Inside The World Of Physiotherapy: Uncovering The Role Of a Senior Physiotherapist
11 Sept, 20241-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- The career path of a Senior Physiotherapist.
- How the physiotherapy field has evolved.
- Challenges facing the physiotherapy field.
- Where the latest Physiotherapist jobs are and how to apply for them.
Interested in pursuing a career as a Physiotherapist? Keen to know more about the role of a Physiotherapist behind closed doors?
We recently had the opportunity to speak to a dedicated Senior Physiotherapist, Nivea Thomas, to discover more about her current role, what changes she would like to see within the physiotherapy field and what motivated her to pursue a career as a Physiotherapist.
Physiotherapists play a key role in helping individuals relieve pain, regain mobility and achieve a better quality of life which makes this such a rewarding career choice.
Nivea discusses everything aspiring Physiotherapists need to know from the challenges facing the physiotherapy profession to staying up to date on the latest treatments and techniques.
Tell us about your career journey
I began my professional journey in neurorehabilitation at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability in Putney. During my time in this role, I gained extensive experience in 24-hour postural management, complex spasticity management and stroke rehabilitation.
Alongside clinical expertise, I developed key non-clinical skills such as supervision, leadership, student and peer teaching and led MDT (multidisciplinary team) meetings.
Encouraged by my Team Lead, I began taking on more complex cases in the absence of senior colleagues, which prepared me for a senior role. I also managed the ward and allocated caseloads to team members, mentoring Therapy Assistants and students with guidance of my supervisors.
After gaining substantial experience, I successfully applied for and secured a Senior Physiotherapist position in the NHS Trust, where I continue to advance my career in neurorehabilitation.
What are the differences between your role as a Senior Physiotherapist now compared to when you first started in this field?
As a Senior Physiotherapist, my role has expanded far beyond what it was when I first started. Initially, my focus was on building clinical skills and managing a basic caseload under supervision.
I’m now responsible for covering the caseload and managing the ward in the absence of the lead, mentoring junior staff and students and playing a key role in complex patient discharges.
I’m actively involved in MDT meetings and provide guidance on safeguarding issues. In addition to my clinical duties, I ensure that protocols and trust values are adhered to, serving as a role model for junior staff.
Being able to guide and support them as they navigate their early careers is a significant and rewarding part of my role as a Senior Physiotherapist.
What motivated you to pursue a career in physiotherapy?
I was initially motivated to pursue a career in physiotherapy when my uncle suggested it as a potential path. As I researched the field, I became fascinated by the irreplaceable role Physiotherapists play in managing complex neuro and cardiopulmonary conditions.
The idea of helping patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life was incredibly appealing. Additionally, the dynamic nature of sports physiotherapy also attracted me, offering a blend of hands-on care and the chance to work with athletes. This combination of factors solidified my decision to become a Physiotherapist.
How do you stay updated on the latest physiotherapy techniques and treatments?
I stay updated on the latest physiotherapy techniques and treatments through a combination of continuous learning and professional engagement. I regularly attend workshops, conferences and webinars to learn about new developments in the field.
I also subscribe to leading physiotherapy journals and follow relevant research to keep abreast of emerging evidence-based practices. Networking with colleagues and participating in professional forums or groups allows me to exchange knowledge and experiences.
Additionally, I engage in regular professional development courses and training sessions to refine my skills and ensure that my practice aligns with the latest advancements in physiotherapy.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their career in physiotherapy?
I would say embrace every opportunity to learn, whether it’s from senior colleagues, patients or continuing education courses. The more you absorb, the better equipped you’ll be to handle diverse cases.
Physiotherapy is an ever-evolving field, so stay curious and keep up with the latest research and treatment methods. This will help you stay ahead and provide the best care to your patients.
Progress can be slow, both in terms of patient recovery and career advancement. Stay patient, persistent and dedicated to your practice.
How has the field of physiotherapy changed since you began your career and where do you see it heading in the next 5-10 years?
Since I began my career in physiotherapy, the field has undergone significant changes. There’s been a notable shift towards evidence-based practice, with a stronger emphasis on integrating research findings into clinical decision-making.
Technology has also advanced dramatically with the introduction of telehealth services, virtual reality for rehabilitation and digital tools for patient monitoring, making treatment more accessible and efficient.
Moreover, there is now greater recognition of the importance of holistic approaches that consider patients' mental and emotional wellbeing alongside their physical health.
Looking ahead, I see physiotherapy continuing to evolve, particularly with advancements in technology and personalised medicine.
We can expect further integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve treatment outcomes and patient management.
Additionally, as the global population ages, there will likely be an increasing demand for physiotherapy services in managing chronic conditions and enhancing mobility.
What are the most significant challenges facing the physiotherapy profession today?
Navigating varying regulations and standards across different regions can complicate practice, especially for Physiotherapists working in multiple jurisdictions or transitioning between countries.
Many Physiotherapists also experience relatively low salaries compared to other professions, which can affect employee satisfaction and retention in the field.
What has been the most unexpected aspect of your career as a Senior Physiotherapist?
The most unexpected aspect of my career as a Senior Physiotherapist has been the significant emphasis on leadership and mentorship. I initially anticipated that my role would focus primarily on clinical practice and patient care.
However, I've found that a large part of my job involves guiding and supporting junior staff and students, facilitating MDT meetings and contributing to service improvement initiatives.
This shift has allowed me to develop skills in supervision and management that I hadn't fully anticipated and it has been incredibly rewarding to see the growth and development of those I mentor.
Additionally, the diverse range of complex cases I encounter has continually challenged me to expand my knowledge and adapt my approaches, making each day in this role uniquely fulfilling and dynamic.
If you could change one thing about the profession, what would it be and why?
If I could change one thing about the physiotherapy profession, it would be the recognition and compensation levels for Physiotherapists.
Despite the critical role we play in patient care and rehabilitation, many Physiotherapists experience relatively low pay compared to other healthcare professionals with similar levels of education and responsibility.
Increasing recognition of our expertise and contributions would not only enhance job satisfaction but also attract more individuals to the profession. Improved compensation would reflect the value we bring to the healthcare system, ultimately benefiting patients through better access to quality physiotherapy services.
This change could also help address workforce shortages and improve retention rates, ensuring that we continue to provide high-quality care to those who need it.
Physiotherapist jobs
If you’re searching for your next Physiotherapist job, why not take a look at the latest vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available.
Struggling to recruit Physiotherapists?
As healthcare recruitment specialists, we support local authorities and private sector businesses nationwide with their temporary, interim and permanent recruitment needs.
If you’re struggling to fill a Physiotherapist vacancy, why not get in touch with our healthcare specialist, Kaylah Henderson on 01772 954200 to see how we can help?
Share your experience
Every individual brings a unique set of experiences, thoughts and insights to the table. We believe in giving a voice to a community of professionals to inspire positive change and champion reform in the healthcare sector.
If you work in the healthcare sector and would like to share your own personal and professional experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Perhaps you have a different perspective, could offer a fresh angle, or want to challenge assumptions.
Simply reach out to our Head of Content, Nicole Sherwood, to discuss a collaboration which makes your voice count.
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