Page 160 - Mind, Body and Spirit No. 105 2021/22

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www.raptcassociation.org.uk
UK STRATEGIC COMMAND CHICKSANDS PRIMARY CARE REHABILITATION FACILITY
Sgt (SI) T Robbie RAPTC
2020 was a very strange and uncertain year for many, understandably with the COVID-19 Pandemic, yet 2021 was a year where things looked much more optimistic with regards
to things returning to some sort of normality. Therefore, when the opportunity to deploy on Op CROSSWAYS Short Term Training Team (STTT) during 19-30 Sep 21, well it was something I simply could not turn down. Our main effort was to Build Partner Capacity (BPC) of the Royal Saudi Land Forces (RSLF) and, when directed, other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states to assist with the security of the southern border with Yemen.
Myself (ERI) and Major Penhallow (Physio) deployed to deliver exercise rehabilitation for the RSLF. The course was delivered in Tabuk Military Training Facility to 19 students from various medical backgrounds. This was done by applying theory and practical progressions from early stage through to late stage for ankle, knee, spine and shoulder MSKIs.
Not all the deployment was spent teaching the RSLF, we were fortunate enough to visit Hegra, known to Muslims as Al-Hijr or Mada’in Salih. Hegra is an archaeological site with remains that date from the Nabataean Kingdom. It is only fitting to wear Saudi traditional dress which was surprisingly comfortable. We also had
the opportunity to experience the birthday of Saudi Arabia, with their national day falling whilst we were out there. The experience to work with the RSLF was one that I am glad I grasped. It did however highlight differences in culture and work ethic between the RSLF and the British Army. I highly recommend the STTT to any RAPTCI ERI. When the course came to an end the RSLF were very appreciative and gave gifts for recognition of our efforts.
Sgt (SI) Robbie putting the RSLF in some unfamiliar positions
Sgt (SI) Robbie Briefing the RSLF on what to expect from the STTT
STTT and RSLF course photograph
PRIMARY CARE REHABILITATION FACILITY (PCRF) BOVINGTON
SSgt (SSI) S Leng RAPTC
Assigned to PCRF Bovington in August 2018, I am privileged to be posted here for a second time, albeit in the role of the Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor (ERI).
Much of the focus within the Armoured Centre (ARMCEN) and more specifically, the Initial Trade Trainees (ITTs) has centred on the reconfiguration of the physical development plan, with training facilities having recently returned to normal use after months of restrictions being in place. So far, injury rates have been low, and turnaround has been quick when patients (in particular ITTs) have been referred to the PCRF as a result of injuries sustained during Physical Training, with much credit being given to WO2 (QMSI) Guyton RAPTC and his team within the Stanley Barracks Gymnasium for
their progressive structure and delivery of Physical Training towards the RAC Soldier.
The pace of life within Bovington can be extremely hectic at times, with ITT training taking place without a break throughout the calendar year, other than for two weeks at Christmas. In addition to the above, the PCRF is also responsible for the rehabilitation care pathway of the Armoured Support Group Royal Marines, Permanent Staff (with cap badges varying across the Army) and the Royal Yeomanry. Regardless, with ample preparation and planning, opportunities to undertake Adventurous Training, support RAPTC events and participate in RAPTC Football on a regular basis has enabled me to strike a fine balance to ensure the needs of all are met.