FInal Entry

On reflection of my initial journal entry, many of my concerns and anxieties were ungranted. The first issue was my concern about the family I stayed with- they were very welcoming and easy going so I settled in well within the first week. The second issue was my concern regarding my preparation for my placement. I feel as though I had adequately prepared for most of the tasks and presentations that I was exposed to on prac, and otherwise I had the appropriate study material to facilitate my learning.

I was indeed exposed to a wide range of physiotherapy practice. I was involved in and helped run hydrotherapy classes (in particular ante-natal post-natal/baby, and arthritis sessions), used the RTUS machine to help diagnose and train core stability, participated in and conducted Clinical Pilates classes and individual sessions on the reformer and trapeze equipment, and performed musculoskeletal Ax and Rx sessions for patients ranging from paediatric to geriatric age groups.

My prediction that I would be more of an observer in my first week was also correct. As placement progressed I was given the opportunity to perform ‘hands on’ Ax and Rx in the second week, and conduct Pilates, antenatal, and post-natal classes by the fourth and fifth week.

I was very grateful for the experiences and learning opportunities that this prac provided me with. My supervisors Emily and Craig were inspiring clinicians and such welcoming, supportive, and caring people that I could not have asked for a better prac or a more enjoyable rural experience. In particular I was thankful for the opportunity to be introduced and trained in Pilates, and realise the importance and role of core stability in treating such a wide range of conditions. I also really enjoyed the women’s health aspect of this prac, which has inspired me to consider pursuing this area of physiotherapy in the future.