Meet Your PT: Sonia Saini, PT, DPT, OCS
Therapydia Mid-City physical therapist Sonia Saini PT, DPT, OCS takes some time to share what surprised her most about physical therapy as a profession and her favorite way to unwind after a long day.
Motion is Lotion
When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?
When I was in highschool I used to take my grandma to her Physical Therapy appointments and I saw the relationship she developed with her PT (and they didn’t even speak the same language). Over time I witnessed the positive impact he had in her life and it made me want to dig deeper into the profession and here I am today.
What’s your favorite song to get you motivated?
“Get Low” by Lil Jon. Not your typical motivational song but it works for me every time!
What is the biggest challenge involved in being a PT?
The research is constantly changing and we are continually finding the things we may have learned in school or in prior research may no longer be valid or as effective. But, I see this as a positive thing because it prevents us as a profession from being complacent and forces us to stay on our toes and keep growing.
How do you like to stay active?
I am originally from California and one of my favorite things to do is hike because I love being outdoors. But, running is and will always be my first love and go to for exercise.
What surprised you the most about the physical therapist profession?
What surprised me the most is how many people do not know the level of education Physical Therapists have. We have to go through a rigorous doctorate level program and at the end of it develop a solid foundation and clinical knowledge base to treat our patients. Additionally, we are able to be specialized in a variety of settings such as orthopedics, pediatrics, and neurology to name a few to better help many different patient populations.
Are you currently pursuing any further education/certifications?
I received my OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) this year. In the near future I would love to dive deeper into Concussion, Post-Cancer, and Women’s Health rehab.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
Greek yogurt with fruit and banana pancakes if I want to treat myself.
What do you wish everyone knew about physical therapy?
I wish everyone knew that Physical Therapy is not a quick fix and there is no magic pill to healing. It takes commitment, effort, and honesty by both the clinician and patient to get back on the road to recovery. In the process many wonderful long-lasting relationships are built.
What is the most important personality trait that a therapist must have?
Staying humble. It is important that no matter where a therapist is in their career or what specialities/certifications they may have that they always strive to learn and evolve not only for themselves but also for their patients.
What do you do to de-stress/unwind?
Spending time with my loved ones laughing and joking. If I am unable to do this, I prefer to be outdoors somewhere near the water to ease my mind.
Finish this sentence: On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me…
In the park jogging with my dog.
What is your favorite piece of wellness advice to offer?
Motion is Lotion. Outside of Physical Therapy, whatever makes your mind and body happy just do it because some movement is better than no movement as long as it makes you feel good!
Learn more about Sonia and the other Therapydia Mid-City physical therapists.
