About Me
I have been a licensed physical therapist since earning my Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2012. I also hold a Master of Science in Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. Since 1994, I have dedicated my career to educating and motivating individuals—from young children to older adults—on the importance of movement, fitness, and overall wellness.
The inspiration for this blog came when I transitioned from outpatient physical therapy to working in geriatric care. Working now with older adults who have become weak or frail, I often find myself thinking: If only I had met them 10 or even 30 years earlier, I could have helped prevent many of the posture, mobility, and pain issues that now limit their ability to live fully.
What I love most about being a physical therapist is the opportunity to educate people about the incredible design and potential of the human body. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing that “aha” moment when something I explain clicks, and a patient suddenly understands their body in a new way. In that moment, I have empowered them to take control of their own health.
That is the goal of this website: to share knowledge, inspire change, and help people move better, feel better, and live better at any age.
Donna Albert, DPT, MS
HOW WELL ARE YOU AGING?
I decided to launch my blog with a series of assessments, just as I would when meeting a new patient. These assessments focus on three key areas: Posture and Alignment, Mobility and Flexibility, and Functional Strength, Mobility, and Balance. Together, they provide a snapshot of how well your body is aging.
The purpose of these assessments is to bring awareness to physical changes you may not notice but can often feel. They are designed to give insight into how your body moves, holds itself and functions.
My hope is that, after completing these assessments, you will either feel reassured that your body is aging well or become aware of areas that need some attention.
If any movement causes pain, please do not ignore or fear it. Acknowledge this pain as your body’s way of communicating that something is not quite right. If the pain lingers and does not improve, I strongly recommend consulting your physician or a qualified healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist, for an in-depth evaluation.
I believe our bodies are constantly trying to heal themselves if we give them the opportunity. Aging does not have to mean stiffness, aches, or chronic discomfort. Much of the tightness and pain we feel is often the result of repetitive, unconscious habits built into our daily routines. Once we become aware of these patterns, we can begin to change them; and that is where the healing starts.
I encourage you to repeat these assessments at least once a year. Consider doing them around your birthday or at the start of the new year as a way to monitor how your body may be changing over time.
After each set of assessments, I have included explanations to help you understand what optimal movement and alignment should look like at any age. If you notice changes with your body or simply want to maintain your physical health, check out the blog category “Now That You Know.” There, you will find deeper insights and corrective exercises to empower you to take control of your mobility, healing, and overall well-being.
So, let’s get started!