Job Satisfaction

A very pleasant 80-ish year old gentleman hobbled into clinic, obviously in a lot of pain. His 2 week old knee replacement gave way and he had fallen on it.

The joint was very swollen and any movement would cause him great agony. He could barely walk or bend his knee, and he lived on his own. Simply put, he was in pretty bad shape.

Plans were being made to admit him for inpatient physiotherapy and some much needed care, but like all NHS hospitals across the country, beds were scarce. So while waiting for the bed managers to sort something out, the consultant decided he'll try this man on a patella stabilising knee brace with hinges to allow flexion.

The orthotics department obliged with a knee brace and it was fitted on the old chap, who lo and behold, immediately was able to stand up, walk, and bend his knee - things he couldn't do a few seconds ago.

It's amazing how such a simple device, such a simple intervention, can make such a huge difference. From having to be admitted to hospital, he was now able to go about his daily life and attend physiotherapy as an outpatient instead. Suffice to say, the man was ecstatic.

It's like one of those rise-and-walk moments, without the choir of angels singing.

I guess sometimes simple is better.

Instant job satisfaction.