Working Life: Sheila Barrett, chartered physiotherapist

6am Meditating first thing recharges me for the day ahead.

Organised chaos starts an hour later when our six children, aged four to 20, descend. Time for that morning cuddle, breakfast and a packed lunch for everyone. Two of our children drive themselves to college, I drop one to the train and my husband drops our three ‘smallies’ to school.

8am

At work I treat patients with a variety of conditions including vestibular disorders, musculoskeletal, foot biomechanical abnormalities, paediatrics and women’s health. Treating patients with vestibular disorders is a significant part of my day. The vestibular system consists of the part of the inner ear and brain that control balance. These patients can suffer from vertigo, dizziness, poor balance and difficulty concentrating. People are often of the belief that they suffer from a condition called ‘vertigo’, which is in fact a symptom, not a diagnosis. They go undiagnosed for years, incorrectly thinking that their only choice is to live with it. I diagnose the cause, then treat it using Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, including specific manoeuvres, exercise-based programmes and lifestyle guidance. I work with the Vestibular Disorders Association of America, VEDA (vestibular.org), of which I am a member, to raise awareness about vestibular disorders.

11am

I refuel with a banana, a bottle of water and a coffee and go through emails, diary and queries with my secretary. Then back to patients. I’m a ‘hands-on’ physiotherapist, using manual techniques in the care of all my patients. Education is also a significant part of treatment, allowing the patient to successfully manage their condition at home.

1pm

I get through some paperwork while I have a quick bite to eat. I link in with VEDA to compile articles on vestibular disorders and balance awareness, prepare lectures for GP Continuing Medical Education (CME) groups on vestibular testing and rehabilitation and back care talks for local community-based groups.

3pm

First school collection before heading home to our precious childminder who has already collected Amy, our youngest, from pre-school. Our three older kids and my husband arrive home at various times.

6pm

The family meal is one of the most important times of the day when we have time out together. Evenings are filled with dropping and collecting the kids to different activities.

• Sheila Barrett is a chartered physiotherapist, East Cork Physiotherapy and Acupuncture Clinic.