The importance of questioning ideas and theories as a clinician: How, Why, and What?

The rehab world has seen a lot of changes over the last decade.  With the amount of bloggers, researchers, and continuing education out there, physical therapists have been able to learn so much more.  However, at the same time we see PT's accepting ideas or things they read without questioning why or how things are supposed to work.  For example, think about the phrases you use on a daily basis.  Some of these are probably: activation, glutes, engage, core, stiffness, tightness, tension, and so on.  I'm willing to bet that many of you haven't thought about what your really trying to say or achieve.  One of the best examples I can use is "the glutes not turning on".  I can say I am totally guilty of using this phrase myself.  But are the glutes really not "ON"?  What does that mean?  

While it may take more effort or work to do so, we must really question ideas or theories in our minds.  Challenge some of the ideas out there and try to work through them.  Really understand what you are trying to say or trying to achieve.  By understanding what you are trying to achieve you will learn more about your own practice and clinical reasoning.  We are all life long learners and should continue to question ourselves and our peers for the goal of understanding.  Take some time this week and learn about what phrases you use and how that impacts your clinical reasoning or education to patients.  

​- Brian

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