As a newly graduated osteopath, one of the most valuable ways to continue learning is by observing experienced clinicians working at the highest level of their field. Recently, I had the opportunity to observe Mr Harland, a spinal neurosurgeon, during one of his clinical days at Spire Little Aston. The experience proved to be deeply insightful, providing lessons that I will take forward into my own osteopathic practice.
From the very start of my observations, it was clear that spinal care requires a balance of clinical knowledge, decision making, and communication. Throughout the day, I observed numerous patients presenting with a wide range of spinal pathologies. Some of these cases included disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression. Seeing a wide range of symptom presentations, highlighted to me how varied spinal pathology can be, and the importance to assess each patient as an individual rather than relying on patterns alone.
One of the most valuable aspects of the day was observing how Mr Harland reviews MRI scans alongside the clinical examinations he does within his clinic. Mr Harland was very clear in explaining what the MRI scan showed to his patients and followed through with explaining why they were experiencing their symptoms based on his clinical findings and MRI review. I found this to be one of the most critical parts of his appointments, as patients seemed to feel more confident and reassured knowing what was the cause of their pain.
Mr Harland further outlined the importance of a case history, due to his targeted questioning and communication, he was able to understand further how the patient’s symptoms were affecting their daily life. This ensured that management plans were tailored not only to the pathology but also to the patient’s goals, concerns, and expectations. Observing this reinforced the importance of effective communication and understanding of the patient’s well-being.
I also observed the planning of forward-going protocols for each patient. These plans varied greatly depending on the individual, ranging from conservative management, monitoring and manual therapy to surgical intervention when appropriate. What stood out most was the emphasis on choosing the least invasive and most effective option for each patient.
Overall, observing Mr Harland at Spire Little Aston was an invaluable learning experience as a newly qualified osteopath. It deepened my understanding of spinal injuries, improved my appreciation for imaging and clinical reasoning, and reinforced the importance of patient-centred care. This experience was particularly insightful to understand where osteopathic care fits within the wider healthcare system, knowing when referral is appropriate, and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to achieve the best outcomes for patients. Amazing experiences like this serve as a reminder that learning does not end at graduation, it is a continuous process, shaped by observation, reflection, and collaboration across disciplines.
