What inspired you to pursue a career in physical therapy?
I have played soccer since I was five years old, and I have had many different musculoskeletal injuries since that time. When I was twelve years old, I began experiencing significant pain in both of my heels, so my mom took me to physical therapy. This was my first time attending PT, but it made a huge difference for me and enabled me to continue to play the sport that I love. I went on to play soccer in high school and college and completed many additional courses of physical therapy to recover from various injuries that I incurred along the way. I loved how physical therapy gave me the knowledge and tools to manage my ailments and return to the field each time, and I became passionate about doing the same thing for others. I love working to help people resume their desired activities, whether it is an athletic activity or a simple daily task that they are currently unable to do. It brings me so much joy to help guide my patients to a healthier and more capable version of themselves.
How do you customize treatment plans for your patients?
First, I sit down with each of my patients and listen as they share the relevant history of their current condition or injury. Then, I ask each individual to tell me their personal goals for physical therapy so that we are both on the same page about what we are trying to accomplish. Next, I perform an initial evaluation and assess for any strength, range of motion, flexibility, or functional deficits that are impairing my patient from being able to accomplish their unique goals. From there, I construct a treatment plan that addresses these impairments. I like to include exercises that are functional and applicable to everyday activities in my treatment plans, and I also like to vary the exercises from session to session to keep it interesting and engaging.
In your opinion, what is the key to a successful patient-therapist relationship?
In my opinion, open communication is the key to a successful patient-therapist relationship. I feel that it is very important for the patient to be able to voice any concerns, difficulties, or questions that they have throughout the physical therapy process, and I strongly encourage my patients to do this. Open communication regarding the improvement or regression of symptoms is also vital for the patient and therapist to communicate about, as this allows the treatment plan to be adjusted in a manner that is most beneficial for the patient. In my eyes, the patient and therapist are two members of one team working towards a common goal, and honest communication between both members is crucial to achieving a winning outcome.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work to maintain your own physical and mental well-being?
I play soccer in adult co-ed leagues and I also enjoy going to the gym, running, biking, and hiking. I practice somatic yoga and deep breathing as well, which help to maintain both my physical and mental wellbeing. Finally, I make it a priority to spend quality time with my family, friends, and loved ones who always brighten my day!
What advice would you give to someone considering physical therapy as a solution to their health concerns?
I would strongly recommend formal physical therapy to anyone looking to improve their health! Physical therapy can not only improve your motion, strength, and overall functional capacity in the short term, but it can also provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to manage your musculoskeletal conditions on your own in the long term. As PTs, we can help to uncover the root causes of your complaints and provide you with a personal plan to address them. Thus, physical therapy can not only positively influence your physical health, but it can enhance your emotional and mental health as well.
