What can I do to help myself?

Your physiotherapist can provide you with information, leaflets and guidance about your condition and how to manage it better.  Being informed about your condition allows you to make informed decisions, feel more in control and enjoy a better quality of life.  There are a number of websites with useful information about different conditions: 

• Cancer – The Macmillan website has a lot of useful information about self-help and support. The website allows you to find support that is available near where you live.  The website offers detailed information about specific types of cancer.
   
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease) – Self management can be very useful for people living with COPD or other chronic lung conditions. General information about COPD can be found here. You can find out what support is available to you locally here. Information on how to manage your condition can be found here.
   
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – A wide range of information can be found on the MS Society website. The MS society also offer a free phone MS helpline line (0808 800 8000).
   
• Motor Neurone Disease (MND) – Support and information for people living with and caring for someone with MND can be accessed on the MND Scotland website. 
   
• Pulmonary Fibrosis – Support and useful information for people who have been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis can be accessed here. There is also a helpline on this website, and a search function to find support in your area.
   

The physiotherapy team will give you as much information as you wish to receive about self management and ways to continue to maintain your health when you go home (or stop attending physiotherapy). We regularly refer people to the Move More exercise programme (for people with cancer) or the Active for Life programme (for people with a variety of other conditions, telephone: 01382 432333).