Rheumatology Physiotherapy / Hydrotherapy
Level 1
Torbay Hospital
Lowes Bridge
Torquay TQ2 7AA
Phone: 01803 655345
Email: Rheumatology Physiotherapy
Opening times:
- Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 4pm
- Friday, 8:30am to 12:30pm
The rheumatology and hydrotherapy services are two distinct services provided by the same physiotherapy staff. Although the team covers both areas, most rheumatology patients do not require hydrotherapy treatment.
Rheumatology outpatients
We offer specialist outpatient physiotherapy for rheumatology patients, working closely with the wider healthcare team. We support patients with a wide range of rheumatological conditions, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Other inflammatory conditions
- Soft tissue disorders
- Musculoskeletal disorders causing widespread movement problems or pain
Our physiotherapists work across a variety of locations within Torbay Hospital, including the dedicated ankylosing spondylitis clinic. We work with you to help overcome the challenges of your condition and develop individual exercise programmes based on a detailed assessment of your goals and progress.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a specialised form of exercise in water that takes place within our department. It is entirely separate from our standard outpatient work.
To access this service, you must be referred by your physiotherapist. They will assess whether water-based treatment is suitable for you and explain how the treatment works. You should already have ongoing land-based exercises and a clear plan in place before starting.
A specialist physiotherapist will review your progress during your first pool session and create your treatment plan. Most subsequent sessions are managed and progressed by our team of hydrotherapy assistants. Managing our service this way helps us minimise waiting times, though we do operate a short waiting list.