What does the Surgery and Paediatric Physiotherapy team do?
The Physiotherapy service for Surgery and Paediatrics provides physiotherapy services to inpatients of the surgical and paediatric units at Addenbrooke’s. Patients are assessed by a physiotherapist when they are admitted to the ward and again when they are referred to other services. For example these patients can have respiratory (breathing) and motor (movement) problems, which can be helped by physiotherapy. Specialised respiratory techniques are used to help patients maintain and/or improve their breathing, which can prevent chest complications such as infections. Exercises are used to maximise mobility and help the patient regain their independence. Appropriate walking aids (such as crutches) can be provided, and instructions in their use given. We stop providing services only when we consider that the patient has reached their maximum recovery or when treatment is no longer indicated.
