I have been intrigued by movement since childhood. Dancing, ballgames, hiking and biking were my favorite activities growing up. I chose Physical Therapy as my career to help those whose movement has been impaired for one reason or another. As a Physical Therapist, I have worked in many different settings: hospital inpatient and outpatient departments, long term care, home care, and private outpatient clinics, which I have always enjoyed the most.
​
Twenty years into my career, I was introduced to the Feldenkrais Method®. From the start, I was intrigued by the Method’s subtle, yet astoundingly effective movements and by the gentle, explorative nature of executing them. Being curious and wanting to learn more about the method, I participated in the Feldenkrais Professional Training Program from 1993—1997. During that time, my understanding of human movement greatly expanded. I also realized that in my work with clients, I was getting better and quicker results while enjoying my work even more!
​
Today, I apply the principles of the Feldenkrais Method in one form or another with every client. Learning to observe one’s sensations regarding posture and movement is one of the key points I stress. Sensory awareness speeds up the restoration of flexibility, posture, and balance while also reducing pain and tension. Many clients feel that they are awakening their natural abilities that have been dormant or forgotten because of their injury, illness, or sedentary life style
Staff
I started my physical therapy career working in Pediatrics and Neurology at the University of Virginia Hospital. During that time, I gained an in depth understanding of the power and the ability of the body to recover from severe injury, trauma and disease. Early in my career, however, I sustained a major back injury. This resulted in over 5 years of living with constant back pain. I gained a perspective up close and personal of what it meant to work every day in pain and lose the ability to participate in activities that I loved such as running, hiking and biking. In fact, just sitting and standing was a challenge! This injury ultimately led to my work in outpatient orthopedics with an emphasis on treatment of spine.
​
I spent countless hours studying the musculo-skeletal system and exploring every form of healing available. In this process, I learned that often “where you hurt is not the SOURCE of the problem”. I also gained extensive knowledge of the spine and musculoskeletal system realizing that recovery was not just about strengthening or stretching a muscle but how the entire body works together . Adding postural retraining with the Egoscue based exercises brings another level of retraining to the body and offers not only recovery from pain but significant restoration of function. I am passionate about helping people recover the potential of their body and guiding them to live life to its fullest. I truly believe in the innate healing potential of the body!
Susy Russell M.S., P.T./ PAS
Physical Therapist and Postural Alignment Specialist certified by Egoscue University
Helena Lindholm PT, GCFP
Physical Therapist and Feldenkrais Practitioner