In this podcast we will cover 1. Body awareness 2. What is Myofascial and why it's important 3. From regression to progression and why it matters Garrett Hurd is a passionate physical therapist dedicated to movement, wellness, and holistic health, with a particular focus on Pilates-based rehabilitation. He holds a Bachelor of Music from the Eastman School of Music and a Master of Performance and Pedagogy from Northwestern University. His transformative journey into the healthcare field culminated in a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Marymount University, where he discovered a profound commitment to empowering individuals through movement. Garrett began his career at the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Washington, D.C., primarily working with patients recovering from neurological injuries, including stroke, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy. This experience deepened his understanding of the nervous system's complexities and its crucial role in musculoskeletal recovery. He later transitioned to a more orthopedic setting, collaborating with clients at Fairfax Family Practice, OrthoVirginia, and Aurora Sports Health, further honing his skills while continuing to integrate his knowledge of the nervous system to optimize musculoskeletal injury recovery. Specializing in Pilates-based physical therapy, Garrett utilizes the principles of Pilates to enhance functional movement and promote overall body awareness. He integrates manual therapeutic techniques, including trigger point dry needling and myofascial release, in conjunction with Pilates exercises to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client's unique needs. He believes that physical therapy is about more than just overcoming injuries; it's about rediscovering joy, freedom, and strength through movement. A firm proponent of the holistic benefits of movement, Garrett's approach includes an emphasis on building core strength, enhancing flexibility, and improving posture—key components of Pilates. He understands that these elements contribute significantly to rehabilitation and contribute to overall well-being and resilience. Garrett's commitment to the field of physical therapy is exemplified by his involvement in the community and his continuous pursuit of knowledge. He served as Class President during his training and received Marymount's Academic Excellence Award. His thesis research on Rett Syndrome has been presented at a national conference, demonstrating his dedication to advancing the field through movement science. Outside of his clinical work, Garrett enjoys Tough Mudders, traveling, scuba diving, and being surrounded by nature—activities that allow him to experience the beauty of the world while deepening his appreciation for movement in diverse environments. His adventurous spirit has also led him to co-sponsor wellness retreats in Roatan, Honduras, where he blends movement with mindfulness, nurturing a balanced lifestyle for participants. These experiences continuously inspire his practice, reminding him of the incredible resilience and adaptability of the human body. Garrett is dedicated to lifelong learning and community engagement. He strives to empower his clients to embrace movement as a vital component of their health and wellness journey, fostering not just recovery but a deeper connection to their own bodies. You can find Garrett at: KineticMKE 902 E Hamilton St Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202 202-222-5952 garrettthept@gmail.com
