DPT Students Work with Special Olympics

special-olympics-croppedUF DPT (Doctorate of Physical Therapy) students traveled to Orlando this fall to work with the Special Olympics. DPT second year student Christopher Dela Cruz enthusiastically reports: “It was an amazing event working with athletes of all ages and conditions. The athletes had such a great competitive spirit and had so much joy and happiness competing and participating in the screening. We screened flexibility, strength, balance, and aerobic conditioning for over 200 athletes. We worked with other physical therapy students and PTA students from all over Florida. From the results from the screenings we were able to provide exercises and stretches to address their impairments. I think we learned a lot from these athletes not just practicing our skills but also from their positive and joyful outlook on life.”