Meet Ziya “Z” Altug, a distinguished board-certified doctor of physical therapy from the United States, renowned for his expertise in treating musculoskeletal conditions through integrative lifestyle medicine. With a wealth of clinical experience, Z employs a nature-based therapy approach to facilitate the recovery and healing of his patients and clients. Whether acting as a webinar presenter, Plus instructor or working directly with patients, Z consistently embodies a focused perspective, showcasing his unwavering dedication to elevating the standards of his profession. As we acknowledge Z as our Top Contributor for January, let’s celebrate his multifaceted contributions to rehabilitation and lifestyle medicine. We are thrilled to have you as a Plus course instructor Z, we cannot wait to see where your knowledge-sharing takes us next.
Your name: Ziya Altug
, also known as “Z”.
Time active with Physiopedia: I joined Physiopedia in September 2021, I have been part of the team for 2 years and 4 months.
Current role with Physiopedia: I am an instructor on Plus and a webinar presenter.
Where did you go to university/college? I am privileged to say I have had a few post-graduate opportunities in the United States, including:
1. Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The College of St. Scholastica, Duluth, MN.
2. Master of Science, Sport and Exercise Studies, from West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
3. Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, from the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
4. Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, from West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Where do you work? I work in Los Angeles, California, providing outpatient home-based physical therapy services and as an instructor for courses with Plus and at a local college.
Describe your role: Outpatient physical therapy clinical work in Los Angeles and teaching. I am also a Plus instructor, with 15 courses on topics such as; home exercise programs, the clinical management of osteoarthritis and low back pain, and several courses on lifestyle medicine and nature-based therapies.
What is the most rewarding part of being a clinician or working with Physiopedia? I enjoy working for Plus since I am able to meet wonderful clinicians from across the globe.
What are some of the more challenging aspects of your work? Staying up-to-date with the latest evidence-based information, which requires constant and intentional effort.
What are some of your professional passions? I enjoy writing and speaking. For the past five years, I have worked on a practical book The Lifestyle Medicine Toolbox with Jessica Kingsley Publishers in London. The book is geared toward healthcare providers and wellness professionals and will be released on February 21, 2024.
What are a few of your personal passions? I enjoy playing basketball, volleyball, and doing my daily qigong and tai chi routine.
What would be your advice to a newly graduating physiotherapist? First, make full use of the low-cost and amazing Plus courses from experienced global instructors. Second, create a LinkedIn profile and start connecting with healthcare professionals.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully, the author of several other lifestyle medicine books for children and other courses for Plus.
What are the best things about being part of the Physiopedia team? I enjoy the supportive and friendly atmosphere offered by Physiopedia and Plus for course creation and delivery. As a result of my affiliation with Physiopedia, I’m also very happy to have met many amazing clinicians from around the world.
How has being a Physiopedia team member helped your professional development/career progression? My affiliation with Physiopedia was very important in helping me acquire a book publishing with Jessica Kingsley Publishers in London. For this reason, I am very grateful for my association with Physiopedia and Plus.
What are your hopes and aspirations for Physiopedia? I hope Physiopedia continues translating all its content and courses into many languages.
What is your favourite Physioplus course? Since I have been creating and teaching many courses in the past few years, I have not had time to take courses for my own needs. However, in 2024, I plan to take Plus courses on foot biomechanics, nutrition, pain management, and many others.
Anything else you would like to share? I thank the entire global team at Physiopedia and Plus for being so helpful in course creation and delivery. Keep up the great work!