Education

While on placement at a rural hospital a patient came to see me in the outpatient department regarding pain involving the entire arm and shoulder. On examination the patient showed signs of ulnar nerve sensitization such as positive neural tissue provocation tests and pain in the distribution of the ulnar nerve. I performed lateral glides to the appropriate cervical spinal segments. I briefly explained the pathology behind the pain and explained it would take at least 6 weeks for any improvements.

This lady did not attend her next appointment, which I was disappointed about because my supervisor was going to demonstrate a taping technique that unloads the shoulder which significantly reduces pain.

I decided to ring the patient, she said she didn’t come back because she didn’t notice any improvement in her pain levels. I realized I may not have taken enough time to explain the pathology and give a realistic picture of recovery of function. I explained this over the phone and told her I would try a taping technique to relieve her symptoms.

From this experience I have realized that for complex problems that require an extended recovery period, thorough explanations are required, and you need to ensure the patient understands this. I also think I should have asked my supervisor to demonstrate the taping technique on the initial visit because this would have helped the patient trust that we can actually help relieve the pain.

Next time I have a patient who I think may require extended treatment to reduce pain I will ensure patient education plays more of a role in my session.