Stretching Toward Success: How One Bryant & Stratton College Graduate Champions Movement and Healing 

Every December, National Stretching Day serves as an important reminder of the fundamental role flexibility and mobility play in our overall health and well-being. For Kylie Shields, a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) graduate from Bryant & Stratton College’s Parma campus, this day represents more than just a date on the calendar. It embodies the core principles that drive her work every day: helping people move better, recover faster, and live fuller lives. 

From Student to Healthcare Professional 

Kylie’s journey into this career field was motivated by a simple yet powerful desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. When choosing her career path, she knew she wanted to help others improve their mobility and overall well-being. The Physical Therapist Assistant program at B&SC provided the perfect foundation for turning that passion into a profession. 

The thorough curriculum provided Kylie with essential knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques that are all critical components for delivering effective patient care. However, it was the hands-on practicals in the classroom that truly transformed her education from theory into practice. These practical sessions allowed her to apply real-life concepts and build confidence before stepping into clinical settings where patients would depend on her expertise. 

Clinical rotations further strengthened Kylie’s skills, giving her invaluable opportunities to work directly with patients and refine her therapeutic techniques. The professional development opportunities she encountered during her time at Bryant & Stratton College also proved instrumental and allowed her to network with established professionals as well as gain a deeper understanding of the expectations and responsibilities that come with being a PTA. 

The Power of Stretching in Patient Recovery 

As a practicing Physical Therapist Assistant, Kylie has witnessed firsthand how stretching exercises can transform a patient’s recovery journey. National Stretching Day, she believes, highlights the critical importance of stretching for reducing injuries, improving flexibility, and helping people move more comfortably in their daily activities. These benefits extend beyond general wellness and play a vital role in the rehabilitation process, which often leads to faster and more complete recoveries. 

One experience stands out vividly in Kylie’s memory. She worked with a patient recovering from knee surgery who was struggling with significant stiffness and severely limited mobility. The simple act of incorporating targeted stretching exercises into their therapy sessions led to remarkable progress. Gradually, the patient regained their range of motion and strength. Eventually, they achieved milestones that had seemed impossibly distant: fully bending their knee and walking independently once again. These moments remind Kylie why she chose this profession and reinforce the profound impact that proper stretching and rehabilitation can have on someone’s quality of life. 

The Diverse Role of a Physical Therapist Assistant 

Many people might be surprised to learn just how diverse and multifaceted the role of a Physical Therapist Assistant truly is. While providing therapeutic services is certainly central to the job, PTAs like Kylie also play vital roles in patient education by helping individuals understand their conditions and the importance of their exercises. They assist in tailoring treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and participate in assessing patient progress throughout the rehabilitation process. 

This comprehensive approach to patient care requires not only technical knowledge but also strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to adapt strategies based on individual patient responses. It’s a dynamic profession that demands continuous learning and a genuine commitment to helping others achieve their health goals. 

The Impact of Exceptional Mentorship 

Throughout her time in the PTA program, Kylie was fortunate to learn from two exceptional professors: Jodi Frank (PTA Program Director) and Dr. Sinreich. Their impact on her education and professional development cannot be overstated. Both believed in her potential from the beginning and supported her every step of the way. During some of her most challenging moments, they provided invaluable guidance and were always available to listen when she needed support. 

Their mentorship helped Kylie build confidence in her skills, pushing her to excel even when she doubted herself. The combination of technical education and personal encouragement created an environment where she could thrive and develop into the skilled healthcare professional she is today. The lasting impression these professors made serves as a testament to the quality of education and personal attention students receive at Bryant & Stratton College. 

Looking Forward 

Currently, Kylie is focused on developing her skills and gaining valuable experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant. She remains committed to the continuous learning that comes with working directly with patients and staying current with best practices in physical therapy. 

As National Stretching Day approaches, Kylie’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of how dedicated healthcare professionals impact lives every day through their work. Her journey from student to skilled PTA demonstrates the value of comprehensive education, hands-on training, and supportive mentorship. More importantly, it highlights how a passion for helping others, combined with the right educational foundation, can lead to a fulfilling career that makes a genuine difference in people’s lives. 

Whether you’re considering a career in healthcare, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your overall mobility, remember that professionals like Kylie are out there and ready to help you stretch toward a healthier, more active future.