Physical therapist discusses work
By Robert Cloud
Dean Sondrol helps his patients “get walking again.”
A physical therapist for 33 years, Sondrol recently joined the staff at Advanced Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in Waupaca.
Sondrol is a 1986 graduate of the University of Minnesota who worked in Minnesota, Colorado and Arizona prior to moving to Waupaca in 1995.
“I like the community,” Sondrol said. “All my kids went to school here.”
Sondrol has a son and two daughters – Spencer, Sydni and Lylli. He is married to Carmen Sondrol.
He has been involved in the Boy Scouts troop at Trinity, is a member of the board that organizes the Waupaca Triathlon and helps with local sports teams.
“Waupaca is such a great community to be involved in,” he said.
Sondol is also a member of the Waupaca Area Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club.
“Advanced is very big on being involved in the community,” Sondrol said.
Advanced held a community service day three weeks ago, and staff from 12 area offices worked at Mosquito Hill in New London.
Working with people
Sondrol said his work involves helping patients recover after an injury or after surgery.
“I try to get them walking,” Sondrol said. “Getting somebody back to their greatest functional activity is my goal.”
After an initial evaluation that lasts about an hour, physical therapy sessions usually take about 30-45 minutes.
Sondrol said the number of visits vary, depending on the injury.
“It can range from two to three visits to 15-20 visits,” Sondrol said.
Advanced also offers free injury screens that last about 15-20 minutes.
“If they have questions, we’ll look at it,” he said.
Working with people hands on is what Sondrol most enjoys about his profession.
“I’ve had opportunities to move up to management, but I’d rather work with people than push paperwork,” Sondrol said.