Clinicians from PA Hospital’s Back Assessment Clinic have received international acknowledgement for their outstanding clinical expertise outlined in a case study.
Their article, Metastatic Brain Cancer, Masquerading as Lumbar Radiculopathy with Foot Drop: A Case Report was authored by Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists Miles Wilson and Jody Anning, and Neurosurgeon Dr Ananthababu Sadasivan.
It details a patient who referred with what appeared to be a routine spinal condition but was found to have metastatic brain cancer instead.
“Which is tragic for the patient, but it also meant they’re now getting the care they need,” said Miles.
"Initially, it seemed like a fairly straightforward case on paper, but upon meeting the patient, it became clear their symptoms were not of a spinal origin.
"We were then able to escalate the case and bring them into the Emergency Department for urgent imaging.
“The patient got the right care at the right time rather than potentially experiencing a much more serious outcome while waiting for an appointment."
The case demonstrates the important role of the Back Assessment Clinic, which is a physiotherapy-led screening clinic within PA Hospital's Spinal Surgical Services.
Jody said the team is made up of physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists to provide the best possible care to patients.
“Patients referred to spinal surgeons are often first assessed by our advanced physiotherapists, allowing them to receive expert assessment sooner while ensuring those requiring urgent surgical care are identified quickly,” she said.
“We also work closely with spinal surgeons through regular case conferences.”
The metastatic brain cancer case study was recently awarded the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy 2025 George J. Davies – James A. Gould Excellence in Clinical Inquiry Award.
It was recognised as the journal’s best case study article of 2025, which the team say is a reflection of the expertise and collaboration behind the service.
"It's an absolute privilege to work with such wonderful colleagues across physiotherapy, neurosurgery and orthopaedics," said Miles.
"I'm really proud of the work that we do day to day, and I think this case study perfectly sums up the work that we get to do here."
Jody said the team's greatest reward is seeing the difference the service makes for patients.
"We're able to give patients expert advice and guidance on how to manage their conditions. We can escalate care when required, and we can provide alternative pathways for treatment that a lot of people in the community may not have access to," she said.
"It's nice to know that we can make a difference in people's healthcare."
Congratulations Miles, Jody and Dr Babu!