Robert Andrew Atkinson

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

Specialisms

Orthopaedic Conditions, Cauda Equina, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain

Introduction

I qualified as a chartered physiotherapist in 2004, and completed my junior core rotations within the NHS. I then specialised  within the musculoskeletal and orthopaedic sector and have worked within a wide range of clinical settings. I am confident assessing a diversity of acute, chronic, and life-changing complex musculoskeletal, and orthopaedic conditions including fibromyalgia and chronic pain. 

I combine my clinical work with private practice and occupational health case management, within a busy motor-manufacturing company. This role involves assessments, treatment, and I provide fitness for work reports. I then liaise with HR staff, and line managers to work out return to work plans. I also have my own private practice and receive referrals from case managers  to assess and provide my expert opinion on an individuals capabilities to fulfil their capacity to work if they are on sick leave from their company. This requires me to provide a detailed musculoskeletal/orthopaedic assessment, and a report for the companies occupational health department. I work to a high skill level as an advanced practitioner within physiotherapy, I can provide advanced level clinical assessments which enables me to provide injection based techniques. I am also confident with imaging interpretation and reading X-ray reports, MRI, and CT scans for MSK/orthopaedic related conditions. 

I have extensive experience within the acute setting, I worked with the British Forces Overseas in Germany for many years. This included working with military personnel who were requiring extensive rehabilitation in preparation for deployment overseas. I  also gained experience with the decision making for soldiers who required medical discharge due to physical injuries. This meant I was required to ensure my medical notes were to a high standard in terms of clinical accuracy, in case of litigation claims within the military.

I have a background of exercise based therapies, and an excellent understanding of the medical and bio-psychosocial model of healthcare. I write reports, and provide assessment and treatments to a high standard. I have an excellent knowledge base with regard to co-morbidities that can overlap with musculoskeletal/orthopaedic issues, and a good understanding of medicines used within this area of practice. I also have a thorough understanding of pain science, the bio-psychosocial model of healthcare is a fundamental area of my clinical practice. I maintain my continued professional development to adhere to the CSP, and HCPC requirements.

I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.