"I found the setting very welcoming"

I was fortunate enough to be offered an appointment at the Community Appointment Day when I called to rearrange the allotted physiotherapy anointment I received by post.

I had concerns that attending an event may mean that I would not receive the same quality of service provided in Wishaw University hospital. how wrong was I?

On entering the hall in the Wishaw Sports Centre I was impressed by the organisation of the different areas of assessment and treatment laid out before me. I found the setting very welcoming and there was a warmth in the atmosphere with lots of chatter and nice interactions between the physio staff and patients.

After registering, I was directed to the waiting area.  Very quickly I was taken to the area where my healthcare background was taken. this took some time as I have various health complications but the physiotherapist covered all aspects of my health taking time to talk to me and listen to what I had to say.

I was then taken to a screened cubicle where a physiotherapist did the most thorough examination of my muscles, nervous system and functioning I have experienced since developing spinal stenosis. 

The outcome from this was that I was reassured that I did not have significant weakening of major muscle groups. We discussed the treatment plan she suggested and I was offered a chance to attend hydrotherapy which I am really enthusiastic about. 

The physiotherapist also noted I was showing early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome and recommend a night splint to alleviate the pressure on the nerves going into my hand.  We talked about the crutches I was using and she suggested we change these for crutches with ergonomic handles to relieve the pressure on my hands, although she did recommend me using a wheeled walking aid with a seat as this could extend my walking range.  I am considering this.

We also discussed strength and balance classes as I stumble frequently and because I have fallen recently a refer to the Falls Service.  The physiotherapist took time to go online and review my medical reports from the Neurologist and the Doctor at the Pain Clinic and took this information into account. I was also experiencing severe neck shoulder and arm pain at the time of the appointment and I was  to have a session with a physiotherapist to be assessed and exercises given for its relief. I was also give advice on complications to be aware of and the action needed if these occurred.

To my surprise these referral all happened in the venue.  I was first seen by the physiotherapist who assessed my neck movements and gave me an exercise programme and some literature. From there i was taken over to the small aids section and fitted with a splint for my wrist, and given advice on its use and caring for it.  I was fitted with and issued crutches with ergonomic handles. 

My details were taken for passing to the Falls service and I was advised they would be in touch.  I was then taken over to the NLC Strength and Balance classes enrolled desk and my details were taken. 

Today I received a letter from NLC Health and  Wellbeing Section advising I had been enrolled in the Specialist Health Classes Strength and Balance and was entitled to attend 20 Classes free of charge.

In total my appointment took 2 hrs and 30 mins, I have never before experienced a holistic approach to me as a person and the difficulties I have trying to live my life as well as I can despite my  health conditions. 

In any other appointments, I have not felt like a person only a  segment of a person with a defective body system that was detached from every other area in my life.  I also realised that for the first time every person I spoke with  took time to listen to me and my experiences instead of rhyming off the NICE guidance for treatment.

I cannot praise the staff highly enough for their professionalism, and I thank them for  their approach-ability, skills, knowledge, willingness to listen, advise and discuss and action their findings.  This includes the staff from NLC who supported the MSK service in the setting up of the venue, the reception desk, and the staff from specialist services. 

For anyone out there who is lucky enough to be offered the chance to attend a Community Appointment day organised by the MSK Physiotherapy Department my advice is take it.  You will see the NHS working for people in a way you could only imagine.