Our falls and syncope service investigates, diagnoses and helps patients who have experienced syncope (blackouts and/or loss of consciousness) and falls.
The service is now the largest clinical facility of its kind in Europe and the specialist team receives requests to see patients from local GPs, colleagues within our own hospitals or community services, and from other healthcare professionals from across the region and country.
Our rapid access service allows direct referrals from the North East Ambulance Service, as well as from our own emergency department.
Who do we see?
Our patients experience a wide range of problems including:
- loss of consciousness which passes quickly (transient) – particularly syncope (blackout)
- lightheadedness / pre-syncope
- other symptoms related to disordered autonomic nervous system control of heart rate and blood pressure
- falls
- dizziness
- gait and balance disorders
- vertigo.
What do we do?
All new patients undergo a series of specialist investigations to help us find out the cause of their condition and we can also assess, identify and treat risk factors for falls, blackouts, dizziness and osteoporosis. Once we know the root of the problem, you can start the right treatment or receive advice to help resolve the problem.
Therapy expertise
If it is felt appropriate for your care, you may be referred to the falls and syncope service physiotherapist.
The majority of people referred for physiotherapy will be experiencing balance problems, unsteadiness, or dizziness.
At your initial appointment the physiotherapist will ask about your experiences and will look at the movement in your joints, muscle strength, balance and walking.
Assessment
This initial assessment will take approximately 45 minutes. This helps to identify whether physiotherapy assistance is most appropriate and, if so, areas in your health that require assistance.
These can include strength and balance exercises, coping strategies in the event of any future falls, any requirements you may need at home, walking aids, and mutual goal setting.
If necessary the physiotherapist will also refer you to our occupational therapist for a home assessment to identify any assistance that can be given.
Plan of action
A plan will be agreed between yourself and the physiotherapist and a further appointment provided.
Appointments will be arranged at your pace however it is usual to be seen in clinic approximately every 4 – 6 weeks. The physiotherapist is also happy to answer any questions you may have.
Opening hours and contacts
The falls and syncope service is located within the Belsay Unit at the Campus for Ageing and Vitality (formerly Newcastle General Hospital).
The unit is open between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm.
Morning clinic runs from 9:00am until 12:30pm.
Afternoon clinic runs from 1:30 until 5:00pm.
