Dooley Noted: 3/4/2014
Yesterday, an amazing Australian helicopter pilot named Brett flew me around Sydney.
The view was remarkable, but I was most taken with Brett.
I watched this very skilled pilot do a log and ten minute systems check before take off. Although he’s flown thousands of miles, he knew the best way to keep a safe and effective record was to have a checklist.
While airborne, I admired Brett’s flying technique. This skill floated on a net of safety, so the technique was able to shine.
As a practitioner, I have felt myself get trapped into developing gorgeous, fluent technique. While this is admirable, this is penultimate.
Practitioners need checklists. They need to make sure all systems are monitored before technique can be efficient.
I’ll provide an example.
A patient presents with persistent right shoulder pain. A practitioner chooses to perform myofascial release and provide home exercise. This practitioner never considered the pain may be referred pain from viscera, like the liver or gallbladder.
No amount of beautiful muscle work or exercises will make referred pain dissipate for good. Without a checklist, the practitioner and patient are both led astray.
Practitioners: Please develop your techniques. But always perform your checklists first.
Potential patients and clients: Demand more from your practitioners and trainers by asking for checklists.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
