Grand Valley State University annually does a lab session where their physical therapy students perform a mock evaluation and assessment individuals with physical disabilities. This was my fourth time doing this.
I meet with the approximately 12 students in two different session who asked questions about my spinal cord injury and how physical therapy has helped in my recovery.
After about 20 minutes, they help transfer me to a mat table. They help me roll from side to side. They test my tone and spasticity with a modified Ashworth scale. This is a subjective measurement of one’s tone and spasticity.
It’s a fun experience interacting with these inquisitive students. Since it’s rivalry week between our two schools and football this upcoming Saturday, I wore my Ferris State quarter zip pullover (my Bulldogs won!).
They were gracious and not dropping me for wearing my colors. I’m a good test subject due to my tone, spasticity, and clonus. Initially, they’re reluctant to move me around and fear of breaking me. I assure them that my body is quite resilient.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable experience both for them and myself. It is fun bantering with them and being a test subject.
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