It is time again to show our appreciation to a dedicated physiopedia.
Mariam has volunteered for Physiopedia since 2018 and has been involved in numerous projects, sites and courses. You can bet that Mariam's work crossed your path at some point while using Physiopedia resources.
Her smile, reliability, and determination are contagious and have benefited anyone who has had the privilege or worked with her.
Deserved Mariam, Bravo for your award!
Your name: Mariam Hashem Mohana 
Time active at Physiopedia: Since June 2018 I started a small editing project with Wendy Walker and then took part in the volunteer orientation course in November 2018. I started working as a Learning Architect in June 2019.
Current role at Physiopedia: I am a learning architect and develop courses for Physioplus . This includes creating pages, writing course information, and quizzes. I also help facilitate volunteer orientation courses.
Where did you go to school? I studied in Cairo for six years and then moved to Saudi Arabia with my family. I lived here for a few years before returning to Cairo to study physiotherapy at Cairo University. I qualified as a PT from the University of Cairo in 2012 and then did my internship in the hospitals of the University of Cairo.
Where do you work? After I qualified, I switched between different locations; From trauma & orthopedics, neurology and pediatrics to the final specialization in musculoskeletal (MSK) practice in 2015, in a public hospital and in a private practice. Last year, in March 2019, I moved to the UK where I worked for various clinical locations in three beautiful coastal towns on the south east coast: Deal, Folkestone and Dover.
Describe your role (clinical / field work / research / science etc.): I am a senior physiotherapist who manages a number of cases of MSK patients. I see a variety of diseases like osteoarthritis, chronic pain and post-operative arthroplasty and repairs. I also offer two exercise groups; one to help people with reduced mobility and another specialized group for shoulder diseases.
What is the most rewarding part of a PT? Change a person's life. It's an amazing feeling and you can only get it if you actively listen to the patient and empower them to take control of their own treatment.
I also like to learn and reflect on my practice. I sit down and think about the things that I have learned from my patients and that I can do differently. It makes my practice useful and fruitful.
What are some of the more challenging aspects of a PT? Physios are now challenged because it is necessary to know more and to develop the breadth and depth of knowledge and to become curious to find answers to complicated clinical questions. Customizing treatment when you have a limited amount of time and implementing treatment guidelines for long-term conditions in limited resources can also be challenging.
What are some of your professional passions? The development of knowledge about chronic pain and cognitive behavior therapy is of particular interest to me. I am also passionate about current thinking about shoulder diseases and physiotherapy management.
What are some of your personal passions? I am very curious to learn new things, especially about people and cultures. Ever since I moved to the UK, I've been fascinated by learning about culture and history. Chess is high on my list of hobbies. I also like yoga and cycling.
What would you advise a newly graduated physiotherapist to do?
Enjoy the ride and never stop learning. Be open to different mindsets. It can be stressful when you start your career. So do not hesitate to seek support if necessary. Nothing is worse than feeling alone.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? This is an interesting question! I am very well planned, but I always end up in a different direction and on a different path that is usually much better than the one I originally chose. But in five years I would like to consider a career in teaching and research and also backpack for a while!
What is the best thing about being a Physiopedia (PP) volunteer? The team! Networking was the most rewarding part of working with Physiopedia. I have met physiotherapists from all over the world and have learned and shared thoughts and ideas with them.
Going to WCPT 2019 with PP was an amazing experience and changed me by discovering new areas of interest and opening my eyes to new opportunities and opportunities.
How did it help you to advance your professional development / career as a volunteer at Physiopedia? I search a lot in literature, read and summarize while working on courses. It was a great way to improve my knowledge and clinical skills. Activities like meetings and collaborations have improved my communication and team skills.
What are your hopes and aspirations for Physiopedia? As you get bigger and wider, you can reach more physiotherapists, universities, and patients, and possibly grant free access to research and articles.
What is your favorite course Physioplus ? The ACL program. Very informative and has changed my way of clinical management not only for ACL disorders but generally by learning how to plan my treatment.
Would you like to tell me something else? I have learned a lot with Physiopedia in the past two years and this would not have been possible without the wonderful team. Therefore I would like to thank Rachael, Tony, Tarina, Kim and Amanda for their support and their being part of this amazing trip.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Mariam. Physiopedia is lucky to have your mind, your passion and your work ethic in the team. Congratulations on your award this month! – The Physiopedia team.
