The Covid-19 pandemic presented an exciting and creative opportunity for physiotherapy graduate Nick Li. He used this transition to focus his passion and dedication to the neuro physiotherapy community through social media. Aired weekly on Instagram TV in 6 two-part episodes, The Neuro Network aimed to bring attention to how physiotherapy (or physical therapy) and health professionals can address neurological conditions.
The series covered major topics in neuro physiotherapy including:
- Acupuncture
- Vestibular Rehab
- Concussion (treatment & management)
- The Bobath Concept
- Clinic Management
- Persistent Concussion Symptoms
We asked Nick to address some of our questions based on his experience relating to inspiration and creative direction, guest speaker selection, as well as his thoughts and reflections (post-show) on putting together the series.
What was the inspiration behind creating your show?
Nick:
Currently, much of the physiotherapy world on Instagram revolves around knowledge and education for orthopaedic injuries, such as strengthening, mobility, and stretching exercises for sports-related injuries. However, there seemed to be a lack of attention drawn towards neurological rehab. I wanted to bring this underappreciated topic of neuro rehab to the forefront of Instagram to help the public navigate potential resources and to help healthcare professionals become passionate and connected to the world of neurological physiotherapy.
I wanted to create a dynamic conversation that provided education in a relaxed and casual environment, which is why I chose Instagram TV over the popular podcast-style method. I’m a very visual person and even express myself a lot through my facial expressions and hand movements. I also think seeing someone speak can actually be much more captivating than just hearing someone speak.
How did you choose the speakers that appeared on your show?
Nick:
As I started producing and putting the show into fruition, I came up with the idea of having a two-part episode series. Part one was interview-style where the guest speakers spoke on their expertise, while part two was the myth or fact segment for quick rounds of myth-busting. A 30-minute episode on IGTV would’ve been way too long for such complex topics!
While coming up with topics, I knew I had to reach out to different experts in the neurological realm to bring their expertise to the table. So, I reached out to multiple individuals through Instagram. Luckily, the individuals I reached out to were just as excited to join the show to help bring neurological physiotherapy and rehabilitation knowledge to the forefront. In the end, I was able to secure an amazing panel of speakers to discuss the following topics:
Episode 1: Acupuncture
With Julie Amar (Registered Acupuncturist & Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, @qiknowsbest)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 1 on Instagram TV!
Episode 2: Vestibular Rehab
With Peter Teloniatis (Registered Physiotherapist, @thedizzinessclass)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 2 on Instagram TV!
Episode 3: Concussion (treatment & management)
With Amanda Benaim (Registered Physiotherapist, @amandaphysio)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 3 on Instagram TV!
Episode 4: The Bobath Concept
With Joseph Hung (Registered Physiotherapist, @physiologictoronto)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 4 on Instagram TV!
Episode 5: Clinic Management
With Sen Hoong Phang (Registered Physiotherapist & Clinic Manager, @propelphysiotherapy)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 5 on Instagram TV!
Episode 6: Persistent Concussion Symptoms
With Molly Parker (Registered Physical Therapist, @mollyparkerpt)
Watch Part 2 of Episode 6 on Instagram TV!
What are your key takeaways & reflections after wrapping The Neuro Network?
Nick:
This was the first time I got to experience what it was like to produce, host, video edit, and post my creation all in a span of two months. Although stressful and difficult, it was so rewarding to know that I was making a difference helping bring knowledge to the public through passion and approachability. I’m thankful for my colleagues for trusting in me with their voices and helping facilitate conversations that many individuals may not have been aware of.
If you have an interest in neurological rehabilitation, check out Nick Li on Instagram @itsphysionick and find all of the episodes on IGTV! See you there!
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