Therapydia Pearlridge Clinic Director Justen Hinerman, PT, DPT, takes some time to talk about his love of the beach, the importance of empathy, and how a football injury led to a career in PT.
When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?
When I was a senior in high school. I injured my ankle while playing football and spent some time doing PT in order to get ready each week to play. I never missed a game and I owed it all to my PT. I knew then that I wanted to make an impact in other people’s lives just like she did mine.
What surprised you most about the physical therapy profession?
The ability of our profession to evolve. The practice of physical therapy, especially over the past 10 years, looks significantly different than it used to.
How do you like to stay active?
I’ve been doing CrossFit for the past four years. I also like to hike, paddleboard, snorkel, and really anything that gets me outside.
What is the biggest challenge involved in being a PT?
Insurance authorization. It seems, each year, working with insurance companies has become more and more challenging. Every patient’s benefits are different, so keeping that in mind as you create their plan of care is a must.
What’s your favorite song to get you motivated?
“Till I Collapse” by Eminem.
Are you currently pursuing any further education/certifications?
Future plans include pursuing my Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) certification.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
Peanut butter banana wrap and a protein shake.
In your opinion, what’s the most important personality trait that a PT must have?
They must be caring. Generally when people come to see you they are not feeling their best. We as PTs need to be able to empathize and understand the difficulties this person’s impairments are causing them. Being a PT requires treating the whole person and not just a specific part.
What do you do to de-stress/unwind?
Generally, I go to the gym. On the weekends when I lived in Kentucky, I would visit my parents at their cabin in the woods. Now that I’m living in Hawaii, my wife and I enjoy a day at the beach.
Finish this sentence: On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me…
On the beach! I couldn’t ask for a better way to spend my weekends but right next to the ocean.
What is your favorite piece of wellness advice?
Just move! There are so many avenues in which you can stay active these days. Pick something you enjoy and stick with it!
