Physical Therapists should learn how to Coach!
Physical therapy is more than just prescribing exercises and using hands-on techniques. It’s certainly more than table exercises and rubbing goo all over your body. It’s about motivating, guiding, and educating patients to take charge of their health. In other words, it requires a blend of clinical expertise and coaching skills. But here’s the kicker: the best physical therapists are often the best coaches. They just don’t always realize it yet.
In this blog, we’ll dive into why physical therapists need to be great coaches (think Ted Lasso with a clipboard) and why taking coaching classes can elevate their practice (and their patients' outcomes).
1. Motivation Is Key to Recovery
Let’s be real—rehab can be a long, frustrating journey. Sometimes its straight boring. I get it. I was there a long time ago Getting patients to stay consistent with their home exercises and having them constantly communicate . A good coach knows how to tap into what motivates each individual and keep them focused on the long game.
Why Coaching Skills Matter:
Building Trust: Patients are more likely to follow your advice when they feel understood and supported.
Goal Setting: Coaches help break down lofty recovery goals into bite-sized, achievable steps.
Celebrating Wins: Recognizing small victories keeps patients motivated and engaged.
Thoughts from the Doc: If you can motivate someone to do three sets of glute bridges while their toddler climbs on them like a jungle gym, you might as well put “miracle worker” on your resume.
2. Effective Communication Makes All the Difference
You can have the best treatment plan in the world, but if your patient doesn’t understand or buy into it, it’s useless. Coaching classes teach communication techniques that ensure your message lands.
What Coaching Teaches:
Active Listening: Understanding patients’ concerns instead of jumping straight to solutions.
Clear Instructions: Breaking down complex movements in a way that’s easy to grasp.
Empathy and Encouragement: Making patients feel heard and valued.
Thoughts from the Doc: Coaching classes often include role-playing scenarios—yes, you might find yourself pretending to be a patient with a bad attitude. But trust us, it’s worth it.
3. Behavior Change Is at the Heart of Rehab
Physical therapists aren’t just treating injuries—they’re helping patients adopt healthier behaviors. Whether it’s sticking to a home exercise program or making lifestyle changes to prevent future injuries, behavior change is critical.
Coaching Tools for Behavior Change:
Motivational Interviewing: A technique for helping patients identify their own reasons for change.
Accountability Strategies: Setting up systems to keep patients on track.
Positive Reinforcement: Encouraging progress rather than focusing solely on setbacks.
Thoughts from the Doc: Convincing a patient to do their home exercises or a client to do their mobility work is a lot like convincing a cat to take a bath—challenging, but possible with the right approach.
4. Coaching Improves Patient Outcomes
Studies have shown that when healthcare providers use coaching techniques, patients experience better outcomes. Why? Because they feel empowered and take ownership of their recovery.
The Evidence:
Higher adherence to treatment plans
Faster recovery times
Improved patient satisfaction
Thoughts from the Doc: Think of yourself as a personal cheerleader and guidance counselor with a stethoscope—always rooting for your patients to win.
5. Personal and Professional Growth for Physical Therapists
Taking coaching classes doesn’t just benefit your patients—it makes you a better clinician and leader.
Professional Benefits:
Enhanced Leadership Skills: Great coaches are natural leaders.
Better Team Dynamics: Communicate more effectively with colleagues.
Increased Job Satisfaction: Watching your patients thrive is incredibly rewarding.
Where to Start:
Look for coaching certifications that focus on healthcare or wellness.
Consider courses in motivational interviewing or behavior change.
Attend workshops that emphasize communication and leadership skills.
Final Thoughts:
Physical therapy is about more than just fixing bodies—it’s about inspiring people to move better and live healthier lives. By developing strong coaching skills, you can become a true partner in your patients’ journeys to recovery. So why not invest in yourself and your practice by taking coaching classes? Your patients will thank you—and so will your future self.
Thoughts from the Doc: And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be the next coaching legend—minus the whistle and awkward locker room speeches, unless that’s your thing (Insert Coach Herb Brooks from Miracle)
