We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amy Osborne. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amy below.

Alright, Amy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

Like many of my peers, I got a “traditional” job as a physical therapist in an outpatient clinic upon graduation. I saw and treated a high volume of patients, and while I loved my job, I found myself conforming my treatments to a model that I knew wasn’t effective because we needed insurance to reimburse for the visits. Typically, most insurance plans will cover several physical therapy sessions each year, but due to their reimbursement rates clinics tend to shorten sessions in order to ensure that their practices are profitable. So many times, I’d be on the verge of a breakthrough moment with one of my patients and then the time would be up, and we’d lose the opportunity to make a lasting change. Given the cost of health insurance, I was reluctant to start a cash-pay practice, thinking that people already pay too much for healthcare. But, I knew that this model was limiting my ability to do my best work. It wasn’t until I had a significant injury that I was brave enough to make a change and start a cash-pay practice. Three years ago, I sustained a major injury to my back. So, I used my health care benefit to see a PT. My pain was so intense that I could hardly sit for more than 10 minutes before I had intense nerve pain in my leg. But, I endured the pain to drive 15 minutes to a session, where I received 30 minutes of care, simply to have my pain return by having to drive home. But, then I bit the bullet and started seeing a nearby PT who did not take insurance. He was able to see me for an hour, which meant, less visits to the clinic. Plus, I received the individualized care that I knew I needed. Within 6 weeks, I had made significant progress. Every penny I spent was worth it – not only did I have an improved quality of life, I had more time! Experiencing this model from the other perspective is what made me know that the quality of care I offer is worth the price.

Amy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a Denver native, I’d worked locally in the fitness industry since the age of 18. I loved empowering people and teaching them to optimize their movement. After earning my BS in Neuroscience from Regis University, I prepared to apply for medical school, anticipating that I’d pursue a career in neurology. I credit my college advisor for my path, as he encouraged me to take a year to get really clear on why I wanted to be in medicine. During that time, I continued to work as a fitness instructor and personal trainer and continued to find fulfillment in working with people. I’d never considered physical therapy until a client suggested it to me. I shadowed several PT’s and decided to pursue this career path, and ultimately enrolled and matriculated from Northwestern University in Chicago. I moved back to Denver in 2014 and worked in pelvic health and developed relationships with local OB/GYN’s to help pregnant and postpartum women. I also enjoyed working with orthopedists who treated patients with low back and hip pain. The more experience I gained, the more I realized that something was missing when it came to treating complex patients. So, I pursued education in the field of functional nutrition. Now, I incorporate functional and holistic nutrition and personal training, as well as PT modalities (like dry needling and visceral mobilization) to provide truly integrative physical care to those dealing with low back, hip and pelvic girdle pain or dysfunction.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Networking! I try to go above and beyond to meet and collaborate with other healthcare providers. It truly takes a village when it comes to healing, and being sure that providers and collaborating and are on the same page is key, and it also builds trust.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

I think that a sense of altruism is key. You have to be invested in your patients and want what’s best for them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aptophysicaltherapy.com/
• Instagram: @dramyosborne

Image Credits
Elizabeth Bettis, Jenna Porter