Introducing Lisa Clifford! Lisa practices as a Registered Physiotherapist at Oakville’s Palermo Physiotherapist and Wellness Centre.

Why did you decide to become a Physiotherapist?

When I first started in post-secondary I didn’t have an end-game. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I “grew-up”. I often joke that I went to university initially to play fastpitch softball. Many people don’t know that I changed programs into the Paramedic program at Humber college. I loved the program but began to realize at that point I was more interested in helping patients with treatment progressions, and seeing them through a treatment plan. I had been a Physiotherapy patient as an athlete in an outpatient setting and had seen grandparents go through physiotherapy in the hospital due to medical issues.

Why are you passionate about the Physiotherapy Profession?

Working with a Physiotherapist can be so effective in helping patients reach their goals. Many people relate Physiotherapy to sports medicine and Athletes in particular. While that is the case there are still many people who are underutilizing the services of Physio’s. The most important things a Physiotherapist can provide to a person is education and exercise. There are people who have been told they shouldn’t squat because they have knee arthritis. Thinking logically, the movement of getting up and down from a toilet and chair, is that movement. Physiotherapy intervention in this case would be beneficial in teaching someone how to do a movement safely and effectively. I could go on, but the reality is for ANYONE, if you would like to move and function better, stay mobile and active, Physiotherapists are here to help. That being said, if your goal is to be able to get up from the floor or maintain a strong core, simply placing electrodes and a heat pack on your body will not get you there.

What do you like most about working at Oakville’s Palermo Physiotherapy and Wellness Centre?

We are so lucky to have awesome co-workers. To be able to collaborate, bounce ideas off of each other and learn from one another is amazing. Everyone I work with truly cares about what they’re doing and helping patients reach their goals. Everyone has a different educational and experiential background which adds to the dynamic.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love being outside and active. Hiking in the escarpment, stand up paddle boarding in the area as well as gardening are at the top of my list. I also love spending time doing yoga and reading. I leave my mat set up most of the time so I can just hop on a spend a couple minute or a longer session moving, breathing and stretching.

Do you have a favourite sport or activity?

Baseball / softball are at the top of my list to watch and play, but I love playing any sport and being active. Lifting weights and working out with friends is also a great way for a visit and workout!

What’s the most recent book you’ve read / movie you’ve watched?

I’m currently reading Buddha’s Brain. It’s a great comprehensive read about the brain and body’s physiology and the way we can tap into in and foster it’s growth positively. I recently saw On the Basis of Sex. It’s an amazing biopic of Ruth Bader Ginsberg as she navigates law school, marriage and her early career. It highlights her contribution to gender equity in America.