Physiotherapy

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is currently working towards raising the standards of care and support for people with muscular dystrophy and related conditions across the UK. There are more than 60 different neuromuscular conditions and we believe that a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary service is required to meet patients' needs.

At the reception the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign published Focus on Physio a report revealing that patients with chronic conditions are being denied access to ongoing physiotherapy by the NHS.

Following a Freedom of Information request and a survey of patients, Building on the Foundations: Focus on Physio, reveals:  

• many patients with neuromuscular conditions do not receive continuous, specialist physiotherapy or any physiotherapy at all; Two out of three PCTs fail to provide ongoing physiotherapy for patients where required;  
• one in five NHS Trusts and PCTs fail to provide financial support to physiotherapists to attend training courses in neuromuscular conditions despite the NHS’s commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD);  
• almost two out of three Trusts say they do not have any physiotherapists with specific training in neuromuscular conditions;  
• the situation is particularly difficult for young adults making the transition to adult services – their current physiotherapy is often immediately withdrawn as soon as they turn 18 years-old; 
• specialist physiotherapy services are vulnerable where they rely on charitable sector funding.

Although Becker Muscular Dystrophy is not curable Physiotherapy can help to prolong mobility. There are a number of muscle centres around the UK but as I live in Manchester I receive my Physiotherapy at the NMC in Winsford Cheshire. A similar centre is due to open in Newcastle .

The Neuromuscular Centre situated in Winsford Cheshire is for everyone within the region directly or indirectly affected by Muscular Dystrophy, there is a full physiotherapy service available by appointment. They have a team of Chartered Physiotherapists who specialise in the management of neuromuscular conditions.

Keeping active is an important part of maintaining muscle strength and the centre is where I attend to receive my Physiotherapy –Tim

Goto the Physiotheraphy page at the NMC