Rediscovering Purpose in Physical Therapy: Dr. Drew’s Story
For Dr. Andrew Bucknor, known to his patients and teammates as Dr. Drew, becoming a physical therapist started with a simple motivation: helping people become better versions of themselves.
“I care about people. That’s kind of like why I got into the profession,” he shares.
But after approximately nine years with his previous company, including time as a clinic director, he found himself asking what came next. He had gained valuable experience treating patients, managing a team, and building community relationships. Still, he felt ready for something more.
Recognizing When It’s Time to Grow
Dr. Drew values the experience that shaped his early career. Those years helped him develop as both a clinician and a leader. Over time, however, he began to feel that his professional growth had stalled.
“I think I needed change,” he explains. “There was more in store for me.”
The question became less about how long he had been somewhere and more about where he wanted to go.
Where did his passion lie? What kind of patients did he want to serve? And what environment would help him continue growing?
Helping People Who Want to Keep Moving
As more people took up activities like pickleball, basketball, and cycling, Dr. Drew noticed a population he particularly enjoyed treating: people who wanted to stay active.
Some were returning after an injury. Others were navigating aches and pains that interrupted a new routine. What connected them was the desire to keep moving and participating in the activities they enjoyed.
That helped clarify the next chapter of his career. He wanted to work with people who valued movement, fitness, and an active life, a focus that aligned with Rehab 2 Perform’s approach to physical therapy and sports rehabilitation.
Building Trust Through Connection
For Dr. Drew, effective care starts with getting to know the person in front of him.
He looks for opportunities to build rapport, understand what matters to each patient, and create an environment where they feel comfortable.
“If you relate with somebody and they feel comfortable, they trust you,” he says.
That connection helps him build a relationship around the work of rehabilitation. Patients bring their own goals, experiences, and motivations. Understanding those details is central to how he approaches their care.
Finding His Identity as “Dr. Drew”
Joining Rehab 2 Perform brought an unexpected change: people started calling him Dr. Drew.
For him, that name represented a stronger sense of identity and a renewed connection to his profession.
“It almost reignited my passion for PT,” he shares.
He found a team that supported his development and an opportunity to help those around him grow, too. His story reflects the same belief that guides his patient care: progress requires opportunities to keep learning, moving, and challenging yourself.
Interested in growing your career with Rehab 2 Perform? Explore our career opportunities.
About Rehab 2 Perform
Rehab 2 Perform is a leading physical therapy and sports rehabilitation company dedicated to helping clients achieve optimal performance in their daily lives, whether they are athletes, weekend warriors, or individuals recovering from injury. With a team of highly skilled professionals across the DMV, Rehab 2 Perform offers a personalized, evidence-based approach that emphasizes active rehabilitation and functional fitness. Find a Location near you, or Schedule Here.