I was 28 when I first walked into his room on the ninth floor of the university medical center — the neuro ward. As a newly graduated physical therapist, I was working at my first job in the field. I was there to evaluate “Matthew” for physical therapy, and I had all the right gear: a white lab coat, running shoes, a stethoscope, a clipboard, and a goniometer to measure joint angles — as well as an enthusiastic desire to help this young man function normally.
By using this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. To find out more visit our privacy policy.
Defining Moment: Healing the Little Brain
A physical therapist recalls a memorable patient and her struggles to make peace with the patient’s untimely death.
Date: April 1, 2025
Contact: aptamag@apta.org
Content Type: Column
Elizabeth Pimentel
You Might Also Like...
News
2025 Maley Lecturer: Movement Is 'Our Professional Lens'Aug 25, 2025
For the second year in a row, the John H.P. Maley Lecture was all about the movement system. Nancy Bloom, PT, DPT, MSOT, gave the 2025 lecture with the
Members Only
Car Rental Discount Program for APTA MembersAug 25, 2025
APTA members can save with Avis and Budget.
News
Now Available: APTA Practice Advisory on Extracorporeal Shockwave TherapyAug 18, 2025
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or ESWT, is emerging as a noninvasive treatment option in physical therapy. ESWT utilizes sound waves to relieve pain