KCHT’s army of physiotherapists are ready and waiting to get you on the mend. Each year, our 34 teams across the county treat more than 25,000 patients.
Osteoarthri
tis was crippling Clifford Hazel, but thanks to one of our musculoskeletal physiotherapists, the 76-year-old now has a smile on his face and is able to get around more easily.
Not only did Clifford, of Tankerton, have five physiotherapy sessions at Whitstable and Tankerton Hospital; he also had five sessions of acupuncture too – at physiotherapist Rebecca Hyman’s recommendation.
Clifford said: “I was having physiotherapy when Rebecca suggested acupuncture may also benefit me. I was terribly nervous before my first session, but Rebecca made me feel really at ease.’’
The pensioner has osteoarthritis in both hips and that was making the pain in his back unbearable.
Clifford said: “I cannot speak highly enough of Rebecca, she was absolutely top class. It has eased the pain considerably and I am very grateful.’’
The physiotherapy team at Whitstable and Tankerton Hospital is one of a number of musculoskeletal teams in east Kent.
The Kent-wide Physiotherapy Service provides a range of treatments, for people aged 16-years-old and over, including selfmanagement, exercise groups or individual treatment sessions led by a physiotherapist or instructor. Specialist physiotherapy practitioners may also offer injection therapy and referral to diagnostics such as x-ray.
All patients, on their first appointment, have a detailed assessment with one of our skilled physiotherapists.
Individual sessions may include pre and post-operative rehabilitation, for example total knee replacements, gait, biomechanical assessment, postural assessment and awareness, exercise prescription, electrotherapy, mobilisation and manipulation techniques and acupuncture. Hydrotherapy, which is water-based exercise, takes place at the Churchill Centre in Maidstone and the pool at Sevenoaks Hospital.
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Service Manager Pramod Selkar said: “We run clinics in many locations, so there is very likely to be one near you if you need treatment for a musculoskeletal problem, which can cause pain and discomfort and make you feel generally unwell. Patients can usually find one of our clinics within five to seven miles of their home.’’
The service works hard to make sure waiting lists are kept as low as possible.
Last year, for example, in response to demand, a second clinic opened at Broadstairs Health Centre.
The service generally accepts referrals from GPs, consultants and other healthcare professionals, but in some parts of east Kent you can refer yourself. To do this, you will need a form which is available from your GP practice. For more information, please phone our Customer Care Team on 0300 123 1807.