At The Physiotherapists, we’re committed to providing expert, compassionate care to everyone in our community. LGBTQ+ individuals who may face unique challenges when accessing healthcare. Whether it’s as complex as navigating post-operative recovery following gender affirmation surgery, dealing with chronic pain conditions, or you’re simply looking for help with posture, injury rehab, or strength and mobility, our at home physiotherapy service in Brighton and the surrounding areas is here for you.
In this blog, we explore how physiotherapy can support the physical and emotional health of LGBTQ+ people, the importance of safe and affirming care, and why having treatment in your own home can make all the difference.
A Safe Space Starts at Home
Healthcare settings, unfortunately, are not always welcoming. Studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to avoid medical care due to fear of discrimination or previous negative experiences. According to Stonewall’s Health Report (2018), one in seven LGBTQ+ people have avoided seeking healthcare for fear of discrimination.
By choosing in-home physiotherapy, you eliminate the anxiety of public waiting rooms, unwanted questions, or feeling like you have to explain yourself. We come to you—on your terms—with respect, professionalism, and allyship.
Physiotherapy and Gender Affirmation
For transgender and non-binary individuals, physiotherapy can play a vital role both before and after gender affirmation surgeries. Recovery requires specialised support, whether it’s helping manage scar tissue, improving posture and core stability after chest or abdominal surgery, or re-training breathing and pelvic floor function.
The changes can happen way before then with hormone treatment changing the shape of our bodies and affecting the way we move.
Some of the ways physiotherapy can support trans people include:
Pelvic health therapy for post-vaginoplasty recovery
Breathing and posture training after chest reconstruction
Pain management related to surgery or body shape changes through hormones
Strength and conditioning to support gender-affirming fitness goals
Our Brighton-based physiotherapists are trauma-aware, affirming, and experienced in adapting programmes to meet the goals of the individual—not the assumptions of others.
We’re pleased to add that our governing body CSP – The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists – Take a proactive approach on supporting LGBTQ+ patients and colleagues and produce regular updates for it’s members. Physiotherapy is thankfully a forward thinking service.
Common Physical Health Issues in the LGBTQ+ Community
The LGBTQ+ community is diverse, and so are the health concerns people face. Some issues may arise from stress, marginalisation, or lifestyle factors, while others relate to specific health journeys, such as hormone treatment or gender affirmation surgery.
Common issues include:
Chronic pain and musculoskeletal complaints (often exacerbated by minority stress)
Postural imbalances from binding or altered body mechanics
Low back pain, hip pain, and neck stiffness
Exercise-related injuries from training without proper guidance
Limited access to affirming healthcare, leading to under-treatment of injuries
Additionally, research shows that LGBTQ+ individuals may be more likely to live with:
Neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Mental health challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression)
Fatigue-related conditions (linked to chronic stress)
A 2022 article published in The Lancet Psychiatryhighlighted that trans and non-binary people are significantly more likely to be neurodivergent, particularly autistic or ADHD, and benefit from patient-centred care approaches that take these differences into account.
This is where physiotherapy—when done well—can help. We take the time to understand how your pain, movement, and goals are affected by your whole experience, not just a diagnosis.
Why Private Physiotherapy May Be the Right Fit
NHS services are vital but often overstretched—and LGBTQ+ patients may feel like they’re not fully seen. Whether it’s being misgendered, having to educate your provider about your body, or dealing with long wait times (up to 34 weeks in Brighton), the public system can be challenging to navigate.
Private physiotherapy, especially in-home care, offers:
A one-to-one, personalised experience
Treatment aligned with your gender identity and goals
Faster access to care
The comfort and safety of your own space
We proudly serve Brighton, Hove, Portslade, Shoreham, Peacehaven, and Lewes, and we’re here to make rehab and wellness accessible to everyone.
Trauma-Informed and Affirming: Our Approach
Being LGBTQ+ can come with a lifetime of managing other people’s expectations and reactions. That’s why our approach is:
Inclusive – We use your pronouns, respect your identity, and never make assumptions
Body-positive – We work with your body, not against it, and help you meet your goals
Neurodivergent-aware – We adjust communication, pacing, and sensory input based on your needs
Collaborative – You’re the expert on your experience. We bring expertise in recovery and movement and combine it with what matters most to you
From Pain Relief to Confidence
Physiotherapy isn’t just about pain relief—it’s about agency, confidence, and connection to your body. For LGBTQ+ people, especially those on gender-affirming journeys or dealing with health stigma, the impact of compassionate, skilled physiotherapy can be transformative.
Our clients have told us:
“It was the first time I felt truly listened to. They didn’t question my body or my goals. They just helped me get stronger.”
“Having physio at home meant I didn’t have to deal with awkward stares or wait for months to be seen. It made a massive difference.”
