Physiotherapy Trauma Talks

Send a text Cheryl Haley, an experienced physiotherapist, shares her year-long recovery after a high-speed cycling crash, from complex pelvic fractures and rib injuries to an under-recognised concussion that reshaped her practice. Practical hospital strategies, mobility choices, concussion care, and the emotional load of lost goals come to the fore. Podcast website: https://physiotherapytraumatalk...

Send a text We walk through the physiotherapy approach to traumatic brain injury in ICU, from neuroprotection and ICP thresholds to respiratory care, tracheostomy weaning, and safe early mobility. A real case shows how curiosity, teamwork, and measured risk move recovery forward. If this helped sharpen your neurotrauma instincts, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review with...

Send a text In today's episode on acute spinal cord injury, experienced trauma physiotherapists Andrea Christmas and Tatum Michael unpack what effective physiotherapy care looks like under pressure: how to protect a vulnerable spinal cord, keep the lungs open, and set realistic goals that carry patients from ventilation to rehabilitation. Podcast website: https://physiotherapytraumatalks.buzz...

Send a text We mark World Trauma Day with a hard look at road injuries in South Africa and the daily habits that raise or reduce risk. Two final-year physiotherapy students, Jayde Symons and Mikha Ceronio, share what they see on campus and how simple choices by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians save lives. Watch our injury awareness video using this link: https://youtu.be/sicgq1iNZ54  Podcast web...

Send a text What happens when physiotherapists step beyond their traditional roles in trauma care? Melissa Webb, a senior physiotherapist with 30 years of experience at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, shares insights into advanced roles physiotherapists play in trauma care and how their early intervention approach transforms patient outcomes. Podcast website: https://physiotherapytraumatalks.buz...

Send a text The journey to recovery after pelvic trauma doesn't end when the bones heal. For many patients, the invisible consequences of their injuries—urinary incontinence, bowel dysfunction, and sexual problems—can persist for months or even years, dramatically affecting their quality of life and ability to reintegrate into society. For physiotherapists wanting to expand their knowledge in...

Send a text Managing patients with polytrauma presents unique challenges for physiotherapists. Trauma physiotherapists Natascha Plani and Cikizwa Mafanya share their insights on managing patients with polytrauma, focusing on pelvic and acetabular injuries. They discuss evidence-based approaches for rehabilitation during prolonged bed rest and strategies to successfully achieve functional independe...

Send a text In this final episode of our three-part trunk trauma series, we explore the management of patients with abdominal trauma and the challenges it poses to rehabilitation. Whether you're a new graduate or experienced practitioner, this episode equips you with the knowledge to confidently and effectively treat these complex cases. Subscribe to Physiotherapy Trauma Talks for more insigh...

Send a text What happens when a traumatic fall leads to multiple broken ribs? How do physiotherapists determine which patients need immediate attention and which can safely go home? These questions drive Professor Ceri Battle's groundbreaking work in blunt chest trauma management. The first 72 hours post-injury represent the danger zone, where targeted physiotherapy interventions can prevent...

Send a text Thoracic trauma affects over 60% of trauma cases worldwide, with penetrating injuries presenting unique challenges. The damage to the thorax ranges from localized tissue injury in stab wounds to extensive internal devastation from high-velocity bullets that create shock waves and cavity formation throughout the chest. By understanding the pathophysiology of penetrating chest trauma and...

Send a text Eleonora Lozano, an experienced pediatric burn physiotherapist, shares her journey working with burned children at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and Red Cross Children's Hospital, detailing the challenges and rewards of this specialized field. Link to paper discussed in this episode: https://sajp.co.za/index.php/sajp/article/view/429/618  More resources on management of burns: ...

Send a text Whether you're a physiotherapy student, practicing clinician, or healthcare professional working with burn patients, this episode offers targeted, evidence-informed approaches to optimize outcomes. Refresh your knowledge about the role of positioning, manual hyperinflation, stretching, progressive mobilisation, and the 'physio pause' management strategy in patient manage...

Send a text What makes burns nursing unique? The world of burns care is explored with Katinka Rheeder, an experienced burns ICU nurse manager who has been working in trauma care since 1980. She shares her expertise in managing patients with burn injuries, highlighting how the multidisciplinary team approach ensures optimal outcomes for patients with complex injuries. For physiotherapists working w...

Send a text In part 1 of this four part series on burns, Professor Timothy Hardcastle shares his expertise on the role of trauma surgeons in managing patients with burn injuries, exploring everything from emergency department care to long-term follow-up. The episode highlights the complex journey of burn recovery and the vital multidisciplinary approach needed for optimal patient outcomes. Podcast...

Send a text Physiotherapists often find treating pediatric trauma patients in intensive care challenging due to limited specialized training. Professor Brenda Morrow, an internationally renowned expert in pediatric physiotherapy, brings clarity to this complex subject, explaining why children are fundamentally different from adults in trauma care. Beyond the physiological aspects, Professor Morrow...

Send a text Outcome measures aren't just numbers on a page—they're powerful communication tools that transform physiotherapy practice in trauma care. Associate-Professor Roos explains how outcome measures create a universal language between patients, clinicians, and healthcare funders. Ronel shares how these tools guide critical decision-making throughout the rehabilitation journey—from...

Send a text Dr. Kim Coutts pulls back the curtain on the often-overlooked role of speech therapy in trauma care, revealing how this vital discipline can transform patient outcomes in the ICU. She explains that speech therapists are essential team members who contribute to managing post-extubation dysphagia, supporting patients with tracheostomy, and addressing communication barriers in the ICU. Wi...

Send a text In this episode we delve into the pivotal role occupational therapists play in trauma care and rehabilitation. Dr van Stormbroek sheds light on how OTs contribute to restoring not just physical function but also the overall quality of life for patients recovering from trauma. Drawing on her wealth of experience, she discusses key strategies for fostering patient participation in their...

Send a text Discover how nutrition is the unsung hero in trauma recovery care in our latest episode! Join me in conversation with Chantal Mostert, a dedicated dietician from the trauma intensive care unit at Netcare Milpark Hospital. In this enlightening conversation, we explore the vital role that nutrition plays for patients recovering from traumatic injuries, unveiling how tailored eating plans...

Send a text This episode explores the crucial role of physiotherapists in trauma care. The conversation covers patient assessments, multidisciplinary teamwork, and the importance of mental health support for caregivers, while also providing valuable advice for emerging physiotherapists. Explore the essential elements of communication and advocacy in physiotherapy as Moira and Natascha shine light...

Send a text Unlock the secrets of pain management in trauma care with our enlightening discussion featuring Professor Romy Parker from the University of Cape Town. Discover how understanding pain as a biopsychosocial construct can transform patient care. From nociceptive to neuropathic and nociplastic pain, we explore the complex relationship between physical injuries and the individual's men...

Send a text What if the journey to becoming a trauma nurse could lead you to unexpected adventures in aviation medicine? Join me as I welcome Dr. Santel de Lange, an expert in trauma and emergency care nursing from Stellenbosch University, to Physiotherapy Trauma Talks. Dr. de Lange shares her inspiring path from emergency units to the skies, providing critical care on air ambulance flights. She i...

Send a text Professor Timothy Hardcastle, a pioneering trauma surgeon and Head of the Trauma and Burns Clinical Department at Nkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in Durban, shares his incredible story from a young first aider to a leading force in trauma care. With his extensive experience both locally and internationally, he sheds light on South Africa's unique trauma landscape, where healthcare p...

Send a text Ever wondered how trauma affects the body on multiple levels, or why early rehabilitation is crucial for optimal healing? This episode sheds light on these questions, emphasizing the unexpected nature of trauma and the widespread challenges it presents physically, emotionally, cognitively, and socially. The discussion highlights the importance of holistic care, understanding the metabo...

Send a text Embark on a journey that promises to enlighten your understanding of trauma rehabilitation. With over 30 years of experience, I share personal stories and valuable insights into treating patients with traumatic injuries in acute care settings, from assaults to road traffic accidents. This inaugural episode sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of trauma physiotherapy, a field...