DPT Portfolios

Statement:

My primary focus lies within outpatient orthopedics, where I am dedicated to implementing a wholistic approach to patient care. My goal is to synthesize the vast body of information available in the field and make it easily accessible for the general population. By combining my knowledge of physical therapy principles, personal training expertise, and research experience, I aspire to provide comprehensive and evidence-based care to individuals with musculoskeletal injuries. My goal is to develop innovative treatment strategies that encompass not only the physical aspects of rehabilitation but also the broader context of patients’ lives, considering their unique goals, lifestyles, and overall well-being.

By integrating my diverse background, I aspire to provide comprehensive care, empower patients to take an active role in their rehabilitation, and contribute to the dissemination of knowledge within the field of orthopedic rehabilitation. I aim to positively impact the lives of countless individuals, helping them regain mobility, independence, and an improved quality of life.

Career Plan

Past Experience

• 2015-2018 – Research Assistant, Gene Therapy for Epilepsy in Mice, Grey Labs
• 2017-2019- Soccer and Track and Field Coach, Special Olympics of Orange County
• 2019-Present – Certified Personal Trainer, National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
• 2019 – BA in Exercise and Sport Science at UNC Chapel Hill
  • Minor in Biology
• 2019-present – Personal Trainer at Chapel Hill Training

Clinical Experience

• Clinical Affiliation I: Outpatient Ortho and Neuro (8 weeks)
  • Chatham Rehabilitation Services | Pittsboro, NC
• Clinical Affiliation II: Acute Care (8 weeks)
  • Durham VA Hospital | Durham, NC
• Clinical Affiliation III: UNC Home Health Services (8 weeks)
  • UNC Home Health | Fuquay-Varina, NC
• Clinical Affiliation IV: Outpatient Ortho (12 weeks)
  • Sports and More Physical Therapy | Cary, NC

Future Plans

• 2024
  • Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), 2024
  • Graduate from UNC DPT Program, 2024
  • Begin working as a physical therapist in the Triangle area
• By 2028:
  • Pursue a specialist education in Orthopedics and become a orthopedic clinical specialist (OCS)

Self-Assessment

Strengths

• Experience with training
• Establishing patient rapport
• Professional and ethical behavior
• Continuously seeking feedback from mentors to improve skills

Areas for Professional Development

• Involvement in the APTA and understanding of current policies
• Competence with billing and reimbursement for various insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid
• Attending conferences and continuing education experiences to further enhance evidence-based practice

Objectives

• Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) in 2024
• Graduate with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2024
• Begin working in the State of North Carolina as a physical therapist by October 2024
• Sit for Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Board Certification Exam by 2028

Specific Strategies

• Create a study plan for the NPTE
• Obtain an APTA membership to stay involved and up to date on current policies and evidence based practice
• Implement learned practices into training with current clients
• Obtain proficiency in modalities such as dry needling to be able to offer patients a variety of treatments.
• Electives:
  • Advanced Orthopedic Assessment and Intervention
  • Topics in Sports Physical Therapy
  • Topics in Nutrition

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI)

UNC has actively promoted participation in diversity and inclusion activities, shaping both our personal and professional lives. Some events emphasize the importance of welcoming environments, while others address specific social issues. Outside of school, I have been able to attend events and talks focused on reducing healthcare barriers and fostering inclusivity. The most valuable experiences in diversity and inclusion have been during clinical rotations, where I have worked alongside clinicians and staff from diverse backgrounds, each offering unique perspectives on patient care. The patients I have treated represent an incredible diversity of backgrounds, which has greatly enriched my understanding and approach to healthcare. This wide range of experiences and viewpoints is especially beneficial in healthcare teams that need to collaborate to solve problems every day.

 

Interprofessional Education Activities (IPE) 

Reflecting on my engagement in Interprofessional Education Activities (IPE) throughout my time in the program, I am struck by the profound impact these experiences have had on my perspective and approach to healthcare. Completing at least three interprofessional experiences has not only broadened my understanding of various healthcare disciplines but has also enriched my ability to collaborate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. Engaging in courses, seminars, and professional events facilitated meaningful interactions with professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of healthcare specialties. These experiences have taught me the importance of communication, respect, and mutual understanding in delivering patient-centered care. Moving forward in my professional career, I will carry forward the lessons learned from IPE, striving to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, advocate for holistic patient care, and continuously seek opportunities for collaborative learning and growth.

 

Work Samples:

Attached is a link to my capstone on different modalities for treating trigger points.

https://dptcapstone.web.unc.edu/

I completed an appraisal on the effectiveness of dry needling compared to traditional PT for improving pain and ROM outcomes. file:///Users/christopherrain/Downloads/annotated-FINAL%2520CRITICALLY%2520APPRAISED%2520TOPIC_Rain.docx.pdf

Reflection:

Reflecting on my three-year journey through the physical therapy program, I’ve undergone significant personal and professional growth. From delving into academic interests to gaining invaluable hands-on experience through clinical rotations, I’ve evolved as both a student and a future clinician. Looking ahead, my focus remains on treating orthopedic and sports-related injuries while staying updated with the latest advancements in physical therapy. Grateful for the mentorship and support from faculty and peers, I’m eager to apply the skills developed at UNC to provide comprehensive care wherever I may be.

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