Hodge Jones & Allen: How Physiotherapy can benefit spinal injury patients

Physiotherapists work closely with spinal consultants, doctors, nurses and occupational therapists to assist in the rehabilitation process after a patient has suffered a spinal injury.  The main aim is to try and restore movement, whether this is partial or full movement.  Physiotherapy treatment can give patients a goal and focus and can in some cases help with building confidence after a patient has suffered an unfortunate spinal injury.

Physiotherapists tend to assist after a patient has had an operation.  A plan can be devised depending on the individual’s needs and requirements to help restore some form of mobility.  This can include help with the following:-

• Exercise plans
• Help with getting into an out of bed to assist a carer. 
• Help transferring from a chair to a vehicle.
• Help with walking.
• Help managing stairs.

Physiotherapy treatment can be ongoing for a long period of time.  It is important to find a physiotherapist you can trust and build a relationship with.  Physiotherapy treatment is available on both the NHS and privately.

There are a number of different forms of physiotherapy which can include: 

• Pain Management
• Bed mobility
• Standing programme/body weight support treadmills.
• Hydrotherapy and swimming programmes.
• Sports and gyms.
• Frames and wheel chairs to assist.  
• Exercise bikes.

If you have suffered a spinal injury as a result of an accident and you are pursuing a personal injury claim, physiotherapy treatment can often be arranged privately.  Insurance Companies can offer this under the Rehabilitation Code (Code of Best Practice on Rehabilitation, Early Intervention and Medical Treatment in Personal Injury claims).

Karen Mann (Solicitor) at Hodge Jones and Allen Solicitor

http://www.hja.net/