The Importance of Non-Verbal Communication in Treatment Sessions

In this podcast episode, Joe Gibson, an upper limb rehabilitation specialist physio, highlights the significance of non-verbal communication for successful treatment sessions. She shares a patient example where she initially believed the treatment was going well, but noticed subtle changes in the patient's body language and tone of voice. By paying attention to these non-verbal cues, Joe discovered that the patient had concerns about cracking noises in her shoulder and feared developing arthritis. This revelation emphasized the importance of understanding patients' fears and beliefs, and how they influence their perception of treatment. Joe emphasizes that effective non-verbal communication, including eye contact, facial expressions, posture, and tone of voice, can enhance the therapeutic alliance and lead to better treatment outcomes.