5 key Factors in determining the success or failure of your physio treatment program

Over the past 15 years practicing as a local physiotherapist, I have discovered through clinical experience 5 critical key factors which determine the success or failure of your physiotherapy treatment program. I would like to share them to all my prospective and existing patients as being aware of these can help increase the likelihood of the success of your physiotherapy treatment program at Acland Street Physiotherapy, at the very least!

The 5 critical key factors which determine the success or failure of your physiotherapy treatment program are:
1. Ensure you do as much research as you can about the physiotherapist you are considering to book in with. Unlike a GP, you will likely spend a lot more time with your physiotherapist so it is important that you will likely get along. Questions to consider include:

• Is their physiotherapy approach aligned with your personal beliefs and values?
• Will you get along with them?
• Is the language they use easy to understand and on your same wave length as you?

2. Try to maintain a positive and open mind even if you have had negative experiences with other physiotherapists and related practitioners. Physiotherapists have a tendency to assess and treat the same condition differently. The old saying that "there is more than one way to skin the cat" applies to physiotherapy services. Some clinicians have more confidence and experience in one area than another with certain conditions.
3. Work in collaboration with your physiotherapist to discuss your health goals, treatment options and timeframes. The physiotherapist should explain what treatment options will likely resolve the condition for you, and it is completely up to you on whether you feel comfortable about pursuing one or more options. There needs to be a clear plan in place to make treatment work for you.
4. Be prepared to do work. There is only so much benefit "hands on" passive treatment the physiotherapist can provide you as part of your recovery journey. It is arguably more critical that you actually complete the home exercise program the physiotherapist recommends for you to do. The physiotherapist should be designing a program that is realistic to you, and very well integrated into your lifestyle.
5. You should feel comfortable and not hesitate to communicate with the physiotherapist about your treatment program and any concerns outside the walls of the consult room. At Acland Street Physiotherapy, we encourage our patients to email the physiotherapist in between consultations, and on occasion, the conversation may be escalated to a phone call or an appointment if deemed necessary.