Physiotherapy

In our hospices we offer physiotherapy to babies, children and young people aged 0-18 years (as appropriate). Many have the following symptoms as a result of their conditions and may benefit from physiotherapy:

  • Pain and/or difficulty moving
  • Altered muscle tone
  • Weakness in their muscles
  • Stiffness in their arms, legs or joints
  • Visual and/or perceptual impairment

At each hospice there is a team of registered physiotherapists who work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to support the development and delivery of individual care plans. We are flexible in our ability to provide physiotherapy as part of a short break in one of our hospices or as part of an outreach visit in the family home.

Either way, families can access expert advice and support on physiotherapy as part of a child’s ongoing care – this could include positioning (sleeping and sitting), equipment and treatment. Our team can also ensure all appropriate resources are available and liaise with other healthcare professionals involved in the care of a child or young person.

Benefits of physiotherapy in palliative care

  • Delivery of integrated care through joint working with a child’s lead physiotherapists and wider multi-disciplinary teams
  • Management of the symptoms of the varied conditions of children and young people:
    • Reduces breathing difficulties, for example shortness of breath
    • Alleviates discomfort from stiff joints, spasms and muscle pain
    • Helps prevent development of future problems
    • Helps restore or maintain physical movement and function
    • Aids pain control

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