Author: taleen.najarian
Empathy and compassion are values experienced early in my childhood. As my older brother had cerebral palsy, I witnessed first hand his journey through surgeries and rehabilitation. I not only played the role of little sister and side kick, but physical therapy assistant. ?As an avid athlete throughout my schooling, I battled injuries and the mental stress of sports performance in gymnastics and soccer. In high school, the perfect storm of events lead to a bout with an eating disorder. However, it was recovery that truly shaped me to be an empathetic and mindful practitioner today. It took a team of healthcare professionals to address all facets of the disorder, the psychological and the physical. I have had patient experiences with medical doctors, functional medicine doctors, chiropractors, psychologists, energy healers, and acupuncturists. Each encounter has taught me what type of practitioner I want, or do not want to be. My observations and frustrations with regard to the delivery of medicine, have fueled my desire to change traditional healthcare. As a graduate of Oakland University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2012, I emphasize the importance of manual therapy in practice. I have continued to develop skills in soft tissue therapy, dry needling, applied kinesiology, nutrition, and strength training. I also take great enjoyment in being a teaching assistant in the Physical Therapy Department at Oakland University. My approach to treatment is to consider the entire person; encompassing all body-systems, as well as the mental aspects of injury and dysfunction. As an experienced physical therapist based in Troy, my patients appreciate the warmth, professional integrity, and open communication that define my private practice. I’m determined to help my patients understand their own health and achieve a greater state of full body wellness. ?Performance Physical Therapy is committed to healing patients with fewer visits. This is achieved through individualized sessions, including but not limited to manual therapy, joint mobilizations, and dry needling.