Everything you need to know
Neurophysiotherapy, also known as neurological physiotherapy, is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on the assessment and treatment of individuals with neurological conditions, including stroke. The primary goals of neurophysiotherapy for stroke patients are to help them regain as much function and independence as possible and improve their overall quality of life.
High intensity therapy is key to regaining function after a stroke, which is why we have physiotherapists on-hand seven days a week to help you. Recovering from a stroke takes time, patience and expertise to relearn lost abilities and gain new ones.
As one of UK’s leading stroke rehab centres, our team of specialist neurological physiotherapists offer a comprehensive range of treatments in our state-of-the-art facilities, including:
• Coordination and balance re-training
• Functional activities that promote independence
• Mobility and strength training
• Improving exercise tolerance
• Normalising muscle tone
• Trunk stability & strengthening
• Gait retraining
• Hand therapy
Our physiotherapists can also be seen on an outpatient basis, so treatment doesn’t end at discharge.
Before therapy
Depending on your needs and goals, we can offer stroke physiotherapy services on an inpatient or outpatient basis. We triage all referrals to establish what will be most beneficial and help you achieve your desired outcomes to establish the best physiotherapy treatment approaches.
We provide an intensive stroke rehab package with a wide range of therapies available every day, tailored to meet your unique needs. Having intensive therapy early in your stroke recovery journey is key to reaching your full potential but can also have a great impact later in your journey, when you’re working towards a specific goal.
Every person is affected differently after suffering from a stroke. We see each patient as an individual and aim to work in partnership with you and your family to ensure the best medical care, fullest and fastest possible recovery. We promise rapid access to an expert assessment of your symptoms and a personalised treatment plan.
We are a fully accredited BUPA rehabilitation unit and are recognised by a number of insurance providers. Our multi-disciplinary stroke team is led by stroke consultants and other health care professionals who hold senior positions in London Teaching Hospitals.
When you arrive at the hospital, you will be assessed by our medical and nursing team to ensure you have the most appropriate management plan. You will then be assessed by our therapy team who will work with you to develop a tailored programme aimed at maximising your recovery and achieving your goals.
During therapy
The process begins with a thorough initial assessment of the patient’s physical and neurological condition. This assessment includes evaluating muscle strength, joint range of motion, coordination, balance, sensation, and any impairments in movement and mobility. The physiotherapist will also consider the patient’s medical history, specific stroke-related deficits, and personal goals.
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist develops an individualised treatment plan tailored to the patient’s unique individual needs and goals. The plan may be adjusted over time as the patient progresses.
Stroke patients often experience weakness, spasticity, or paralysis in one or more limbs. Neurophysiotherapy aims to improve these issues through exercises and activities that target mobility, coordination, walking ability and motor control. This may involve strength training, stretching, and functional movement training.
Stroke survivors frequently have balance and coordination problems. The physiotherapist will work on exercises and activities to enhance balance and coordination through exercise therapy, which can help reduce the risk of falls.
Many stroke survivors struggle with walking and may require assistance or adaptive devices like canes or walkers. Neurophysiotherapy includes gait training to help patients regain a functional walking pattern, improve step length and symmetry, and reduce gait abnormalities.
The physiotherapists may focus on retraining the patient in activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and grooming. This helps stroke survivors regain independence in their daily routines.
Stroke patients may experience pain or discomfort due to muscle spasticity, contractures, or joint issues. Neuro physiotherapists can employ various techniques, including manual therapy and modalities such as heat or ice, to manage pain and promote comfort.
The training with the therapists and physiotherapists takes time and practice. Although there may be much difficulty to start with, it is only through consistent practice, exercise and effective treatment that you can get rid of the pain, find the right support, and recover from this experience.
After therapy
The length of time that you’re in rehabilitation for will differ person to person. Treatment is an individualised experience. However, the current evidence shows up that most people will stay within treatment support for around six months before they notice a drastic change in their balance, pain, and walking support.
When you are ready to leave the hospital, we will support you every step of the way. We will help arrange any care, therapy and equipment you might need going forwards, by referring to your local NHS or private services. Our support doesn’t need to finish when you leave us!
All our therapy services are also available in our outpatient therapy department, and this is of great benefit to those who want to continue their rehabilitation journey.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of therapist and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.