Benjamin Boyd has always been fascinated by how the human body works, the interplay of muscles, movement and skeletal structure. With a father who was a pediatric physiatrist, he was exposed to health care early on. After a foray into environmental studies, he eventually discovered physical therapy, where he became especially captivated by the nature of pain and its deep connection to the human experience.

In a bold career pivot, Ben stepped away from his faculty role at Samuel Merritt University to write Bodily Relearning, a book designed to help clinicians better support patients living with persistent pain. The book was met with enthusiasm, and he is currently working on a second book written directly for patients.

In the new year, he will return to academia as a professor at Samuel Merritt University, bringing his experiences in research, writing and clinical practice full circle. His career reflects a constant thread: a passion for helping others learn, grow, and rethink what is possible in rehabilitation and pain care.

00:00 Introduction to PT Path

00:30 Meet Benjamin Boyd: From Environmental Studies to Physical Therapy

01:55 Early Exposure to Physical Therapy

03:01 Gaining Experience Before PT School

04:48 Research Focus: Peripheral Nerve Sensitivity in Diabetes

06:53 The Journey into Academia and Research

10:11 Balancing Clinical Work and Academia

11:30 Writing 'Bodily Relearning': Challenges and Triumphs

13:40 The Impact of Pain Science and Education

45:04 Future Plans and Returning to Academia

50:33 Final Thoughts and Advice