A Conversation With Tyler O’Toole

What drives your passion for physical therapy in our mountain community?

Vail is a unique place to work as a physical therapist because we serve an incredibly active and motivated population. Seeing how engaged our community is inspires me to provide the best care possible, helping people maintain their health and activity levels for as long as they can.

How does having a physical therapist in the Borgen Family Emergency Department and Trauma Center improve patient care and outcomes?

Having a physical therapist in the Emergency Department helps patients navigate the acute management of their injuries with greater confidence. For many of the injuries I see, early intervention makes a real difference—patients leave feeling more mobile and comfortable, with a clearer understanding of their recovery process and what to expect as they heal.

During peak ski season, what are the most common injuries you see in the Emergency Department? What advice do you give skiers and snowboarders to help prevent them?

I treat a wide range of acute orthopedic injuries, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, and fractures. We know skiing and snowboarding come with inherent risks, and injuries can happen no matter how experienced or prepared you are. My advice for staying healthy on the mountain is to maintain a regular training routine focused on lower-extremity strength and stability, along with plyometric exercises. When you’re skiing, take time to warm up thoroughly, start with easier runs, and avoid pushing yourself when your legs are tired or injured.

Can you share a snapshot of your background and what brought you to Howard Head Sports Medicine?

Before joining Howard Head, I was a travel physical therapist, which gave me the opportunity to work throughout the country. I came to Colorado on a travel contract in the Front Range and immediately connected with the active lifestyle and sense of community here. After working with patients who had been treated at Howard Head, I quickly realized it was a well-respected organization with a reputation for high-quality care. When an opportunity opened up, I jumped at it. Today, I’m grateful to work alongside such knowledgeable experts in both outpatient orthopedics and emergency medicine.