Alicia M. Byrne MS, PT

What made you want to become a health care provider or what is your earliest memory of wanting to be one?

I realized I wanted to become a physical therapist through my participation in team sports while in grade school, throughout my college career, as well as when working in special education when I observed PTs at work in a school setting. I was interested in the range of roles that a PT plays and that this profession involves scientific knowledge, ability to educate others, as well as knowledge of sports and exercise to help others.

What do you love most about your specialty? / Why did you choose your specialty?

I enjoy being a physical therapist because not only do I help people to recover with hands-on skills and exercises, but I have the opportunity to educate people about their bodies, their injuries, and how these things impact their individual lives. I love being able to interact between the patients and their physicians as a team.

How do you connect with your patients?

I connect with the patients through education and by devoting my time to listen to their goals, concerns, and questions. I strongly believe that a patient will recover more effectively if they are aware that physical therapy is a team effort which includes them and that they should play an active role in their rehabilitation.

What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?

In the summer I enjoy spending time on my boat, attending sporting events, and spending time with my family. I also love traveling to Cape Cod every year.

What is your advice for your patients?

My advice to patients is to provide feedback to their therapist, and other health care providers to optimize their recovery.