Fiona Powell

MSc , BSc

Orthopaedics, Neurology, General Medicine / Surgery

Introduction
I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1994 from Nene College in Northampton. I am an experienced Occupational Therapist in the field of physical disability, particularly relating to musculo-skeletal injuries / conditions and neurology.

My main area of expertise is in the assessment and treatment of clients with upper limb and hand related dysfunction, and I have had over fifteen years experience treating clients with both acute and chronic pain conditions including Hand Trauma, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Rheumatoid arthritis.

During my career, I have had experience in several areas of Occupational Therapy, including management of patients with CVA, trauma and orthopaedic patients (including Rheumatology and Burns). This included working with people following elective hip and knee replacement, and those with general trauma to the back, hips and knees. As a Band 6 Therapist, I helped to set up an Occupational Therapy service in a disabled living centre and it was here that I acquired a sound working knowledge of aids and adaptations.

I am currently working as a Band 7 Senior Occupational Therapist within a Hand Rehabilitation Unit in Bristol. Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team of Occupational and Physiotherapists, my responsibilities include the assessment and treatment of hand injured patients, using a range of specialist skills such as splinting, psychological support and functional rehabilitation. My continued study into the management of pain and CRPS and experience in Orthopaedics has given me a sound knowledge into the impact of pain related conditions on the individual's psychological state and function.

I joined Somek and Associates as an Occupational therapy expert in 2006 and more recently have acted in the role of Casework Supervisor, where I mentor a range of other experts and review case reports. I have written many Care and Rehabilitation reports for both Claimant and Defendant, have undertaken all aspects of the medico-legal process and I have attended Court I have undergone training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to Expert Witnesses.

Professional Affiliations
British Association of Hand Therapists

Professional Education
Registration Number: HPC OT22995
2004    MSc Allied Health (Hand Therapy), University of Derby
This included modules on the assessment and treatment of CRPS, which is my specific interest. I also studied neural anatomy and sensory assessment, treatment of tendon repairs in the hand and the psychological impact of injury. I also completed a module on ergonomics, studying the implications and solutions for poor posture and practice in the workplace to promote healthy working practice.
1994    BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy, Nene College, Northampton