LUPUS: A GP Guide to Diagnosis
Chartered Physiotherapists are able to offer assessment strategies for specific problems along with the more general features associated with chronic illness and many lupus patients will benefit from receiving one or more of the various treatments that can be provided, thereby increasing their activity and quality of life.
Physiotherapists approach lupus as a multisystem disease affecting many tissues and organ systems and will provide/suggest the correct treatment/exercise plan for the individual patient.
The aims of the Physiotherapist caring for a lupus patient will be to provide:
Many lupus patients will require not only direct treatment but also assistance in developing and testing self-management skills so that they can cope with their daily lives which may include being in a work situation as well as at home and taking part in leisure activities.
The Physiotherapist can often liaise with the Occupational Therapist in giving the patient advice and providing such items as working/resting splints and equipment/aids which may be necessary both in the home and at work.
A variety of methods are available to help lupus patients, ranging from manual therapies i.e. joint exercises, to electrical equipment to assist pain relief and reduce the effects of inflammation. Hydrotherapy, where available, can also be of help in exercising muscles and joints when pain and stiffness are causing difficulties in movement. Some Physiotherapists are also skilled in helping patients to manage anxiety and stress through relaxation and other complementary practices including acupuncture.
General Practitioners should consider referring lupus patients to the Physiotherapy Department at the local hospital (or health centre) where the assistance that is available may well help with the management of the patients' symptoms.
Clive Liles MA, MCSP, Dip.TP, Cert. Ed, SRP
Physiotherapy Tutor
School of Physiotherapy
The University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham, B15 2TT