Physiotherapy Department

The department is staffed by qualified physiotherapy specialists, general physiotherapists, and PG students. The Physiotherapy Department at the National Heart Institute provides both inpatient and outpatient physiotherapy services to its patients.

What is physiotherapy?

• assessing, treating and preventing human movement disorders
• restoring normal function or minimising dysfunction in adults and children with physical impairment, to enable them to achieve the highest possible level of independence in their lives
• preventing recurring injuries and disability in the workplace, at home, or during recreational activities
• promoting public health for all age groups

Physiotherapists strive to improve an individual’s total quality of life by physical means. A combination of education, manipulative therapy, splinting, movement training, exercise, respiratory techniques and other physical and electrotherapeutic agents are used to achieve this. The approach is always research based and we are committed to providing you high quality assessment and treatments.

When to consult a Physiotherapist ?

Best results are obtained if a person is seen as soon as possible after an injury or the onset of a disease process to minimize any disabling effects and to expedite quicker recovery. In the case of chronic or progressive illnesses, the aim is to maximize physical function and improve quality of life.

Physiotherapists provide assessment and treatment in a range of situations and conditions including but not limited to musculoskeletal dysfunction such as fractures, soft tissue injuries, back or neck pain, inflammatory disorders, etc; acute and chronic pain, stress incontinence, neurological disorders, respiratory disorders, post heart attack for exercise and education, and immobility due to ageing or disease.

The doctors of physiotherapy make the consultation and the diagnosis for the patient's aliment and prescribe physiotherapeutic treatment. Patients are managed pre and post cardiac surgery, in the intensive care units and as inpatients and outpatients of the cardiology unit. Physiotherapy has a role in the assessment and management of respiratory diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, bronchiectasis, emphysema, etc. Stroke, Parkinsons Disease and other neurological and orthopaedic conditions are also dealt. Physiotherapy role includes:

• Respiratory care of the mechanically ventilated and non-ventilated patients.
• Passive range of movement exercises progressing to active exercise.
• Mobilization of mechanically ventilated and non-ventilated patients.
• Neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation
• Treatment of musculo-skeletal conditions including management of pain and orthopaedic conditions.
• Exercises to counter the effects of bed rest and gradual increase in walking distance and speed.
• Walking program to increase exercise capacity.
• Education as to the benefits of regular exercise, in reducing the risks of Coronary Artery Disease, and how to exercise safely.
• Daily assessment of the patient's respiratory and mobility status and treatment is implemented as required for post-op patients.
• Patients are instructed in and assisted with llimb and breathing exercises and with gradual progression of walking distance
• A stair test prior to discharge for cardiac surgical patients, PTCA patients, etc.
• Prescription of home exercise

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Physiotherapists are involved in two phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation.

• 1. Phase 1: Inpatient management
• 2. Phase 2: Outpatient exercise prescription

Facilities Available

• Heating Pad,
• Cryotherapy (Ice-therapy)
• Paraffin Wax Bath,
• Infra-red Ray therapy,
• Short-wave diathermy,
• Ultrasound therapy,
• Electronic Cervical and Lumbar Traction,
• Muscle Stimulator,
• Static cycle,
• IFT,
• TENS,
• Pulley.

• Exercise therapy,
• Joint mobilization,
• Soft tissue mobilization,
• Gait analysis and gait training.
• Orthotics/ splinting,
• Fitness consultation,
• Ergonomic advice.