A day in the life of an advanced physiotherapy practitioner

Today we hear from Sam, an Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioner (APP) at Practice Plus Group MSK & Spinal Service, Lincolnshire.

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“I have worked for Practice Plus Group for more than five years. Since qualifying as a physiotherapist in 2010 I have worked in London teaching hospitals, private practice and with sports teams. I have also completed post-graduate qualifications in imaging interpretation and injection therapy.

“I have undertaken 18 months of internal and external training to develop from a senior physiotherapist to an APP. I have been supported and mentored by Practice Plus Group and the consultant physiotherapist working within our service to achieve this.

“As an APP, my main role is to decide – in collaboration with my patients – what is the best course of management for their presenting problem. This involves listening to their story; asking relevant questions and conducting an appropriate physical assessment to decide how best to proceed. This may involve:

• Advice regarding physical activity and lifestyle changes
• Referral to physiotherapy,
• Further investigations (such as ordering x-rays, MRIs or ultrasound scans),
• Injection therapy, referral to our colleagues in secondary care (Orthopaedics, Rheumatology or pain services), or
• Combination of investigation and treatment options.

“I place a great emphasis on education and explanation in order to help the patient understand the nature of their problem. Doing this allows them to fully participate in managing and improving their symptoms. I enjoy the problem solving aspect of my day-to-day job and I like meeting, and hopefully helping, a variety of different people.”