Interview with Sophie on Word Physical Therapy Day

What was your motivation to become a physiotherapist?

My decision to become a physiotherapist was motivated by the desire to help people. I have always had a great interest in understanding the connections within the human body - i.e., anatomy and physiology. What fascinated me about physiotherapy was that this knowledge can be applied to help other people.

What challenges are physiotherapists faced with every day?

For me the biggest challenges were the time and the framework conditions. In some cases, I would have liked to have more freedom regarding time management in order to increase the efficiency of the therapy. Unfortunately, this was not always possible due to the strict scheduling in rehabilitation facilities. In addition, the therapists are given little or no time for treatment planning, reporting and documentation - in other words, all the additional activities that increase the quality of treatment. I would have liked to prepare detailed reports for the therapists who continue the treatment after the rehabilitation facility, but I would have had to deduct some of the time needed for this from the patient's treatment time. It is a great pity that this additional work is not acknowledged and thus neglected far too quickly.

What are your wishes for the future?

I hope that in future therapists receive more appreciation and recognition for their work. By this I mean not only the work on the patient, but also everything beyond that. This could make learning and working in this important and beautiful profession more attractive again for young adults.