Learning and knowing bodies: Norwegian psychomotor physiotherapists' reflections on embodied knowledge

Abstract

Background: The lived experience is irreducible, and can give access to pre-reflective and implicit, embodied knowledge. There is a lack of research concerning how specialists in Norwegian Psychomotor physiotherapy (NPMP) utilize their patients’ embodied knowledge. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore if the NPMP therapists experience the phenomenon “listening to the body” as a useful source of personal knowledge and motivation in the patient’s process of’ recovery, and if there could be too much “listening to the body”? Design and methods: A qualitative study based on empirical data from the interviews with 12 specialists in NPMP. The research data were analyzed using systematic text condensation as analyzing method. Results: Four themes emerged: (1) “The negative imperative of the body”; (2) “The embodied traumatic experiences”; (3) “The process of creating meaning”; and (4) “The embodied person emerges—who am I and what choice do I have?” The results revealed the importance of becoming aware of embodied experiences, which might represent different aspects of the patients’ lives. Conclusion: Embodied knowledge can support the physiotherapists in their clinical practice. The learning and knowing body represents resources of empowerment for the patients.