Week 2: Growth & Connection
This past week of my internship was a neat and unique experience. It was filled with a variety of cases that challenged me to think critically, empathize with patients, and understand the complexities of physical therapy. I’ve learned valuable lessons from each patient interaction, which has increased my appreciation for this field.
One of the most impactful experiences was working with a young man who had lost his leg in a motorcycle accident. Despite the severe nature of his injury, his optimism and determination was truly inspiring. He was eager to engage with everyone in the clinic, and his love for farming was evident in the way he talked about returning to work just a week after the accident. His resilience reminded me of the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, regardless of circumstances.
Witnessing his progress in mobility and strength training as he prepared to receive a prosthetic leg was a humbling experience that reinforced my gratitude for my own health and motivated me to have a more positive outlook in life.
Throughout the week, I encountered patients with a wide range of injuries and conditions, from ACL tears and meniscus injuries to post-surgical knee replacements. One recurring theme was the importance of patience, both on the part of the therapist and the patient. Recovery is often a slow process, and every patient has their own unique path to healing. Whether working with a high school athlete recovering from an ankle sprain or an elderly patient struggling with balance, I saw how each individual’s therapy must be adapted to their specific needs and progress. This experience taught me the value of adaptability and creativity in designing treatment plans.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the week was building relationships with patients I had seen before. As I became more familiar with their stories, I found that the connections I made with them added another layer of fulfillment to the internship. Whether it was a high school athlete or an elderly man working on his balance, these relationships made the clinical environment more enjoyable and meaningful. It became clear to me that physical therapy is not just about treating injuries, but also about creating a sense of support and trust between the therapist and the patient. 
I also learned that understanding the human side of physical therapy is just as important as mastering the technical skills. Several patients, especially the older ones, shared personal stories about their lives, and I found that these conversations helped ease the discomfort of therapy. For example, one elderly man who comes in regularly for knee pain often discusses his family, and it is clear that this connection gives him something to look forward to during his sessions. I have come to realize that these moments of human connection are vital to the healing process and can have a lasting impact on the patient’s overall experience.
I also observed more advanced therapeutic techniques, such as dry needling and wound care. Watching the therapists apply these specialized treatments gave me a deeper understanding of the range of skills required in physical therapy. These techniques are often used to address pain and inflammation, and I saw firsthand how they can enhance the overall treatment plan for certain patients. These methods are very interesting and make me want to learn more about these methods as I move forward in my education.
As the internship continues, I feel more confident in my abilities and knowledge. My background in exercise science has been a strong foundation, but these weeks of hands-on experience have shown me how much more there is to learn. I’m grateful for the therapists who have taken the time to explain their approaches and encourage my participation in patient care. This week has solidified my commitment to the field of physical therapy, not only because of the technical knowledge I am gaining but also because of the relationships I’m building with patients and colleagues alike. This week was filled with powerful learning moments that will stay with me as I continue on my journey to becoming a physical therapist. The blend of technical skill, human connection, and personal growth has made this internship an incredibly rewarding experience.