Are you working with the right physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are considered experts on the human body structure and its movements. They are in charge of diagnosing and managing various conditions involving the bones, muscles, nerves and other parts of the body.
Physiotherapists in Australia must first register with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency (AHPRA). Once registered, they may start working in public and private hospitals, community health care centres, and sports organisations, among others.
If a person is experiencing pain and difficulty when it comes to movement, a physiotherapist may be able to help. Because of the many factors to consider, it’s important to know what qualities to look for in a physiotherapist before hiring one. Here, we wrote down some tips to guide you.
What are the qualities to look for in a physiotherapist?
There were over 35,000 registered physiotherapists in Australia in 2021, which is why picking the right one may be challenging. It will be convenient to start by looking at facilities near where one lives. Once the options have been narrowed down, consider looking for the following qualities in a physiotherapist.
1. They should be knowledgeable in their field.
A good physiotherapist should have a lifelong learner mindset. This is because the research and science behind physiotherapy gets better and more complicated as time goes by.
The best way to stay on top of new studies and discoveries is to regularly read scholarly journals or attend seminars. A physiotherapist is in charge of correctly assessing what’s troubling their patient. This is why being knowledgeable is imperative.
2. They should be patient.
Every patient is different, not just with what ails them but even when it comes to their mood. Even when some patients are challenging, the physiotherapist should always remain calm.
Physiotherapy treatment timelines also vary with every patient. The patient’s problem, capacity, and motivation will determine this.
This is why a good physiotherapist should be understanding and patient. Both the patient and the physiotherapist will be able to see the treatment through if the latter is calm and composed.
3. A physiotherapist should remain positive.
Patients come in for a consultation with ailments and aching bodies. Regardless of what they are feeling, a positive mindset can help them go through their suffering.
Physiotherapists should also remain positive when dealing with a patient because their patient needs them. Physios should be able to care for them and treat them kindly in their time of need. There is no place for judgement in physiotherapy.
4. A physiotherapist should be professional.
No matter the situation, a physio should be able to assist their patient in a professional manner. They should remain respectful and should act with dignity.
In this line of work, following through with their word is of utmost importance. Whatever the physiotherapist says to their patient should be done accordingly and as agreed between them.
Being professional also comes in when a patient refuses to accept the proposed treatment of the physiotherapist. Yes, a physiotherapist has knowledge and is considered an expert in their field. Nevertheless, at the end of the day, it is the patient who will decide on the course of action they will take.
When this happens, a good physiotherapist should be able to accept and support the decision of the patient. Of course, a professional opinion is always welcome, but respecting their patient’s decision should be a priority as well.
An ideal physiotherapist can also work with patients from different ages and all walks of life. They are able to address and help their patients with equal respect no matter what.
5. A physiotherapist should be able to communicate properly.
Remember that physiotherapy is a joint effort between a physiotherapist and a patient. In order to achieve this, a physiotherapist should be a good listener. But they should be able to communicate well too.
Good communication is key in ensuring that both parties are aligned on the care plan. If a patient does not understand their care plan, then it’s the physiotherapist’s task to explain it to them clearly.
A good physiotherapist should be able to use clear language in explaining technical ideas. They should also be able to ask the right questions in order to further identify the needs of their patients. This way, good communication would flow both ways.
6. A physiotherapist is good with details.
Every patient will respond to treatment differently. This is where astuteness comes in handy because a physiotherapist should be able to observe properly.
They should be able to pay close attention to how their patient responds to the treatment. For example, are there improvements in their ability to move? Is there less pain in the body part they initially complained about?
A physiotherapist should pay attention to details to guide the patient in moving forward with the treatment. They should also be able to adjust their current care plan based on their observations.
A patient’s needs will evolve, and a physiotherapist with a keen eye will be able to catch this and adjust accordingly.
7. A physiotherapist should be resilient.
Physical therapy treatment is not a straight line. There will surely be ups and downs in a patient’s treatment journey.
A good physiotherapist should be able to go through the same path as the patient. They will be resilient and will not give up easily when there is an unexpected outcome.
Remember that physiotherapy is collaborative work, and having a resilient physiotherapist is crucial. The patient will lean on them for uncertainties and frustrations.
8. A physiotherapist is adaptable.
A patient may encounter different problems during treatment. They may not have the motivation to show up on the day, or the patient may have less energy compared to their last session. Sometimes, there could also be broken equipment in the facility.
These factors should not affect the mindset of a physiotherapist. In fact, a good physiotherapist should be adaptable and flexible.
No matter the situation, they should be able to adjust accordingly. They should make sure that their patients are still properly cared for despite the circumstances.
Book an appointment with some of the best physiotherapists in Newcastle.
Transcend Health follows a patient-focused and process-driven approach when it comes to treating your ailments. We have all the above qualities you are looking for in a physiotherapist. With us, you can be sure that we will be there with you every step of the way.
Call us at 02 4961 3399 to find out more or fill out the enquiry form on our online portal. You may also email us at hello@transcendhealth.com.au.