Caregiver Support and PT You Can Trust

Hi friends! 👋 I’m Paige Ryan, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and the founder of Foundation First Physical Therapy. This is my very first blog post, so I thought I’d take a moment to introduce myself, share a little about my journey, and let you know what you can expect here.

Who I Am

I’ve been a physical therapist since 2015, and I’ve spent most of my career working with kids with disabilities and their families. I loved the work, but when I became a parent myself, something shifted. I started to really get what families meant when they said they were overwhelmed, tired, or struggling to find balance.

That’s when I knew I wanted to do more. I didn’t just want to treat kids in therapy sessions. I wanted to support the whole family—parents included. Because when caregivers feel confident, cared for, and strong, kids thrive too.

What I Do

Today, my work has two branches:

🌟 Pediatric Physical Therapy: I provide in-home PT sessions for kids with a range of needs—whether that’s building strength, improving mobility, or helping families get fitted for equipment. My goal is always to make therapy accessible, functional, and a natural part of everyday life.

🌟 Caregiver Coaching: This is my passion project. It’s a 6-month program designed to help parents of kids with disabilities avoid burnout, build sustainable routines, and reclaim some joy in their lives. Coaching is not about piling more “shoulds” onto your plate. It’s about creating a support system that works for your family.

If you’re wondering where your energy is going each day (and why you feel like you’re running on empty), grab my free Routine Audit. It’s a simple, eye-opening tool for caregivers at any stage.

Why Caregiver Support Matters

Caregiving is rewarding, but it’s also exhausting. Between IEP meetings, medical appointments, daily care routines, and trying to make space for your own needs—it’s no wonder so many caregivers feel burned out.

That’s where my work comes in. Whether I’m supporting you through PT, coaching, or just answering a question during a discovery call, my mission is simple: helping families feel lighter, stronger, and more supported.

What You’ll Find on This Blog

This blog is going to be a mix of education, encouragement, and real-life strategies.

Expect posts on:

• Practical tips for safe lifting, mobility, and home accessibility.

• Caregiver self-care that’s actually realistic (because let’s be honest—bubble baths don’t solve burnout).

• Navigating systems like IEPs, school services, and medical providers.

• Stories of inclusion and why it matters for everybody.

• Spotlights on community partners, like MERGE Inclusion Consulting, who are changing the landscape for families.

My hope is that you’ll leave each post with something helpful—whether that’s a new idea, a shift in mindset, or just the reminder that you’re not in this alone.

Ready to Connect?

If you’re here because you’re curious about caregiver coaching or in-home PT, let’s talk!

• Explore my Caregiver Coaching Program.

• Learn more about Pediatric PT services.

• Book your free Discovery Call so we can figure out together what support looks like for your family.

This blog is just the beginning, and I’m so glad you’re here. 💛 Let’s build a stronger foundation for your caregiving journey—starting today.

✨ Stay tuned for the next post, where I’ll share about my Coffee Chat with Lisa Drennan of MERGE Inclusion Consulting.