Learning Disabilities

Providing personalised support to adults with a learning disability throughout the physiotherapy assessment and treatment process.

Adults with a learning disability have difficulty in learning and understanding information and may also present with an associated physical disability. For those with a physical disability physiotherapy is vital to maximise function and prevent unnecessary deterioration. However, those without a physical disability may also need to access physiotherapy during their life time for example if they require rehabilitation following a fracture or joint replacement.

Adults with a learning disability can have difficulty communicating and interacting with other people and this can make it difficult for them to engage with health professionals including physiotherapists. Therefore, it is vital that they have access to a physiotherapist who has the specialist skills and the time to facilitate engagement by adapting assessment and treatment techniques to meet their individual needs.