This is a class aimed at rheumatology patients, to encourage them to take control of their own exercise regime.

The class setting fosters motivation, confidence and belief in exercises, as part of effective treatment.

Class times

Thursday, 2.00pm-4.00pm

Location

Physiotherapy Department, South Car Park, Great Western Hospital 

Referral

Once you are seen by a physiotherapist or a Rheumatology Doctor or Nurse and have been diagnosed with a rheumatology condition you can be referred into the class.

What to expect

You will attend the class once a week, for up to six weeks.

The class is led by a senior rheumatology physiotherapist and a rehabilitation assistant.

On your first session you will complete an HAQ (health assessment questionnaire) score, which is used to assess your function and limitations, and to provide an indication where you may require more physiotherapy support.

The team will also observe your blood pressure, assess how many sit-to-stand and step-ups you can complete in one minute, and your grip strength will also be assessed.

These will also be completed on your last session, to assess the improvement.

If you are still struggling after the six weeks, you can be referred to see the rheumatology physiotherapist on a one-to-one basis.

Contact

If you are having a flare-up of symptoms you can call the Rheumatology Helpline on 01793 604080.

Further information

Please see: