I think I took a rather unconventional route to become a physiotherapist. Unlike many of my colleagues, I didn’t play many sports growing up or sustain many injuries that required me to go to physiotherapy.
Just before entering post-secondary, I had a major spinal operation to correct scoliosis (curvature of the spine). I had fantastic care following my surgery and was discharged home with a single printed page with my post-surgical instructions. I was told to move my neck and was given the dates when I could drive and lift again. And that was IT!
Throughout my recovery, I kept thinking there had to be more to it- how do I restrengthen the muscles supporting my back, what other areas will start to compensate, and how do I prevent injury in the future? I had so many questions that I didn’t know how to answer or who to go to for an answer. I went into my Bachelor of Health Sciences Degree to become someone who could help people answer those sorts of questions.
Throughout my degree, I had the opportunity to engage in research with Medical Doctors, Geneticists, and Physiotherapists, as well as job shadow these professionals. Within minutes of shadowing a physiotherapist- watching their physical assessment, hearing the education they provided, and how they planned to help their client achieve their goals, I knew that was exactly what I was looking for.
In completing my Honours Thesis for my Bachelor’s Degree, I had the incredible opportunity to research with Dr. Kathryn Schneider, a Clinical Specialist and Scientist with research focussing on the assessment and treatment of headaches, dizziness, and neck pain following concussions. Dr. Schneider helped further grow my passion for physiotherapy and kick-started my interest in concussion assessment, treatment and prevention.
In the last year of my undergraduate degree, I met my now husband, Max, who was playing for the U of C Dino’s Hockey team. Knowing he would always need physiotherapy and concussion prevention, it was a great fit with my chosen career!
I continued to complete my Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Alberta and followed my husband back to his home in Vernon. Having most recently lived in Edmonton, it was a no-brainer to move to the Okanagan (nothing against Edmonton…, well maybe just a tiny bit).
While I am usually inside cuddling my 14-year-old dachshund-chihuahua Min, painting, reading Harry Potter, or playing video games, I have loved getting to know all that Vernon and the Okanagan outdoors have to offer!! (Great location recommendations for paddleboarding are accepted and appreciated!)
I love being a physiotherapist. I love getting to know every one of my client’s stories and passions and supporting them as they work toward their goals. I also love learning and passing along my knowledge. After the lacklustre information following my surgery, I ensure that education is a significant component of all my clients’ treatment plans. I have a particular interest and training in working with vertigo, dizziness, and concussion rehabilitation.
Everyone at Easthill Physio shares a common set of values and an incredibly high care standard, making it such a fun and easy place to work!
Book an appointment with Paiten here.
