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Innovative Approach to Physical Therapy with Twila Ruefer

by Thrive Wellness on
Longevity & Healthy Aging

In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Twila Ruefer, a passionate physical therapist and the founder of Longevity Institute of Virginia. Twila’s journey from Navy service to revolutionizing physical therapy practice offers valuable insights into the future of healthcare and personal wellness.

From Navy to PT: A Journey of Discovery

Twila's path to physical therapy was anything but straightforward. After joining the Navy at 18, she initially pursued a career in electronics. However, her involvement in command fitness activities and coordinating care for injured sailors sparked her interest in fitness and rehabilitation. This led her to pursue a degree in kinesiology and eventually a doctorate in physical therapy.

The Birth of Longevity Institute

Frustrated with the limitations of traditional insurance-based physical therapy, Twila recently launched Longevity Institute of Virginia. This cash-based clinic allows her to spend a full hour with each patient, focusing on holistic care that goes beyond just treating symptoms.

Key Principles of Twila's Approach

  1. Relationships Matter: Building trust and understanding each patient's unique story is crucial for effective treatment.
  1. Consistency is Key: Small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements over time.
  1. Mindset is Everything: Addressing mental and emotional aspects is essential for overall health.

Holistic Care: Beyond Physical Therapy

Twila's approach incorporates several "longevity pillars":

  • Eating well
  • Moving often
  • Prioritizing sleep
  • Cultivating quality relationships
  • Living with purpose
  • Reducing stress

By addressing these areas, Twila aims to treat the root causes of pain and health issues, not just the symptoms.

The Cash-Pay Model: Quality Over Quantity

By operating outside the constraints of insurance, Twila can:

  • Spend more time with each patient
  • Address multiple health factors in a single session
  • Provide personalized, comprehensive care

This model allows for better outcomes in fewer sessions, potentially saving patients time and money in the long run.

Spirituality in Healthcare

Twila isn't afraid to discuss spirituality with her patients. She emphasizes that spirituality can take many forms, from meditation to religious practice, and can play a crucial role in stress reduction and overall well-being.

Resources for Longevity

Twyla recommends several resources for those interested in longevity and holistic health:

  • "Outlive" by Peter Attia
  • "Built to Move" by Kelly Starrett
  • The Longevity Institute podcast

Looking Forward

As Twila settles in Virginia Beach and continues to grow her practice, she represents a new wave of healthcare professionals prioritizing quality, personalized care over volume-driven models. Her approach offers hope for those seeking comprehensive solutions to complex health challenges.

To learn more about Twila and Longevity Institute of Virginia, visit www.longevityvb.com or follow @LongevityVB on Instagram.

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