Physiotherapy

At St Rose’s, physiotherapy is an important part of students’ lives. Our experienced physiotherapy team works with students throughout the day, providing high-quality care. We offer a holistic approach, including programmes, individual and group sessions, and work closely with school, college and care staff to maximise the benefits of therapy.

Physiotherapy may take place in classrooms, residential areas, our specialised physio spaces, hydrotherapy pool or on the trampoline. We host wheelchair clinics alongside NHS colleagues. Our physiotherapists provide training to staff, parents and carers as needed. We offer a range of carefully planned support to improve students’ well-being and maximise their learning.

Physiotherapy may include:
• Postural management
• Pain management
• Aquatic Therapy
• Rebound Therapy
• Stretching and standing programmes
• Improving functional skills
• Gait re-education
• Respiratory health support

AQUATIC

Aquatic therapy may form part of a student’s physiotherapy provision.
Our pool has been designed to ensure the comfort, safety and dignity of each user. Students can enter the pool directly from the changing rooms using the overhead hoisting. The water is kept at approximately 33 degrees which enables students to relax and maintain their body temperature.
Students change the multi-sensory lights by using floating switches giving them choices and control. The jacuzzi provides a fun, stimulating element to a treatment session. Parents and carers are encouraged to come and watch a session, some choosing to come into the water to improve their confidence in handling and supporting their young person in the water.
Benefits of Aquatic Therapy are vast; students really enjoy their increased independence and freedom from equipment. Aquatic Therapy is delivered with a high ratio of student to staff to ensure that our complex students receive the best care and opportunities to maximise independence.

REBOUND

Rebound Therapy is led by the physiotherapy team who have specialised training in this area. It may be incorporated into the student’s physiotherapy programme or delivered as a separate therapy depending on the student’s needs. The physiotherapists help to devise programmes that can be delivered by any staff who have participated in additional accredited training for Rebound Therapy. Goals are set alongside other physical, sensory or learning goals. Rebound Therapy can be offered during the school day, at after-school clubs and open weekends.
Rebound Therapy has many benefits including:
• Developing postural awareness in many different positions
• Relaxation
• Enjoyment
• Improving muscle strength and endurance
• Following instructions and practising communication skills
• As a sensory activity
• Improving cardiovascular fitness
• Improving core strength
• Working with other students
• Experience freedom of movement
• A sense of achievement