As the world went on lock-down for the COVID-19 crisis we all had to make significant changes to the way that we practice. The idea of delivering remote consultations for individuals with neurological injury, illness and disease seemed an impossible feat. How could we possibly support our clients through a video or a telephone call? How could we replace or replicate being able to put our hands on a client? Would it be beneficial to the client? I was initially very cynical.

So, what has our experience been? It is true that there are some limitations to delivering rehabilitation in this way. Remote consultations are not right for everybody, but for those individuals that have engaged in remote consultations the outcomes have been far better than anticipated.  

I’m pleased to say that we’ve been able to support a number of clients with remote consultations in the past few weeks. Many individuals find it extremely beneficial to just have that reassuring conversation with a therapist. We have been able to check that they’re on the right track with their home exercises, keeping up with correct posture management strategies, managing their spasticity and ensuring they are correctly using rehabilitation technology and equipment.

Crucially, it has been the maintenance of that therapist-client relationship that has been overwhelming powerful.

The team at MOTIONrehab have received extremely positive feedback from our clients. The clients that we’re working with have really gained from this experience and although nothing can replace the one to one hands on therapy, it has provided essential rehabilitation support.

Feedback from Case Managers and other Health Professionals on our remote services has also been excellent.

“I just wanted to give you a quick update as I spoke to my client yesterday and she gave me some positive feedback about her remote session and exercises; she feels the new exercises are making a difference and reports that they seem to be loosening up her shoulder and she is already seeing an increase in range and less stiffness.

Thanks so much for your input, I think it’s already made a great difference, particularly as she is seeing progress again.”

 Emma Roddis

Specialist Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist Think Therapy 1st

What we have been able to do is promote rehabilitation, maintain function and keep spirits up for those individuals that can’t access our services in the short term.

As for the future, I think there will be a role for remote assessments and consultations to complement the services we offer at MOTIONrehab.

Keep safe and keep moving!

Sarah Daniel

Director of MOTIONrehab