Beyond the Imaging: Building Therapeutic Alliance in an Era of Imaging Overuse

Research consistently demonstrates that the therapeutic alliance between clinician and patient is one of the strongest predictors of successful rehabilitation outcomes. This course explores evidence-based communication strategies, patient- centered interviewing techniques, expectation management, and effective education regarding medical imaging findings to strengthen therapeutic relationships and improve outcomes across musculoskeletal practice. Participants will leave with immediately applicable techniques to build trust, improve adherence, communicate imaging findings confidently, reduce fear and catastrophization, and optimize patientengagement from the initial evaluation through discharge. This course integrates current research on therapeutic alliance, patient expectations, communication science, placebo/nocebo effects, and musculoskeletal imaging into practical clinical strategies that attendees can implement immediately. Participants will learn structured interviewingtechniques, methods to establish rapport rapidly, approachesto discussing imaging findings without increasing fear, and communication strategies that improve patient confidence, engagement, adherence, and overall treatment outcomes.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Athletic Trainers

Delivery Format: Synchronous, Live interactive webinar to be attended online on a specific date/time

Highlights

• Gain practical communication strategies that can beimplemented immediately to improve patient engagement, adherence, satisfaction, and clinical outcomes
• Review current evidence on therapeutic alliance, patientexpectations, placebo/nocebo effects, and imaging interpretation with real-world clinical applications to enhance every patient interaction