adaptations Bio-mechanics Motor learning Exercise science Factors that influence brain reorganisation after injury

We use a problem solving approach and this is an important aspect of stroke care particularly because patients and their families present with many different problems in both the short and longer term. Problem solving is tailored to suit each individual, so that we can design specific treatment strategies that are goal-orientated for that individual. Short and long term goals are continually reassessed and reviewed.

Our treatment approach is to maximise the potential of an individual with a neurological condition by enabling them to move as efficiently as possible within their environment and therefore attain an acceptable level of function for them.

The physiotherapy department is situated in the Balfour Hospital, half way along the X-ray corridor. We are happy for arranged meetings or observed sessions with consent.

For more advice, The Stroke Association has issued a useful leaflet: Physiotherapy after stroke available for download from their website