I became interested in physical therapy as a teenager, when a family friend required home health physical therapy for her cystic fibrosis.
Pummeling: What fun!
The therapist came to their home to educate her parents on proper “pummeling” techniques to clear her lungs. I was intrigued and thought “what a fun and important job” that would be. Along with this, I was running track and cross-country and was always very interested in how people were injured and how they recovered from their injuries to return to pain free running.
I knew going into college that I wanted to become a physical therapist. I received my BS degree in the Science of Human Performance and went on to achieve a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy, both from the College of St. Catherine in St.Paul/Minneapolis Minnesota.
Debbie Habiq: Minnesota to Colorado
My first job in therapy was in Pueblo, CO at a large hospital based outpatient facility. There I worked both with pediatric and adult population in primarily orthopedic conditions, but neurological as well. I had excellent mentors and a wide range of experiences for which I will always be thankful. Due to my husband’s education, we moved to Madison Wisconsin where I worked with primarily adult orthopedic populations. It is here that I began training in the McKenzie technique for spinal diagnosis and treatment.
I have since worked in Salt Lake City and, now, in Boise. I have been with St. Alphonsus Rehabilitation Services (STARS) for 5 years . I enjoy working with all orthopedic injuries, but have specialized in treatment of the spine. I am certified in Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment (MDT).
I feel privileged to work at such a peaceful facility and I am rewarded daily to help others return to activities that they enjoy.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and two teenagers. I enjoy trail running (with my dog), watercolor painting, and reading (with my cats).
Click here for Debbie’s bio.