Get To Know Your PT: Tyler Lusignan

Tyler Lusignan, PT, DPT, talks about the biggest challenge involved with being a physical therapist, the continuing education he is pursing and the most important traits physical therapists should have.

My favorite piece of wellness advice to offer would be there are unfortunately no quick fixes, but the body’s ability to adapt and be resilient is amazing.

When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?

As I started to think about what I would do for my career, I knew I wanted to be around people and hopefully be a positive influence in their lives. As I began to streamline that thinking, I felt PT would allow me to do just that. Then, I tore my ACL/meniscus and received PT myself and the positive experience solidified my decision to pursue PT.

What’s your favorite song to get you motivated?

Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen

What is the biggest challenge involved in being a PT?

I feel the biggest but one of the most rewarding challenges is navigating the gray scale that is pain and constructively challenging an individual’s long-standing beliefs of why they are destined to have pain and shifting their mindset towards more of an optimistic and building resiliency narrative.

How do you like to stay active?

I like to work out 2-3x a week, go for a jog, ride my bike, and walk my dog to stay on top of my physical health.

What surprised you the most about the physical therapist profession?

I am most surprised by the general information gap of what exactly physical therapists can do to help individuals achieve their physical goals.

Are you currently pursuing any further education/certifications?

I am pursuing further education into Cor-Kinetic’s Functional Therapeutic Movement which delves into pain science and the biopsychosocial model approach to exercise.

What’s your go-to breakfast?

My two go-to breakfast options would be oatmeal with bananas or scrambled eggs and avocado

What do you wish everyone knew about PT? / What is the biggest misconception you hear from new patients?

I wish everyone knew PT is here to empower the patient and help them find that they have all the tools they need to return to a healthy lifestyle and we are here to guide you along the way.

What is the most important personality trait that a PT must have?

I feel the most important personality trait that a PT must have is the ability to truly listen. Often times individual’s stories are just brushed aside in a productivity centered model, but many times the individual just need to be heard to make a patient-first plan of care.

What do you do to de-stress/unwind?

I often will go work out or go for a walk with my dog.

Finish this sentence: On Saturday mornings, you can usually find me…

… making breakfast listening to music

What is your favorite piece of wellness advice to offer?

My favorite piece of wellness advice to offer would be there are unfortunately no quick fixes, but the body’s ability to adapt and be resilient is amazing. If you are willing to put in the work, with all the ups and downs that come with it, you will find that you can achieve exactly what you envisioned yourself to be.