What exactly is physical therapy/what does a physical therapist do?
- A physical therapist is an individual who is educated in the field of human anatomy & physiology, biomechanics, and pathology. This specialized knowledge allows physical therapy to be a powerful tool that can positively influence human function and minimize pain. A physical therapist can utilize multiple approaches and techniques to address dysfunction...exercise prescription, manual therapy (soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, stretching), balance and stability training, gait analysis, lifting/postural mechanics, to name a few.
Are you licensed? What are your qualifications?
- Yes. I am a licensed PT in the state of Indiana by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. My license number is 05009314A. I have been licensed since June of 2007. I received my Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of Indianapolis. I am also a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). I have had this certification since April of 2006. I also have additional education and certifications in the Functional Movement Systems - The Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA), the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and the Y Balance Test. I am also certified in Dry needling through KinetaCore (2016) and Blood Flow Restriction Training through BStrong (2018).
Are you a good physical therapist?
- Yes, I'm awesome! Seriously though, I do strive to hear my patients out to know where they are coming from and what they want to accomplish. I continue to look at the latest research, as well as use my clinical experience to guide my treatments and exercise prescriptions. There are many fantastic PTs and other rehab and fitness professional out there, and I am constantly learning from many of them. Along the way, I continue to grow and my patients reap the benefits of that growth.
When Can I ... (Run, lift weights, get back to exercise/sport)?
- My answer is always the same. How do you move? Do you have pain? If the answers are that you move dysfunctionally and with pain, you will never hear me say, "Sure, go right ahead." But why not? After all, the things you want to get back to are all good for you and healthy activities, right?
- Foundation. That is why. Never build on shaky ground. Establish a solid foundation, and build from that. Never attempt to build fitness where there is pain or dysfunction. Trying to do "good things" before your body is ready really means the things you are regarding as good are actually bad.
