Physiotherapy  

There are two part time Macmillan physiotherapists working as part of the Hospice Multi Disciplinary Team. They aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with a cancer diagnosis or palliative care needs. They offer out patient appointments and also work in Day Therapy, In-patients and in the local community.

They work along side the patient to help identify realistic goals and use a problem solving approach to enable them to be achieved.

They use a variety of treatments / interventions including:

·        Exercises to increase mobility and strength

·        Passive Movements to maintain joint range and relieve discomfort

·        Strategies for coping with breathlessness

·        Strategies for improving functional activities such as climbing stairs or getting in / out of a chair.

·        Clearing chest secretions

·        Helping with pain relief by for example using massage, positioning and TNS.

·        Teaching patients how to manage swollen limbs.

·        Advising patients and staff and carers on manual handling issues

·        Helping to arrange safe discharge home.

Referrals will be accepted from any health professional, patient relative or carer. Referrals can be made directly by contacting the Hospice Physiotherapy Department, Mon to Fri, 8.30am to 5pm.

When referrals are received from patients, their carers or relatives, contact will always be made (with the patients consent) with the patients General Practitioner and any other relevant Health Care Professionals to obtain clinical information.

For further information please contact: Liz Hassey or Jann Smith, Macmillan Physiotherapists, on 01282 440127 or 01282 440100