Erlanger Physical Therapy
Forging a Connection
The unique nature of physical therapy allows health professionals to spend plenty of dedicated time with their patients. “I get to connect with people, learn their story, figure out what motivates them, and help them form a plan to get back to sports or other daily activities,” says Josh Ooten. Ooten has been a physical therapist since 2015, and he has spent the last six months practicing at Erlanger Physical Therapy. In his work, Ooten prioritizes cultivating strong relationships with his patients. He shares, “The rehab process can be tough at times, but having a solid relationship between the therapist and patient allows for excellent communication to ensure we stay on track and are working toward achieving everyone’s goals.”
I am a firm believer in maximizing patients’ health literacy. If people understand the nature and cause of their injuries, they are far more likely to invest the time in therapy and at home to work toward the solution.”
My Credentials
Doctor of Physical Therapy:
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Chattanooga, TN
Certifications:
Dry Needling, Concussion Rehabilitation, Craniofacial/TMJ
My Specialties
Foot and Ankle, Shoulder, and
Knee Rehab
1. What do you love most about your profession?
Every person is different. Every knee, shoulder, or ankle is different. I love that my profession challenges me to think critically about each case and allows creativity in solving the puzzle of helping folks get back to normal function.
2. What is your best advice for patients?
My best advice for patients is to KEEP MOVING. Many, if not most, of the issues we see are the result of consistently sedentary lifestyles. Even low-level, daily exercise can help prevent many of the musculoskeletal issues that are commonly seen by physical therapists.
3. What influenced you to pursue your career?
I always wanted to work in healthcare. My mom is a nurse, and I was constantly involved in sports as a child. Physical therapy felt like a great avenue to work in healthcare while also staying connected to athletes.
4. What’s the key to making a great first impression?
I feel a great first impression comes down to being a good listener. When I meet a new patient, I want to hear about their family, their life, and all the things they like to do. I want to get a feel for their background and personal beliefs, as this plays a large role in the dynamics of their care.
5. Do you believe in miracles? Why or why not?
I do believe in miracles. I see them all the time in my profession. Seeing people stand, walk, run, and return to sports when they were told they’d never do those things is extremely rewarding, and it proves that we simply don’t always know what a little hard work and determination can produce in the long-term.
- 423.778.2930
- 1100 E. 3rd St., Suite G-103 Chattanooga, TN 37403
- erlanger.org/medical-services/orthopaedics/physical-therapy
