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Thanks to all who helped make the 2018 Physiotherapy UK event a huge success

I would like to express the CSP’s sincere thanks to all the professional networks who helped us make Physiotherapy UK 2018 such a success this October. 

A special mention should go to our programme partner the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP) for their extensive contribution to the musculoskeletal strand and tireless promotional support.

We were delighted that 1200 professionals were able to attend. These events, like many areas of the CSP’s activity, can only be this effective through the hard work and expertise of members who often generously volunteeer their spare time.

We hope our continued collaboration with the networks will result in a bigger and even more valuable Physiotherapy UK for members in 2019.

• Natalie Beswetherick, CSP Director of Practice and Development

Being frank with patients

It’s a shame that Steve Corkhill had a poor experience (‘Patients are happy for physios to talk straight’ Frontline 2 November). But we do not agree that this reflects what we as Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) specialist physiotherapists practise. 

Part of patient assessment is based on their risk of cardiac events which cannot be ignored – it’s not “fear of being sued”. Assessment also allows discussion of an individual’s understanding about their cardiac condition or event, including an evaluation of any misconceptions they have about their recovery and the role of exercise. As CR physiotherapists we strive to help patients fulfil their potential, push hard where appropriate, and advise caution where necessary. Our aim is to always be honest but considerate in our communication.

• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Cardiac Rehabilitation Executive Committee

Research is not about saving money

Regarding the Cochrane review of Circuit Class Therapy (CCT)  (Frontline 21 Nov). 

I am increasingly concerned about not so much the value of research but how the results are used in clinical practice. Research should inform best clinical practice. Its primary role is not to save money. 

We have clear guidelines as to the dose of therapy required via the UK NICE guidelines. A stroke survivor should have 45 minutes of the relevant rehabilitation five times per week for as long as possible. We cannot allow staffing and funding pressure to allow us to interpret this Cochrane review as ‘CCT is the answer.’ 

We need thorough assessment of stroke survivors’ motor control dysfunction and clear criteria for inclusion in CCT. It is the improved skills of our NHS teams that have increased the chance of survival after stroke. If we save people, we have to accept the responsibility and cost of rehabilitation. We should not accept a ‘something is better than nothing’ approach.

• Susan Pattison director SP Therapy Services , Bury