Physiotherapy after hospital discharge or illness

You may be finding it harder to get out of a chair, walk between rooms, manage steps or return to your usual routine after time in hospital or reduced activity during an illness. The starting point is what you can currently manage and what matters to you, rather than a standard exercise programme.

This service is different from rehabilitation after a specific operation. If you have had surgery, your surgical team's restrictions and plan guide care. If your main need relates to a neurological or respiratory condition, tell us before booking so the appropriate service and clinician can be considered.

• Changes in walking, strength or movement confidence after illness.
• Difficulty with usual daily movements following a hospital stay.
• A rehabilitation plan that needs putting into practice in your home environment.

We discuss your admission or illness, medical history, discharge information and any existing exercises or care instructions. Assessment may include how you move in bed, stand up or walk with your usual aid, depending on what is appropriate and safe for you.

Together, you agree realistic priorities and how to review progress. This may involve suitable movement practice, exercises, advice on pacing activity and discussion of support between visits. With your agreement, a relative or carer can join to understand the plan. The assessment may also identify a need for medical review, equipment advice from another service or a different rehabilitation specialist.

The treatment address can be different from the patient's usual address. Enter the place where the visit will happen and tell us about access, stairs, a lift, parking restrictions or help needed to take part. Please do not try an unfamiliar movement just to prepare for the appointment.

Choose the mobility-and-balance option in the home-booking journey to check your visit address and appointment options, or ask us about suitability first. Booking for a relative does not give access to their clinical information; their agreement and any appropriate decision-making arrangements still matter.

The home-visit information page explains current self-pay arrangements and insurance checks. If you plan to use private medical insurance or a health cash plan, confirm home-treatment cover and the treating physiotherapist before booking. A hospital discharge or a clinic's insurer recognition does not by itself establish cover for a home visit.