My experience at ATI Physical Therapy this past Thursday was disappointing. I have been committed to my therapy and have no problem doing my exercises. In fact, I exercise during my sessions, receive additional therapy for my ankle at another facility, and remain physically active while working. For that reason, I was disappointed when an associate therapist made a comment suggesting that I did not want to do my exercises. I immediately clarified that this was not the case.
I have worked with this therapist a few times and tried to give her the benefit of the doubt, but I became increasingly disappointed. On two occasions, I explained that certain exercises were aggravating my ankle, but I did not feel that my concerns were adequately listened to. I was subsequently instructed to perform weighted squats that caused significant pain. The pain was severe enough that afterward I had difficulty getting out of bed and initially walking.
At my most recent visit, the therapist I have worked with for years appropriately adjusted my exercises based on my concerns. However, at the end of the session, the associate therapist who took over did not provide heat or any other follow-up treatment.
I believe physical therapy should involve listening carefully to the patient's concerns and adjusting treatment appropriately, particularly when a patient reports that an exercise is causing pain. Unfortunately, this experience has left me uncomfortable continuing treatment at this location. I appreciate the therapists who have previously worked with me and provided care that made me feel heard, but based on my recent experiences, I no longer wish to continue treatment at this center.
Recommendation: Prefer going to another facility.