The Winchester Health Clinic is launching new aquatic physiotherapy classes for 2022, aimed at getting individuals with lower limb or back pain back on track doing the jobs or hobbies that they love.
The Clinic - set up by the University of Winchester to provide high-quality physiotherapy assessment and treatment to the local community - is based in the Winchester Sport and Leisure Park at Bar End. The new aquatic physiotherapy classes will be taught in the hydrotherapy pool close to the Clinic's treatment rooms.
"Aquatic physiotherapy classes use water to help build strength and movement that might not be possible on land," said Clinic Manager Liam Newton.
"They are ideal for people looking to get a head start with their rehabilitation following an operation or perhaps those wanting to maximise their function prior to an upcoming operation, as well as those struggling with discomfort in land-based exercises."
The classes will be taught by a mix of students on the University's BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree programme on placement at the Clinic as part of their studies, working closely alongside Health and Care Professions Council-accredited (HCPC) Physiotherapy practitioners.
Since it opened on 1 September 2021, the Clinic has seen over 130 patients. When they book, patients can choose whether they wish to see a qualified physiotherapist or a student supervised by an attending HCPC-accredited practitioner.
Liam Newton said: "Being part of the University of Winchester means we can take advantage of support from Physiotherapy students in the Clinic, who are supervised by an experienced physiotherapist.
"Feedback from patients shows they have enjoyed the extra time and attention they have received from students. They have also found being exposed to more clinical reasoning - the decision making process and thinking of a physiotherapist - and discussion between the students and the experienced physiotherapist very positive because it enables them to learn more about their condition."
The University's three-year BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree programme is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. The course curriculum is developed in collaboration with clinical staff, including the Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which works with the University on education and research activities as part of a strategic partnership. Practical elements of the programme are taught at state-of-the-art facilities in Winchester High Street.
The first course of aquatic physiotherapy begins on Friday 11 February between 11am and 12pm at a cost of £32 for four sessions. To get the most from the course, participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions if possible, but individual needs can be accommodated.
To book please head to the Winchester Health Clinic website at www.winchester-health.co.uk or email winchesterhealthclinic@winchester.ac.uk.
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