The interview

Pinar Ertorun,Turkey 

What is your profession:

I am a physical therapist

How is the rehabilitation treatment of spine diseases managed in your country?

First of all, the patient is examined by a doctor. The doctor creates the rehabilitation program. When the patient comes to the physiotherapist, the physiotherapist makes his/her own assessment and organizes the rehabilitation program according to the pain and needs of the person.
 

Scoliosis: how is it treated in your country?

In principle in order to find out the factor that causes scoliosis; family history, neurological tests and the person should be evaluated in detail. After that, the person is evaluated aesthetically according to the TRACE. The x-ray is examined, and treatment is established based on the degree of the person and all other factors (flexibility, the height of the rib hump etc.).
A person can be treated with the appropriate brace and stretching and strengthening exercises (3-D exercises) for scoliosis. Surgery can also be considered if the person has scoliosis of 45 degrees and above.

What would you like to improve on the clinical practise currently followed in your country? 

I would like to ensure that patients are assessed holistically. I would like to make sure that they are well-oriented in terms of brace or exercise. In order for families to be more aware of this issue, it is necessary to inform them. It should be explained thoroughly that this situation
can be better with the support of families.

What can this course give you and how do you think you can apply this knowledge in your daily clinical practise?

This course allows me to evaluate and treat people with scoliosis in all its details, and approach the complaints of people with scoliosis from a correct point of view. I also learn how to approach the patient psychologically and motivationally.