Students help hikers on Appalachian Trail

Thirteen University of North Georgia (UNG) physical therapy students, recent alumni and faculty took part in a day of service March 4 on the Appalachian Trail. They assisted thru-hikers in a variety of ways.

Students gave back rubs and provided education to the hikers on footwear and the biomechanics of carrying backpacks.

Kady King, a second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student from Cartersville, Georgia, was grateful for the experience aiding the hikers.

"We offered any relief we could," King said. "It was a good opportunity to work on our examination and hands-on skills while building rapport. It's one thing to know what you're doing, but it's another thing to get to know the person you're working on."

Dr. Don Walsh, associate professor of physical therapy, helped facilitate the opportunity in coordination with other Georgia universities that provided service on various days throughout the month of March.

"It is always a fun and rewarding time to listen to the hikers' stories, help them with musculoskeletal concerns and provide off-trail back rubs," Walsh said. "Students can put some of their learned classroom skills to use in this nontraditional outdoor environment while helping hikers continue their journey."