William Person PT, FAAOMPT is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist helping patients get back on their feet. Will spared a few minutes of his busy schedule at our new Dominion Crossing location to tell us about his passion for Physical Therapy (PT).
“If all you have is a hammer, then everything looks like a nail. Keep your toolbox full!”
What certifications do you have / what do you specialize in?
I completed a clinical Fellowship Program in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy with The Manual Therapy Institute (MTI) based in Austin TX and have earned the designation of Fellow from the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists. This quote from the MTI website answers what I “specialize in” very well…
“The Manual Therapy Institute’s mission is to educate movement experts. To achieve this we believe our graduates need to show mastery of the following 7 domains:
- Advanced problem solving
- Joint mobilization/manipulation
- Soft tissue mobilization
- Treatment of Adverse Neural Tension
- Evaluation/treatment of muscle imbalance
- Tissue specific exercise prescription
- Patient education
The program incorporates current best evidence with a model that describes how changes in function can lead to restricted movement and complaints of pain. This model focuses on the cause of the problem rather than the symptoms, which facilitates an effective treatment plan for your patients.”
What made you want to be a PT / Where does your passion for PT come from?
I was exposed to PT while in high school. I had an accident and sustained 2nd/3rd degrees burns to my arms and face. I went to PT to have my wounds debrided.
Passion for PT comes from how my parents raised me; instilling in me the importance of God, Family, and a strong work ethic that carries over to people that I treat on a daily basis.
What are some non-clinical skills you feel that you’ve developed from being a PT?
Working with patients I have learned to be a better listener. That skill has helped me become a better clinician.
What is your go-to phrase or quote you say to your patients to motivate them?
“Do or Do Not…there is no Try”. My advice would be give PT your best effort and be prepared to be amazed by the results you experience!
Who should see a physical therapist?
Hah…who shouldn’t see a PT? Anyone that has any type of pain or discomfort from head to toe could benefit from seeing a PT.
What is the most common pain patients seek PT for relieve?
The most common thing we see is pain related to the low back and neck.
What can PT do that most people are unaware of?
A properly trained PT can do all of the joint mobilizations/manipulations from head to toe.
For patients that want to visit the Dominion Crossing location, what can they expect?
A great view and a great experience. The trees in the parking lot attract all sorts of wildlife including tree ducks and squirrels!
What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing Physical Therapy as a career?
I would tell them to work on their communication skills. If the most skilled PT out there isn’t able to communicate it will be extremely difficult to gain your patient’s trust and help them achieve their goals.
If you are having pain, ask your doctor to refer you to Momentum Physical Therapy. Call or visit any of our 12 locations in San Antonio and surrounding areas and we will get you the help you need.
