Psychologically Informed Physiotherapy

The first of its kind, this textbook brings together an international and interdisciplinary team of leading experts in the field. Together they present an evidence-based range of ideas and concepts around the psychologically informed practice framework, bringing psychosocial aspects of physiotherapy to the fore alongside the established biomedical model. By applying these aspects to screening, exploration and triaging, physiotherapists are better able to identify the origins of pain and barriers to rehabilitation; and so are more likely to achieve consistently good clinical outcomes for their patients. Throughout, clinical case studies ensure that the theory is then grounded in a variety of practical scenarios after which some reflective exercises and clinically relevant scenarios reinforce learning and understanding.

Chapters on:

Psychology of professional identity in health care

The biopsychosocial model

Screening for red flags

Adapting interactions with others to form empowering relationships and influence behavioural change

Neuro-immune-endocrine interactions and clinical practice in stress, pain and recovery

Care of the anxious patient through cognitive and person-centred strategies

Alternative and evolving models of practice, including the clinical flag system

The psychology of the athlete from the physiotherapist’s perspective

Using counselling and psychological strategies within physiotherapy

Making evidence-based decisions and measuring effectiveness in practice

Using psychological interventions as a student or new graduate