Therapydia Saratoga Physical Therapist Shanice Lowe takes some time to talk Insanity workouts, Harry Potter, and the amazing personal connections she’s made working as a PT.
When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?
I was receiving my own physical therapy treatment for the first time at age 12. I was recovering from a back injury and going to physical therapy turned into something I looked forward to because I knew it would allow me to get back to doing gymnastics. During this time, multiple medical providers told me to simply stop doing the sport because then I would avoid getting hurt but giving up the sport that I love was not an option in my mind. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a physical therapist to help other people get back to doing the things they love.
What surprised you the most about the physical therapy profession?
The amazing connections it has allowed me to make with people of many different backgrounds, interests and fitness levels. I have met so many people through my work that have touched my life in unexpected ways, inspiring me and helping me to grow as a therapist and as a person.
How do you like to stay active?
I love to run with my dog, Rocket, do Insanity workouts in my garage and sweat it out in Pilates reformer classes.
What is the biggest challenge involved in being a PT?
Managing insurance limitations can sometimes make it difficult for patients to receive the care they need.
What’s your favorite song to get you motivated?
“Can’t Stop the Feeling,” by Justin Timberlake. It makes me want to dance and always gets me moving!
Are you currently pursuing any further education or certifications?
I plan to pursue additional education in nutrition, earn my Orthopedic Specialist Certification, become a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and explore techniques offered by the Postural Restoration Institute.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
Sausage and egg breakfast casserole. I make a big one at the beginning of each week. Perfect for on the go.
What do you wish everyone knew about PT?
Physical therapy is not just about rehabilitating an injury or recovering from a surgery. Physical therapy is about optimizing your health through developing better movement strategies, correcting imbalances in strength, flexibility, and control, and enhancing your performance for whatever it is you love to do!
In your opinion, what is the most important personality trait that a PT must have?
A physical therapist must be a good listener. It is crucial that we really HEAR our patients in order to have a full picture of what they need to achieve all of their goals. That way, we become partners on their journey to achieve optimal function and wellness.
What do you do to de-stress/unwind?
To unwind, I like to hike with my husband, watch movies, cuddle with our pup and listen to audiobooks. Re-reading/listening to the Harry Potter books is a go-to for me for stress relief; they make me so happy.
Finish this sentence: On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me…
Running around our neighborhood with our dog, Rocket, then either going on an adventure with my husband, Ryan, or kicking back on the couch.
What is the best piece of wellness advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve heard is to treat your health like the oxygen mask demo on airplanes: you have to put on your own mask before you can help anyone else. In other words, make your own health a priority to free yourself to do everything else that is important to you.
