David Ramirez MPT, COMT is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association with a Master of Physical Therapy and a certification in Manual Therapy. David’s passion for Physical Therapy (PT) goes back to his teenage years. We wanted to learn more about his experience as part of the Momentum Physical Therapy team, and so here is what he shared with us:
“I’m here for YOU; to serve, heal, and educate so that you can get back to enjoying all the gifts of life.”
What certifications do you have?
I currently have a Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) with a specialization in the athletic population. I have earned and am awaiting official approval of a certification that identifies me as a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT). So, in short, I specialize in using my hands to treat patient’s injuries, especially the athletic population
What makes you happy in physical therapy?
It makes me happy to solve seemingly complex issues and allow people to get back to doing the things they love the most. The ability to have that sort of impact on someone’s quality of life is priceless.
What are some non-clinical skills you feel that you’ve developed from being a PT?
I’ve learned how to read and respond to people’s needs. Everyone that walks through the door is different and should be treated as such. Their motivations, goals, mindset, etc… are all different. I’m trying to get the most out of every person that comes to see me. I try my best to get to know the person in front of me, so I can really tap into what makes them “tick.” The value of knowing how to motivate different types of people should be embraced and emphasized.
What is your go-to phrase to motivate your patients?
“You’ve got to move to improve!”
What advice would you give someone going to PT?
Bring a pen and paper and come ready to learn! One of the most important but under-valued aspects of PT is patient education. The more you know about your body, your injury, and how to avoid aggravating it is the best way to cure it and stay healthy. I’m not here to cure you, I’m here to teach you how to cure yourself!
What would you say to someone that might be considering Physical Therapy as a career path?
First off, I would say do it! You won’t regret it. I would then tell that person to find as many different physical therapy settings/clinics they can and go volunteer. Volunteering in various physical therapy settings will give you a good sense of what type of PT setting interests you most. Not only that, it gives you the opportunity to pick the brain of a PT.
For patients that want to visit the Westcreek Clinic what can they expect?
They can expect a fun, energetic, hard-working and compassionate group of people. You can also expect to sweat a little, so bring your H2O!
What are the most common issues you treat patients?
We see a great deal of patients for lower back and neck pain.
How should patients prepare for their first PT session?
Besides being ready to learn, I encourage our patients to really try to hone in on the “when, where, and how’s” of their injuries – when it bothers you, where it bothers you, how it started, etc… Your history is a very important part of the evaluation process because it helps to guide the rest of the evaluation and our treatments. A good history will help us get started on the right foot!
If you are having pain or discomfort due to a sport injury, ask your doctor if Physical Therapy is right for you. Call or visit any of our 12 Momentum Physical Therapy locations in San Antonio and surrounding areas and we will get you the help you need.