In my practicum, I had the incredible opportunity to shadow practitioners at True Sports Physical Therapy and Ortho Maryland, both of which are well-respected in orthopedic care and sports injury recovery. True Sports Physical Therapy is a leading Physical Therapy clinic, in which there are seventeen locations across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Ortho Maryland is a full-service orthopedic practice that offers both non-operative and operative care for a full range of Orthopedic issues by a team of Orthopedic surgeons, physician assistants, and support staff. One of the biggest things I took away from this agency experience was how natural and physical sciences are applied within a healthcare setting, and it can affect not only physical recovery, but the quality of life for a patient.
I received my practicum placement through connections. My mom was acquainted professionally with the head of the PA system at Ortho Maryland, Michelle Auster, and the Physical Therapist, Sarah Musselman at True Sports helped heal my mom with her ankle injury. These were established connections, which made it easier to set up shadowing. I would suggest to future SGC Scholars to utilize his or her personal and family network for practicum sites. Feel free to contact family friends, former healthcare providers, professors or even past employers. If you find a potential site, you need to send them a professional email to introduce yourself and explain your academic goals, interests, and why you would like to work with them on your practicum. Picking up the phone or stopping in by in-person visit can also show your enthusiasm and help solidify the opportunity. Many positions, particularly shadowing positions in healthcare, will not be posted, so perseverance and professional communication are critical.
At True Sports Physical Therapy, my primary duty was to observe physical therapists in treatment sessions with patients. I observed therapists create custom, one-of-a-kind rehab programs based on every patient’s individualized needs and goals. I watched manual techniques and supervised exercise programs. I was involved in setting up treatment areas and took part in assisting patients with minor exercises to help their movement. My role was more of an observer at Ortho Maryland. During patient evaluations and follow ups, I shadowed PAs and Doctors. I saw how clinicians diagnose musculoskeletal injuries, have conversations about treatment options, and look at diagnostic imaging such as MRIs and X-rays. I also watched doctors communicate medical information to patients in a way that is accessible and kind, making people feel informed.
During this practicum, I gained a better knowledge about human biology, anatomy, kinesiology, and biomechanics. I learned how these scientific principles are used in diagnosing injuries, designing rehabilitation programs, and for the progression of the patients receiving treatment. It exposed me to cutting edge treatments like blood flow restriction therapy and neuromuscular electrical stimulation, innovations in bioengineering and physiology that can speed up recovery. The therapists and doctors working together reinforced how there is no one size fits all treatment plan. I also learned about the psychological aspect of health care that is not covered by physical sciences. The psychological strength, determination, and emotional health of these patients often plays a vital role in their recovery.
Academically, my practicum helped me to better understand the broader implications of science. Much later in life, these experiences exposed me to the notion that science must be approached in its full social and human dimension. Professionally, the practicum also assisted me to further focus and refine my career long term goals. At first, I thought I would take the traditional medical route as a career, but as I observed the team approach and problem-solving in PT and orthopedics, it changed my mind. In my career, I will engage with teams to market and expand new ventures focused on addressing climate change and other environmental issues.
Personally, the practicum provided for personal growth and new perspectives. I learned how important empathy and communication are in science and medicine. It is these human aspects of science and medicine that often dictate whether treatments work and how patients fare. Thinking back on my practicum, I would recommend future Scholars approach mentorship opportunities with curiosity and openness. Ask questions, seek feedback, and take time to reflect on how the experience aligns with your goals. Technical skill and scientific knowledge are useful, but the power to genuinely understand and connect with people, and use that knowledge to make the world better, is critical. My experience in the practicum at True Sports Physical Therapy and Ortho Maryland has enriched my learning and hands-on practice, and has provided me with wisdom that will direct my academic career and my professional future.