Physical Therapist
Sam became interested in physical therapy through a non-traditional route: He was looking for a viable career, particularly one that revolved around sports, but he knew that now one would ever pay him to play basketball. Also, he has always loved making conversation and making friends. So, he chose to pursue physical therapy since this profession seemed to make use of his interests and skills. He began his studies at Volunteer State Community College where he immediately discovered a love for human anatomy and physiology that he never knew he had. After graduating with an Associate's Degree, he moved on to Tennessee Technological University where he continued to dive further into exercise physiology, kinesiology, exercise prescription, and human performance. And he loved every minute of it! It was also during this time that he shadowed with therapists in various settings in Middle Tennessee and began to gain an appreciation for the importance of building rapport and friendships with patients. All of this only served to further confirm the appropriateness of his career choice in physical therapy.
With a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science from Tennessee Tech, Sam and his new wife headed to Memphis where he completed his doctoral degree in physical therapy from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Sam elected to stay in Memphis after graduation to continue to serve at his church, and while doing so, he received excellent mentorship and training from one of the most highly regarded physical therapists in the greater Memphis area. This greatly increased Sam's confidence and skill, and also helped to clarify his passion withing the broader spectrum of orthopedic physical therapy: assisting both serious athletes and active folks of all ages in identifying, understanding, and addressing the underlying source of their symptoms with a combination of hands-on techniques, dry needling, and highly specific exercises.
In the fall of 2024, Sam and his wife felt the call to return to Middle TN to be closer to family again, and after learning about Putnam Physical Therapy's unique company culture and values, he decided to join the team. He still loves problem-solving with patients, and also loves getting to know each person he encounters, and he continues to hone his craft and practice with specifically relevant continuing education. When not doing the above, Sam loves just being at home with his beautiful wife and daughter, playing basketball, watching UT football, engaging in deep philosophical conversations with his siblings, and doing anything in the mountains.
