1. Be patient centered / focused

Patient centered does not always mean doing everything that the patient says, it means making them an active participant in their treatment but also still being guided by the totality of the evidence.

We can synthesize this evidence and use our clinical expertise to provide an individualized plan based on the patient’s values and their circumstances.

If you want to learn more about this topic, you can watch Marc Surdyka lecture here:

Click here

2. Be a facilitator not a fixer

According to Louis Gifford patients want four questions answered:

• What is wrong with me?
• How long will it take to resolve?
• What can I do for myself?
• What can you do for me?

Therefore we need to set realistic expectations with them. We might base that on the research and their presentation and previous patients that you’ve seen or other patients that you’re seeing. But being realistic with that, creating a plan together, asking for feedback along the way and making sure that there’s communication and collaboration and not just education. You’re not just telling the person what to do, not just providing them a handout, but having an open and honest conversation.

3. Admit uncertainty

We should admit uncertainty to the patient and to ourselves when necessary. We won’t always have all the answers and the sooner we realise it, the faster we will be able to help our patients. It’s okay to ask for help. Referring out doesn’t just mean referring out to a different healthcare provider, but it could be to another physical therapist if they are more appropriate for the patient.

4. Start simple

Before you start treating the patient ask yourself this question, If your patient was only going to do one thing, what would you recommend and why? Can you answer those questions with all of your patients? Simple exercises when done consistently can provide a great result.

If you want to learn more about this topic, you can watch Marc Surdyka lecture here:

Click here

Sources:

1. 'Simplifying the foot and ankle’ lecture by Marc Surdyka