MSK OPD

MSK OPD taught me how to complete thorough assessments in a timely manner and how to prescribe suitable exercises to patients/ clients to alleviate any aggravating or limiting factors of their daily lives.

In addition to individual exercise prescriptions, I have delivered group exercise classes to patients/ clients suffering from general deconditioning as well as hypermobility syndrome- all in which were similarly structured to gymnastics classes I plan and deliver. I have also been involved with hydrotherapy treatments for patients/ clients who were deemed suitable and safe to participate.

Next, having experienced treating patients/ clients alongside the Occupational Health Department, this  reinforced my belief that a patient's/ client's presenting condition can have other complications alongside pain and discomfort, such as financial struggles due to difficulties at work. As a result the whole person should be treated holistically and not be reduced to their presenting condition.

Working 1-to-1 with a patient/ client has allowed me to define what physiotherapy means to me. Firstly, the "physio" component of physiotherapy is anything associated with the body i.e. presenting conditions and treatment modalities, whereas the "therapy" side is anything associated with normal human interaction i.e. conversational skills and a degree of empathy and understanding. Looking at my healthcare profession this way has allowed me to always look for the bigger picture and results in patient centred and holistic care being delivered.