The Practice of Medicine has always been a blend of science and art.  Medical school lays the foundations for the science portion; however, the art comes from the guidance given by established physicians. In fact, you graduate medical school with a Medical Degree but cannot practice medicine until you do an internship where you train under the tutelage of an Attending Physician.

 

VCOM students practicing nerve conduction studies on each other

This week I helped the Physical Medical & Rehabilitation club at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine learn about electrodiagnostic medicine.  This is a group VCOM medical students who have a particular interest in learning about physiatry. Electrodiagnostics include nerve conduction studies and electromyography and all physiatrists learn how to perform them over the course of 3-4 years of training. We discussed  how these studies can help patients with sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, neck pain, low back pain, peripheral neuropathy, myasthenia gravis, or myopathy.

After some didactics, I even had a brave volunteer allow us to practice on her so that everyone could see how to perform and interpret these studies!  I was so impressed with the students genuine interest and thoughtful questions.  By the end, all students were able to practice zapping their friends.  This experience will give the students empathy and insight for when they are faced with ordering this test for a patient in the future.

I am fortunate and privileged  to have interested students I can guide along the path to Physician.  Thank you VCOM PM&R club!

Good Luck!

Valley Sports & Spine Clinic Giving you Back your Life

Dr Ethan Colliver