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🌟Listening Isn’t Passive—It’s A Clinical Skill

Published 17 days ago • 1 min read

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Take Your Time And Listen

During a busy clinic day, it’s easy to slip into a routine—ask the questions, document the answers, move on. But truly listening to patients is a skill that creates a clinical advantage.

When we listen to understand—not just to reply—we uncover patterns, motivations, and barriers that standard assessments can miss. We hear the context behind the complaint, the emotion behind the limitation, and the unsaid reason behind a patient's problem.

This level of attention isn’t about taking more time—it’s about using time more effectively. And patients know the difference.

The best clinicians aren’t just skilled movers—they’re skilled listeners. That’s what builds trust, precision, and results.

Listening is a superpower.

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Here are some tips to strengthen your active listening:

  1. Pause before responding – Give space after a patient speaks. It shows you're considering their words, not just waiting to talk.
  2. Reflect back – Briefly summarize what you heard to confirm understanding and show that you're truly engaged.
  3. Listen for what's not said – Pay attention to tone, hesitation, or emotion. These cues often reveal more than words alone.
  4. Ask a question and count to NINE in your head – Allow the patient to think about the question before you rephrase the question, or give hints, or examples. Eagerness to fill out the questionnaire can get in the way of a thorough history.

⭐️ We have an upcoming webinar we'd love for you to listen to.

⭐️More to come.

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All My Best,

Ryan

P.O. Box 11195, Blacksburg, VA 24062
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