Nick Engel, PT DPT
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At least since this school assignment in 1990, I've wanted to “tell what the bones and muscles were.” I had an inherent motivation to learn about the body, so it came relatively naturally to me. And I think that makes it natural to want to share it. Who knows why particular things “grip” us, but health was just something that I have always wanted to understand. We spend more time at work than home, so it’s more important to find work that’s meaningful. People ask, “why didn’t you just become a surgeon?” Working ON someone like a machine seemed less interesting than working WITH someone. People are endlessly complex; more than just flesh and bone. I love to hear each person’s story as I get to share my gifts with them…so physical therapy just fit.
There is nothing more powerful for our health than being physically capable. Physical strength is more highly correlated to our mortality than blood pressure or cholesterol, and brings more longevity than altering those metrics can. The consequences of pain and weakness spirals into more pain and weakness, resulting in a more sedentary lifestyle. Exercise directly impacts those lab values, keeping us alive longer, and also helps us to more fully engage in life. How much better is it to get down on the floor and play with kids rather than watching from the couch. Being in the mountains are more enjoyable when you have the capacity to hike them. But more importantly, strength is also the thing that helps you get up off the floor if you fall down, and prepares your bones to prevent fractures. Fitness helps us live better, and I am so thankful to participate in that journey with my clients.
