In this section
Physiotherapy including hydrotherapy
The York rheumatology physiotherapy team consists of two static and two rotational staff and is based in the main outpatient physiotherapy department.
The physiotherapist role in rheumatology is to help patients improve and maintain their daily activities and mobility by increasing their joint movement and strengthening muscles that have been affected by their arthritis.
At your first appointment the physiotherapist will ask you questions and examine the joints you're finding painful.
This assessment will lead to the therapist devising an individual treatment programme, which may include:
A home exercise programme for affected joints and weak muscles
Pain-relief treatments e.g. acupuncture, TENS, advice on home pain relief
A walking assessment and provision of walking aids
General advice on managing your arthritis, pacing activities, improving general fitness
Hydrotherapy or exercise in water
Fibromyalgia physiotherapy and occupational therapy group
Rheumatoid arthritis physiotherapy and occupational therapy group