Physical therapy plays an important role in a patient’s journey by helping them recover their strength after surgery. Physical therapy can also help patients avoid surgery all together with injury treatment and prevention. Physical therapy can work in tandem with other medical needs such as pain management as well.
Whatever the situation, physical therapists take on the task of leading patients through treatment plans that work best for their medical needs.
Emily Houchins is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) of both the upper and lower extremities who works for Bon Secours out of Virginia Beach’s Town Center. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Exercise, Sport and Health Education at Radford University, she went on to obtain her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Dominion University.
“I became a physical therapist initially to treat athletes who were trying to return to sports after an injury,” says Emily. “However, as I began to see all the positive impacts physical therapy and rehab can have on all types of people, I decided to focus my skills on treating patients affected by cancer and lymphedema.”
Cancer affects almost every person in our society, either directly or indirectly. Emily finds being on a care team for a person going through cancer treatment to be very rewarding. From diagnosis and treatment, to survivorship, Emily uses her skills as a physical therapist to positively affect people’s outlook.
“My favorite thing about being a physical therapist is helping patients reach their goals,” says Emily.
This includes improving a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks as well as having a positive impact on their overall quality of life.
While Emily is passionate about her career, she also has hobbies she enjoys in her free time.
“On the weekends, I love spending time with friends and family,” says Emily. “I also enjoy taking walks on the beach with my dog, Dobby, and playing co-ed softball.”
