Application of Exercise Physiology Concepts in an Outpatient Physical Therapy Setting
Advisor(s)
Dr. Scott Swanson- s-swanson@onu.edu
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Paper
Location
ONU McIntosh Center; Ballroom
Start Date
21-4-2026 3:00 PM
End Date
21-4-2026 3:15 PM
Abstract
This presentation reflects on a nine-week internship experience at Back on Track Therapy and Wellness and its influence on professional development and career goals in physical therapy. Entering Ohio Northern University with an interest in exercise science and a strong intent to pursue physical therapy, coursework in therapeutic interventions and orthopedic taping raised questions about the practical application of learned skills. This internship provided clarity by demonstrating how those skills translate into real-world clinical practice. Through hands-on observation and gradual involvement in patient care, the experience highlighted the value of initiative, adaptability, and patient-centered treatment. Working closely with a supervising physical therapist, the internship emphasized individualized plans of care and the strategic use of modalities such as blood flow restriction therapy, kinesiology taping, electrical stimulation, dry needling, and AlterG treadmill training to enhance recovery without compromising care quality. Exposure to specialized practice areas, including vestibular rehabilitation, expanded understanding of the diverse roles physical therapists can assume within healthcare. Interacting with a wide range of patients—from those recovering from traumatic injuries to individuals managing chronic conditions—reinforced the importance of empathy, flexibility, and holistic consideration of physical and psychosocial factors affecting rehabilitation. The internship also reinforced academic knowledge through clinical application, including PNF stretching, vital sign monitoring, and collaborative problem-solving among therapists. Overall, this experience strengthened the desire to pursue a career in physical therapy, particularly within a smaller clinic setting that prioritizes continuity of care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and meaningful patient relationships. The internship affirmed physical therapy as a profession focused not only on rehabilitation but also on long-term patient empowerment and quality of life.
Recommended Citation
Prusnek, Katie C., "Application of Exercise Physiology Concepts in an Outpatient Physical Therapy Setting" (2026). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 27.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2026/Papers/27
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Application of Exercise Physiology Concepts in an Outpatient Physical Therapy Setting
ONU McIntosh Center; Ballroom
This presentation reflects on a nine-week internship experience at Back on Track Therapy and Wellness and its influence on professional development and career goals in physical therapy. Entering Ohio Northern University with an interest in exercise science and a strong intent to pursue physical therapy, coursework in therapeutic interventions and orthopedic taping raised questions about the practical application of learned skills. This internship provided clarity by demonstrating how those skills translate into real-world clinical practice. Through hands-on observation and gradual involvement in patient care, the experience highlighted the value of initiative, adaptability, and patient-centered treatment. Working closely with a supervising physical therapist, the internship emphasized individualized plans of care and the strategic use of modalities such as blood flow restriction therapy, kinesiology taping, electrical stimulation, dry needling, and AlterG treadmill training to enhance recovery without compromising care quality. Exposure to specialized practice areas, including vestibular rehabilitation, expanded understanding of the diverse roles physical therapists can assume within healthcare. Interacting with a wide range of patients—from those recovering from traumatic injuries to individuals managing chronic conditions—reinforced the importance of empathy, flexibility, and holistic consideration of physical and psychosocial factors affecting rehabilitation. The internship also reinforced academic knowledge through clinical application, including PNF stretching, vital sign monitoring, and collaborative problem-solving among therapists. Overall, this experience strengthened the desire to pursue a career in physical therapy, particularly within a smaller clinic setting that prioritizes continuity of care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and meaningful patient relationships. The internship affirmed physical therapy as a profession focused not only on rehabilitation but also on long-term patient empowerment and quality of life.