21 January 2025
How a Simple Footstool is Transforming Patient Care
At Southampton Hospitals, we know that sometimes the smallest things can have the greatest impact. In our orthopedic ward, one such item is making a world of difference for our patients: the humble footstool.
For patients recovering from injuries or surgeries, being able to sit upright is more than just a comfort—it’s an essential part of their recovery.
Therapy Technical Instructor, Priscilla explains, “When patients have had surgery, we need to get them sitting upright as it helps improve their blood flow, which is vital for healing. But it’s not always easy for them to do this without support.”
That’s where footstools come in. With their help, patients can sit upright more comfortably, and the benefits go far beyond blood flow. Natasha, a patient, shares how a footstool changed her recovery experience: “A few weeks ago, after my leg accident, it was so painful, but the footstool helped relieve a lot of my pain and enabled me to sit upright. This also helped me a lot with my digestive system and my asthma. The footstool gave me the freedom to sit up rather than being stuck in bed with more complications.”
Thanks to the incredible support of our donors, Southampton Hospitals Charity has funded footstools for each bay in the ward, as well as the side rooms. This small investment has had a big impact, not only speeding up patient recovery but also saving valuable time for our hardworking physiotherapists.
Major Trauma Physiotherapist, Sally Sheppard said, “These footstools allow us to focus more on providing care, rather than finding makeshift solutions for patients who can’t sit upright. It’s such a simple thing, but the difference it makes is huge.”
Help Us Do More
Your donations make stories like Natasha’s possible. By supporting Southampton Hospitals Charity, you’re not just funding equipment—you’re giving patients the tools they need to recover faster and regain their independence.
If you’d like to help us continue making a difference, please consider donating today. Together, we can ensure every patient has the support they need.