Outpatient Frequently Asked Questions

What outpatient physiotherapy services does St. Luke’s Hospital provide?

An outpatient physiotherapy service is offered to any patient attending St. Luke’s Hospital with a problem related to their cancer or its treatment.   We provide specialised treatment to people with:

  • Pain, weakness, loss of movement as a result of their cancer or cancer treatment e.g. shoulder stiffness and soreness after breast surgery.
  • Neurological Impairment. 
  • Balance and co-ordination problems that lead to difficulties in walking and daily activities.
  • Loss of fitness and ability to carry out their normal day to day activities.  This ranges from resuming gentle exercise through to planning for return to work.
  • Respiratory conditions e.g. breathlessness, infection.
  • Recurrent falls or risk of falling.

In addition we work with patients, their families and carers, offering support, advice and instruction, in how best to achieve their individual goals.

We also offer Physiotherapy to patients with chronic pain as part of the St. Luke’s Hospital Pain Service.

How do I access the outpatient physiotherapy service?

  • You will need a written referral from your doctor in St. Luke's Hospital, to access Physiotherapy services. Waiting list times vary.
  • If you feel you need Physiotherapy, and have not yet been referred, mention it the next time you see your doctor.

How long will I have to wait for my first appointment?

The actual appointment waiting time may vary from a few days to a few weeks depending on the nature your condition and department workloads.

What should I do if I need to cancel my appointment?

If you need to cancel or change your outpatient physiotherapy appointment, do try to give at least 24 hours notice, so that we can offer that time to another patient, and give you a more suitable appointment time.
You can contact us by telephone @  01 - 4065031 . An answering machine operates when we are out of the department and outside of working hours. Please clearly leave your name, a contact number and a message.

What if I am late for my appointment?

If you are running late for your appointment please try to call us @ telephone No:  01 – 4065031 .
When late for your physiotherapy appointment we will try to spend as much treatment time with you as possible. However, your appointment time may unfortunately have to be cut short, cancelled or rearranged.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes.  You may be asked to remove some clothing so that the physiotherapist can examine you.

Do I need to bring anything else to an out patient physiotherapy appointment?

If you are being treated for a lower back or leg problem it may be helpful to bring a pair shorts for the purpose of assessment and exercise.
If a Physiotherapist has previously given you a list of exercises, bring it with you, along with a list of any medications you are taking.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

At your first appointment the physiotherapist will assess you and advise you on how many treatments you may need.

How long will my appointment last?

  • Outpatient appointments normally last between 3/4 hour and 1 hour.

What should I do on arrival?

  • At present there is no check-in desk for Physiotherapy, so please take a seat outside the department until your physiotherapist is ready to see you.
  • If your physiotherapist has not met you by 5 minutes into your appointment time please knock on the department door and another member of staff if present may by able to contact your physiotherapist.