VMPT Well

Happy International Dance Day (a day late) to Deborah Hay — one of Austin’s own.

A founding member of the seminal Judson Dance Theater in NYC, Hay helped shape postmodern dance by expanding what dance could be—where any body, any movement, any moment holds meaning.

I first started learning about her at 14 years old—and more than 40 years later, I had the chance to meet her here in Austin at an art opening. A full-circle moment that speaks to the lasting impact of her work.

After moving to Austin in 1976, she spent decades leading open workshops for trained and untrained dancers alike, developing her practice of “playing awake”—an invitation to move with deep awareness, where each experience is entirely unrepeatable.
“I cannot think of anything else in my life where there is so much unlearning and learning happening at the same time.”

As physical therapists specializing in dance, we witness this constant cycle of learning, unlearning, and rediscovery in the body every day.

Dancing is not a talent. It is a way of waking up.
Thank you, Deborah.

It was truly an honor and joy to be invited as an alumni speaker for the UT Kinesiology & Health Education Career Panel. It was fascinating to hear the career paths of the other panelists and how we all found our way to healthcare. I was so inspired by my peers and the students at my alma mater.

We are heartbroken at the passing of Austin dance legend Kathy Dunn Hamrick.
I first met Kathy 32 years ago as a young dancer Austin. I quickly fell in love with her classes — her irreverent sense of humor, her quirky movement, and the way she encouraged dancers to take up space with confidence and creativity.
Beyond the studio, I had the privilege of caring for Kathy as a patient and, for a time, supporting her entire dance company. To witness her dedication and perseverance to her craft up close was an honor. Her commitment to dance — and to her dancers — was truly unparalleled.
She lived her life with grace, grit, and deep gratitude.
Kathy will be profoundly missed, but we like to think she’s choreographing something beautiful up above.
Farewell, dear friend. 🤍

We love getting out into the community and sharing what we do!
Huge thank you to the McCallum Dance Program for inviting us to speak with your dancers! We covered injury prevention, dancer-specific nutrition, and how to safely continue dancing
-even when managing an injury.
Empowering dancers with knowledge is one of our favorite parts of being PTs. Thanks for having us!


PhysicalTherapy

We love getting out into the community and sharing what we do!
Huge thank you to the McCallum Dance Program for inviting us to speak with your dancers! We covered injury prevention, dancer-specific nutrition, and how to safely continue dancing—even when managing an injury.
Empowering dancers with knowledge is one of our favorite parts of being PTs. Thanks for having us!

PhysicalTherapy

While my quads might be a little worse for wear after too many gran pliés, it was so amazing to be back in a ballet class in NYC. These poor slippers haven’t seen the light of day for years! Thank you to my fellow PT, for the peer pressure!

Dance truly is the best medicine.

Although our trip was short and sweet, we got to spend time with so many wonderful friends and family. It’s a true reminder that we belong wherever our family and friends are. Thank you for being a part of our family.

Happy Holidays from our VMPT Well family!

Austin dance. Austin art. Best combination!

Did you know menopause can affect more than just your hormones? Many women experience musculoskeletal symptoms of menopause—think tendon issues, joint stiffness, and loss of muscle mass. These changes are super common (and totally normal!) as estrogen levels shift.
The good news? Movement is medicine. Gentle strength training, Pilates, and guided mobility work can help keep your joints happy, your posture strong, and your body feeling balanced through every stage.
Let’s keep you moving with ease—because feeling strong never goes out of style. Visit VMPTWell.com to book your Initial Evaluation today.