"Dear Newly Graduated Physical Therapist": A Direct Message Containing Advice We Wish We Had Received

Abstract

SYNOPSIS: This Viewpoint provides practical guidance for early-career musculoskeletal clinicians who are navigating the complexities of clinical practice. Key themes are embracing uncertainty, seeing and treating the whole person, avoiding judgemental mindsets, embracing shared decision-making, focusing on building strong therapeutic relationships and finding a work-related niche that resonates with one's own passions and strengths. We encourage clinicians to consume information carefully in an era of social media health influencers, and suggest ways of accurately identifying reliable sources of information. We do not presume to inoculate against all challenges that clinicians will encounter. Instead, we strive to help early-career clinicians navigate potential friction points in clinic and research based on our collective experience. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2024;54(10):621-624. Epub 17 September 2024. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12676.

Keywords: education; musculoskeletal; new graduate; therapeutic relationship; uncertainty.