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Home About CGH Hospital Overview CGH 90th Anniversary Care Grows Here Empowering Recovery Through the Movement of Care

Empowering Recovery Through the Movement of Care

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Care flourishes at Changi General Hospital (CGH) with the dedication of our care team, who journey alongside patients at every stage to recovery. For those recovering from spine surgery, the most daunting moment comes after the procedure when they take their first steps again. This critical stage of recovery is where Principal Physiotherapist Samantha Foo and her team step in, guiding patients with compassion and steady support.

Samantha shares on her role as a Principal Physiotherapist at CGH.

With nearly 12 years of experience, Samantha cares for patients in the inpatient wards, supporting those recovering from spine surgeries, joint replacements, hip fractures, or sports-related procedures. Her role goes far beyond guiding exercises — she helps patients regain independence, rebuild confidence, and transition safely from hospital to home.

“Patients often do not realise how important physiotherapy is after surgery,” Samantha shares. “It’s not just about being told they can move. It’s about how they move safely, when they can move, and what support they need, whether that’s physical assistance, walking aids, pain management, or just reassurance and encouragement.”

Samantha shares about helping patients rebuild confidence and regain independence after surgery.

Working closely with the hospital’s surgeons, nurses, and occupational therapists, Samantha ensures every aspect of rehabilitation is seamless. This collaborative approach minimises patient anxiety and creates a smoother recovery process.

“When communication is open across teams, patients feel less overwhelmed because they don’t get asked the same questions repeatedly. Instead, they see one team working together for their recovery,” she explains.

Samantha also believes strongly in seeing beyond the patient file to maintain a personal touch, and takes the time to understand each patient’s unique situation—from their home environment to their fears and expectations.

“Some patients struggle more with fear than pain,” she notes. “That’s when education, reassurance, and encouragement are just as important as physical treatment.”

Her passion for physiotherapy was sparked by personal experience as a patient, recovering from sports injuries in her youth. Today, this dedication is fuelled by the joy of seeing patients achieve what seemed impossible to them.

“The best moments are when patients surprise themselves—when they thought they couldn’t move, but suddenly they’re walking. They get so excited, even asking us to take photos to share with their families. That’s what keeps me going.”

Outside work, Samantha shares on how sports help her build physical strength and resilience.

Outside of work, the Principal Physiotherapist runs, gyms, and practices Muay Thai – activities that help her build physical strength and mental resilience.

“Whether it is pushing the distance or punching a little harder, or getting hit back, it is a representation of getting hit and getting back up again.”

 

For Samantha, the hospital’s nurturing and collaborative culture has played a big role in her career at the Caring General Hospital. She continues to mentor younger physiotherapists, helping them grow into better clinicians.

“What’s unique here is the openness across all disciplines. Everyone has each other’s backs, which makes it easier to deliver the best care for patients.”

Read about how Samantha works with Senior Staff Nurse Koh Ree Yi to guide and support patients through their recovery after spine surgery here.
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