Question and answer with Elizabeth
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Elizabeth Schuessler PT, DPT
Elizabeth is a graduate from Marquette University. She is originally from the western suburbs of Chicago, but while completing her undergraduate and graduate studies at Marquette University, she grew to love the city of Milwaukee. Throughout PT school she had clinical rotations in several outpatient orthopedic settings, as well as inpatient experience working on acute floors and inpatient rehab unit in a hospital setting. She is familiar with treating orthopedic conditions, neurological deficits, and sports injuries. She had one of her clinical rotations at Health in Balance PT and fell in love with the practice’s focus on treating the whole patient rather than the deficit or injury presented, as well as the time allowed for one-on-one treatment and individualized care. She is thrilled to be joining the team!
What have been the highlights along your professional journey thus far?
While attending PT school at Marquette University, I was a leader in the ComMUnity Pro Bono PT Clinic, where I learned the importance of meeting each and every patient where they are at in their recovery journey. While volunteering at the clinic, I was able to learn alongside my many patients, who were of various socio-economical, cultural, and religious backgrounds, how to approach treatment in ways that worked best for them. One highlight for me is when a patient has their “a-ha” moment; not only does treatment begin to progress, but so does their understanding in what we are working towards accomplishing.
What can a patient expect from a physical therapy session with you?
Something I am diligent about is listening to my patients and ensuring that they feel heard and understood. During your first PT session, and subsequent follow-up treatment sessions, I take the time to get to know each patient and what is important to them in their recovery and daily lives. In the world of PT, we are given the gift of time to spend with each patient that few other healthcare professions are given. With this time, I focus on working alongside the patient to collectively progress towards achieving goals that are important to the patient. Additionally, I believe that education is a key factor to success, as it gives what we do a purpose. I spend time educating each patient on what is happening in their body, why it might be happening, and what changes we can make.
What do you do to stay healthy and well?
I am a believer in variety being the spice of life. I enjoy a balance of strength training, cardio, and stretching; and find that my body feels it’s best when I am best able to balance all three into a workout, or throughout my week. I am a fan of formal exercise classes particularly spin, yoga, and group strength training; but also appreciate time to myself to work on whatever my body needs. I am also an avid cook and appreciate a homemade meal. That way I can make sure what I am eating is fresh and healthy!
What are your favorite hobbies/things to do?
In my free time, you can find me exploring all that Milwaukee has to offer! I also spend a lot of my time outdoors doing things like bike riding, hiking, going for a walk, skiing, or simply relaxing outside. I am a big sports fan, I take pride in cooking a well-balanced meal, and enjoy unwinding by spending time with my family and friends.