A patient who increases range and strength, experiences a decreased level of pain, and is able to resume previous functional and recreational activities, will let every friend know how they got there and who helped them get there. Having a passion for a particular form of treatment OR having personal experience with a specific disability offers an insight into its rehabilitation that goes beyond textbook learning. My knowledge of electric stimulation, as well as an avid desire to assist others of similar disability, and the ability to be an educational resource for other therapists who see post surgical facial paralysis as well as Bell's Palsy patients, encouraged me to explore this particular area of rehab. Currently, I am spending time with the neuro-otologist that performed my surgery. I believe I am well positioned to assist them in decreasing the devastating impact of facial paralysis and balance issues.
Adversity creates opportunity.
Physical Therapists are inherently good teachers. Each patient provides an opportunity to enlighten, train and facilitate the recuperative phase of rehabilitation. The ability to break an activity or concept into small and easily understandable portions so that patients easily comprehend anatomical information and home instructions is an unsung quality that therapists take for granted. Assist in teaching at local Universities and Community Colleges that teach health related classes and pre-Physical Therapy classes. Most companies and their sales reps appreciate the hands on experience many PTs have.