Eileen Murphy, chartered physiotherapist specialising in medical exercise, stresses the importance of getting immediate therapy after an injury
I start work at 10 a.m. and see between 10 and 12 patients a day.
The majority of my patients have back problems, sports injuries or musculoskeletal disorders.
Through my training as a physiotherapist and my experience of the Norwegian system of medical exercise therapy, I realise the importance of immediate treatment to minimise the post-injury inactive period by reducing pain and preventing weakness.
At the initial assessment, I take a thorough musculoskeletal assessment which helps me identify the nature and the extent of the injury.
I also look at any underlying biomechanical problems, poor posture or improper sports technique. Improper desk and chair set-up is also a factor in many arm, elbow and shoulder problems.
Teaching people to take charge of their posture is an important aspect of my work.
Manual manipulation is the most common method of treatment.
This is a carefully graded system of moving joints to reduce pain and restore normal mobility to the joints and nervous system in combination with stretching soft tissue.
I also work out a rehabilitation exercise programme with each patient which will bring him/her back to full activity levels.
These exercise programmes will help to prevent recurrence of the same or similar problems.
Very often, people don't rehabilitate fully after an injury and then get the same problem back again.
Strengthening muscle, mobilising stiff joints and stretching tight tissue are crucial aspects of any rehabilitation exercise programme.
At the Dublin Spine and Sports Physiotherapy Centre, I have nine chartered physiotherapists working with me.
We have a rehabilitation gym with equipment which is specifically designed so that patients can work progressively with injured tissue under full supervision.
There is also a growing awareness that bone mass density can be restored with exercise in bone damaged due to osteoporosis, so we also design safe and effective strength-training programmes for people affected by this condition.
I love the varied nature of my working day and the interaction with people.
Also, because my work is very goal-oriented, I enjoy the challenge of finding ways to help patients improve the quality of their lives and levels of fitness following injury.
I also give lectures on the Masters course in Sports Medicine at Trinity College, Dublin, which I enjoy.
Keeping up to date with research in this way is stimulating in combination with clinical work.
My working day usually finishes at 4 p.m.