Rheumatology
During this placement, the majority of patients will be treated in out – patient clinics/ classes, within the Physiotherapy Department. Occasionally, you may accompany your supervisor to assess a patient on one of the Medical or Paediatric wards.
It will be possible to gain experience in the assessment and treatment of patients, of all ages, referred by GPs, Consultant Rheumatologists, Paediatricians and other members of the multi-disciplinary team, with a wide range of acute and chronic inflammatory joint diseases and musculoskeletal conditions, some of which are listed below.
Alongside clinical work there is the opportunity to support with service development and, with support from your educator and peers, you will be able to complete a project to support the Rheumatology service.
Common Conditions
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Osteoarthritis, especially multi-joint involvement, and/ or multi-functional impairments.
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Connective tissue disease e.g. Scleroderma
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Juvenile rheumatic diseases e.g. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
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Hypermobility Syndrome (Adults and children)
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Chronic Musculoskeletal problems (e.g. spinal dysfunction, cervical, thoracic, lumbar areas)
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Upper/ lower limb dysfunctions, in conjunction with Occupational Therapy, as appropriate
Learning Opportunities
Experience may be gained:
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Patient advice and education in self management skills, including goal setting, pacing and pain management
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Hydrotherapy – for rheumatological conditions (when considered appropriate)
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Assessment for and provision of suitable walking aids
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Provision of appropriate splints/ supports for wrist/ hand/ thumb (OT provides specialised activity and joint specific splints)
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Progressive, graded exercise therapy inc. gym for rehabilitation following deterioration in condition e.g. flare of RA
Experience may be gained in delivering the following classes:
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Impact / proprioception lower limb class (weekly)
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Chronic Low-back Pain Management class (weekly based over six sessions)
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Ankylosing Spondylitis Gym/ Hydrotherapy class ( weekly)
Learning Outcomes
On completing this placement you should be able to:
Justify and carry out an accurate and detailed subjective and physical examination for a range of simple and some more complex rheumatic conditions, affecting peripheral and spinal areas thus demonstrating the application of assessment skills, modified as needed, to investigate the level of inflammatory joint disease present and/or causes for functional impairment, using appropriate active/ passive/ manual assessment techniques. This process should include the interpretation of all available resources e.g. imaging, where appropriate.
Demonstrate the ability to plan, carry out, modify/ progress and evaluate patient centred, specific, treatment plans and rehabilitation programmes, which include an educational component, for the holistic management of patients with a rheumatic disease.
Set appropriate short and long term goals for patients with rheumatological conditions, ensuring the delivery of patient centred care and reflecting on its relationship to the psycho – social needs of the individual.
Complete concise and accurate records, including electronic and written.
Manage your time and caseload effectively, showing appropriate prioritisation skills.
Communicate effectively and appropriately, presenting information, verbally and in writing, with patients, carers and other professionals, particularly in the delivery of patient education
Critically evaluate the role of the multi – disciplinary team in the management of rheumatologic conditions, considering current developments (e.g. drug therapy, patient education) with particular reference to the benefits/ limitations of physiotherapy and current evidence to support this.
Day 1
Full uniform is worn (polo university ID Badge required to be displayed at all times)
Working hours are to be agreed on contacting the department with your supervisor.
Swimwear will be required when working in the
hydrotherapy pool.
Directions: Click here or visit www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk for directions and map of the hospital. The site is accessible via public transport.
Please familiarise yourself with the key policies before you arrive.
Photos: Chesterfield Royal Hospital