I’m one of those people who doesn’t do change easily. I pretend I’m easy going and flexible (but that’s in the little things like supper and clothing). Big things like how I work? Not so much. So lock down was a big thing.
I’m a Physiotherapist- I have two hands and I use them (along with other modalities) to treat people. How do I treat people without touching them?
That was me 3 weeks ago.
Bear in mind that, for the past 6 months, I’ve been listening to podcasts and lectures from around the world of Physiotherapy urging a more “Patient Led” form of rehabilitation. The Physiotherapist assesses, does some treatment, creates a programme and then monitors progress. I’ve been following this with a degree of scepticism (or so I thought).
Then came lock down.
I find myself in a situation where I have to change my work methods in a big way. No more routine face-to-face appointments. Strict screening before any contact. Online video-link assessment, prescription and follow-up were the way forward.
And I’m loving it!
Yes, I miss the contact. I miss the general banter. I miss being able to “get my thumbs in there” and release that muscle or mobilise that stiff joint, or use a myriad of other hands-on treatments I have up my sleeve.
I’m loving the way that video assessments make me look at things from a different perspective. I have to diagnose and problem-solve so that You can fix it. I have to explain what’s going on so that You can make it better.
Is is quick? No. Is it as ‘nice’ as having that muscle released or that joint mobilised? Perhaps not.
Does it work? Oh yes…
This experience of ‘online physiotherapy’ has made me a better Physiotherapist. I have a broader view of things. I trust you as a patient to be more independent of me - more capable than I previously thought.
I have come to understand that slow-and-steady can win the race. The method may not be the same but the outcome - maybe.
Online Physiotherapy. Do I want to do it forever? No.
I like being hands-on. It’s satisfying and effective but, contrary to my old belief, it’s not the only way.
I’ve been pleasantly surprised to be happy with the results of the Online Therapy. In our current lockdown situation it’s been an absolute life-line to people who would otherwise had to go to the Doctor and take more tablets.
Just goes to show… change can be good.