Therapydia Vancouver Clinic Director Adria Biasi, PT, DPT, takes some time to talk running outdoors, the power of manual therapy, and playing with her four dogs.
When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?
The idea first crossed my mind when I went from dreading the mile run test in high school to running and strength training as a regular routine in college. I noticed the benefits that exercise had, both physically and mentally. A year or so later I was treated by a Physical Therapist that was practicing a manual therapy technique called Strain Counterstrain. After a few sessions I went from barely being able to run 1 pain free mile to running 5 miles without pain. I was set on pursuing a career in Physical Therapy after that.
What’s your favorite song to get you motivated?
At 13.1 miles at the Boston Marathon last year, they played Zedd, “The Middle”. It put a big smile on my face and I thought it was perfect that they were playing the song right at the half way point in the marathon. Since then this song has been my go-to for running motivation. A great song and memory.
What is the biggest challenge involved in being a PT?
How poorly our profession is marketed to the general public. I once worked at a place where a member of the back office staff did not even think of scheduling an appointment at her own place of work for her neck pain after a car accident.
How do you like to stay active?
Running outdoors, CrossFit, and playing with my 4 dogs.
What surprised you the most about the physical therapist profession?
How many different paths can be taken to arrive at the same end goal; get our patients’ happy, healthy, and back to whatever it is they need to do. Every patient is a different puzzle and all therapists have a unique perspective on how to help. We aren’t just treating an elbow or an ankle, but we are assessing how the rest of the body is working, moving, and ultimately impacting the area that is bothering the patient. You don’t realize this until after school when you get to work in the clinic with patients and co-workers.
Are you currently pursuing any further education/certifications?
I just completed the Orthopedic Certified Specialist exam and I am waiting for my results. My next goal is to expand my training in Vestibular Rehabilitation. I have also completed all of the manual therapy courses needed to be able to obtain my Manual Therapy Certification and may be going through this testing soon.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
On a work day, coffee and eggs with cheese. On the weekend, coffee and a Mexican style omelet or oatmeal and peanut butter.
What do you wish everyone knew about PT?
I wish more people knew that we have our Doctorates in Physical Therapy and that means that we are experts in anatomy and bio-mechanics of the human body. We are great listeners and problem solvers and want to help you. We are not here to put you through a cookie-cutter style approach to your care but we are here to create a specific, specialized plan created for you and your own injuries and goals. Don’t be scared of us!
What is the most important personality trait that a PT must have?
Compassion, having the ability to truly hear your patient’s story and to have the want and desire to help them.
What do you do to de-stress/unwind?
Running will always be my number one way to de-stress. But I sure do love a good cuddle session with my dogs on the couch with a good book and coffee
Finish this sentence: On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me…
On a long run with loud music, chewing Strawberry Orbit gum, no matter the weather!
What is your favorite piece of wellness advice?
It is not about being good at something but about being good to yourself.
