Category Archives: Physical Therapy

  1. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance during the COVID-19 pandemic: Tips on setting boundaries and incorporating physical activity into your everyday routine

    November 23rd, 2020 by jbennett

    Posted in Healthy Living, Physical Therapy |

    Contributions by: Megan Otto & Reece Jensen, DPT, OCS

    The line between work and home life has blurred over the past few months as many individuals have transitioned to working from home as a safety measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This “new normal” brings new challenges as well — such as learning when and how to turn off the work switch when your office is now a part of your home.

    Maintaining a healthy work and life balance has been a constant struggle for individuals in the workforce, but many have experienced added stress since they’ve begun to work from home. A lack of a work and life balance can be detrimental to the body and lead to increased fatigue, poor overall health and a loss of time with family and loved ones.

    “If work stress is not balanced and negated with exercise, rest or recreation, we tend to develop conditions that are bad for our health: tension headaches, bad digestion, low energy levels and poor sleep,” says Reece Jensen, DPT, OCS and a physical therapist with 30 years of experience. “These symptoms can occur, along with increased family or relationship stress.”

    Setting limits such as scheduling specific work hours during the day and turning off your phone or computer after work, can help combat work stress. Learning to say “no” and detaching from work are also good boundaries to set.

    It is also critical that you take time to care for yourself, both physically and mentally. Physical therapy is one way to make time for yourself and promote balance in your life. Physical therapy can teach healthy stretches and exercise routines to help improve body performance and prevent future injuries. Additionally, stretching and physical activity help burn off the physiological damage that can build up from stressful days at work.

    Jensen suggests that managing stress is just another facet of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

    “Life is about stress and there is no way around it. Having zero stress is actually more stressful and can be unhealthy,” says Jensen. “There is good, positive stress like motivation, desire, goal achievement and performance, as well as bad, negative stress like tension, frustration, fatigue, boredom, fear and personal safety. As physical therapists, we help teach patients to manage the negative stress and establish routines that promote good, positive stress.”

    Stretching and physical activity force the body to focus on proper breathing which helps to reduce stress in the body. Specifically, stretching helps to reduce tension in muscles that have tightened under stress, which often occurs when sitting at a desk all day. Meanwhile, aerobic exercise for as little as 20 minutes a day has been shown to reduce stress, improve your mood, reduce symptoms of depression and lower cardiac risk factors.

    Ultimately, it’s up to you to put methods into place to help achieve a healthy balance between work and home life and lower stress. But, don’t be afraid to reach out to your physical therapist for help. Whether you decide to add in a morning stretch or an evening workout to your daily routine, your physical therapist can guide you in what may be best for your body and help you achieve your desired work-life balance!

    Special thanks to Reece Jensen, DPT, OCS, from our sister location PRN Physical & Hand Therapy in Encinitas, California.

    If you are experiencing pain or increased stress, give us a call today! Our trusted physical therapists are here to help you manage any aches and pains related to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

  2. Can Exercise Ward Off Cold and Flu Symptoms?

    November 1st, 2019 by PRN Staff Editor

    Posted in Healthy Living, Physical Therapy |

    As cold and flu season approaches, so does the season of illness prevention.

    From getting flu shots to adding a little extra Vitamin C to our diets, prevention often becomes a focus for those concerned with getting sick, missing work and/or school, and optimizing the joy of their upcoming Holiday Seasons.

    It’s based on this mindset that medical professionals such as physical therapists are most likely to get some version of the question: Can exercise boost my immune system?

    The answer, however, is broader than the question itself.

    Boosting the Immune System

    On a more general level, healthy living is the true key to building and maintaining a strong immune system. Habits like eating right, staying hydrated, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress account for some long-lasting, immune-boosting benefits.

    But, regular exercise definitely plays an important role, as well.

    Some studies have shown, for instance, that exercise on its own can play a role in reducing the length and intensity of colds and flu. Such research often points to many of the benefits inherent in regular fitness routines as factors that also help ward off illness:

    • Weight management
    • Lower blood pressure
    • Reduction in stress
    • Improved circulation

    Other studies have concluded that regular, mild-intensity exercise can help reduce illness while prolonged, high-intensity exercise can have the opposite effect by making one more susceptible to catching a bug.

    Based on this, if you feel you may be catching something – a cold, a flu or whatever may be going around – the best initial advice is to pull back on the length and intensity of their exercise routine just to be on the safe side.

    Keep getting your exercise, but also take greater care to make sure you’re staying hydrated, eating well and giving your body time to recover.

    If you do get sick?

    According to advice from the Mayo Clinic, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t continue to exercise. They offer the following two rules of thumb:

    The Neck Rule

    If you catch a cold and find that all the symptoms are concentrated above the neck (i.e., nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing and/or a minor sore throat), it’s typically OK to exercise. Simply reduce your intensity. Instead of going for a jog, for instance, opt to go for a walk.

    In contrast, if you find that you’re experiencing symptoms below the neck – things like a congested chest, a hacking cough or an upset stomach – it’s best to not exercise at all.

    The Fever Rule

    Also, if you have a fever or are experience muscle aches and fatigue throughout your body, take a break from exercising. Instead, get some rest, stay hydrated and, if things don’t improve over a couple of days, visit your doctor.

    The bottom line: it’s always your best bet to listen to your body, and don’t overdo it. Pushing your body too hard when it’s fighting an illness could potentially do you more harm than good.

  3. I Stand Corrected! 5 Common Fitness Myths

    October 7th, 2019 by PRN Staff Editor

    Posted in Fitness, Healthy Living, Physical Therapy |

    When only one in three adults get the recommended amount of physical activity their bodies need each week (according to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition), it’s difficult for we as physical therapists to find fault when an individual is making an effort to exercise … even if the effort’s slightly misguided.

    But since October is National Physical Therapy Month, and physical therapists are the medical community’s preeminent experts in movement, fitness, and musculoskeletal function and injury, we view this month as an opportune time to correct what we see as a few common misconceptions about exercise.

    Good Intentions

    Some of the more common personal goals people make revolve around health, fitness and weight loss, and we as physical therapists are dedicated to supporting these goals through a number of individualized services.

    In doing so, though, it’s important to us that people work toward these objectives in a safe and healthful manner – one which most efficiently moves them toward their goals.

    In this spirit, here are five exercise myths we finds to be common among many fitness-minded people:

    1) Stretching Before Exercise Prevents Injuries

    Perhaps surprisingly, research suggests there’s no connection between pre-workout stretching and injury prevention. In addition, stretching before an activity or competition can actually weaken performance.

    So instead, warm up dynamically before a workout by walking, jogging, doing lunges and leg/arm swings, etc.

    Stretching is still incredibly important, but do your stretches independent of your workouts.

    2) The More, the Better

    For the more goal-driven crowd, a pedal-to-the-metal approach to fitness can seem the quickest and most efficient way to better health.

    However, it’s critical workout intensity and length remain in line with one’s current fitness levels and limits.

    It’s also important to schedule recovery, or off-days, into your routine. Failing to do so can increase your injury risk as well as the risk of burnout.

    3) Cross Training is for Athletes Only

    Cross training is simply working activities into your regimen that differ from your preferred or usual activities. The goal is to improve your overall fitness level by challenging your cardio, strength and balance in different ways.

    Such “training diversification” will help maximize your workout potential while helping to prevent overuse injuries and burnout, so everyone should do it.

    4) Aerobic is More Important Than Strength Training

    Whether it’s because some are concerned about too much “bulking up” or they feel spending their limited time on ellipticals and stationary bikes will maximize their efforts, cardio is often a focus for those seeking to improve health.

    It shouldn’t be the only focus, however.

    Muscular fitness is just as important as cardio for such issues as weight management, bone health, injury prevention, and so on.

    5) If Sore or Injured, Rest is Always Best

    Wrong again.

    While rest has a long history as a go-to response to soreness, pain and injury, research now suggests movement and “active recovery” can actually speed up the healing process, specifically when guided by a physical therapist.

    If pain or injury is keeping you from getting a full dose of exercise and physical activity each week, visit a physical therapist.

    Highly educated and licensed health care professionals, physical therapists like those at our clinic are experts at helping people reduce pain, improve/restore mobility, and ultimately lead more healthful, active lives.

  4. 5 Exercises for Improving Balance & Preventing Falls

    September 3rd, 2019 by PRN Staff Editor

    Posted in Injury Prevention, Physical Therapy |

    When we’re young, falls are treated as teaching opportunities. “Get back on your feet, brush yourself off and keep moving toward your goals,” we were told.

    But as we age, falls take on a much greater significance. When someone of advanced age falls, they tend to suffer greater distress to their health as well as their pocketbooks.

    In other words, a fall can greatly impact a senior’s ability to live an active, healthful and independent life. In fact, where older adults are concerned, a fall can have a spiraling effect on their overall quality of life during years typically set aside for much-deserved rest, relaxation and fun.

    Unfortunately, though, falls are an epidemic among seniors in the U.S.

    The Fall Epidemic

    According to the National Council on Aging, an older adult is treated for a fall in a U.S. emergency room every 11 seconds, making it the most common cause for nonfatal, trauma-related hospital admissions among this group.

    In addition, the average health care cost for each of these falls is approximately $35,000 per patient.

    Older bodies are simply more susceptible to serious injury when falls occur. And, while there are some things seniors can do to keep their bonds strong and flexible enough to better absorb a fall, the best course of action is to just prevent falls from happening to begin with.

    This starts with improving balance.

    Balance Exercises

    Like strength and cardiovascular conditioning, balance is something that can and should be improved through regular exercise. With this in mind, try these five exercises to help improve your balance:

    Standing March: As the name says, march in place for up to 30 seconds, slowly raising and lowering your knees throughout. Vary the surface on which you march (i.e., hard floor to the back yard) for more of a challenge.

    Heel to Toe: Starting with both heels touching the wall, put one foot in front of the other so the heel touches the toes of the opposite foot. Repeat with the other foot, as if you’re walking a chalk line. Go for 20 steps each round.

    Weight Shifts: With your feet hip-width apart, shift your weight to one side, lifting your other foot off the floor just a few inches. Hold this pose for up to 30 seconds, then shift and hold on the other leg. Increase reps per your ability.

    Single-Leg Balance: Starting with the same stance as above, now left one leg from the floor, banding it back at the knee. Hold for up to 30 seconds, then do the same with the other leg. Increase reps as your balance improves.

    Tai Chi/Yoga: If you feel your balance is strong and you’ve mastered the above exercises, trying a group Tai Chi or yoga class. Such classes are ideal for exercising balance by strengthening your body and core.

    Safety & Physical Therapy

    If you’re new to any of these exercises, help balance yourself initially by leaning on a table, chair back or wall for safety’s sake. Also, make these simple exercises part of your daily routine.

    And, if you’re a senior or soon-to-be senior who doesn’t currently exercise regularly, it’s smart to start any new fall-prevention effort by first getting a balance assessment from a physical therapist.

    Through a balance assessment, a physical therapist can determine your level of functional balance while pinpointing areas of concern that can be addressed through an individualized fall-prevention regimen.

  5. 6 Common Back Pain Myths, Debunked

    July 3rd, 2019 by PRN Staff Editor

    Posted in Healthy Living, Injury Prevention, Physical Therapy |

    Despite being one of the top causes of disability in the U.S., affecting around eight in 10 people in their lifetimes, back pain is an ailment often misunderstood by those affected.

    Such misconceptions can cause those suffering from back pain to seek solutions, potential treatment paths, and even lifestyle alterations that aren’t necessarily in their best interests.

    Back pain can be as frustrating as it is debilitating, especially if past preventative measures and treatments haven’t been helpful. And, this can lead a person down paths that don’t result in the best and most necessary evidence-based treatments.

    These paths can sometimes lead to treatments that are more expensive or personally invasive – and perhaps even unnecessary – such as MRIs and surgery.

    MRIs, shots, surgery, medication, etc., should mostly be considered last resort-type solutions. The fact is, most back pain issues will go away on their own in a few days. And even when they don’t, most remaining cases can be successfully resolved through safer, more affordable and more effective treatment approaches.

    To help health care consumers make better decisions when considering solutions to their back-pain issues, we’d like to shed some light on the following common back pain myths:

    1. Bed Rest Helps with Relief & Healing: Once a common treatment for back pain, research strongly suggests long-term rest can slow recovery and even make your back pain worse. Instead, treatment involving movement and exercise (i.e., stretches, walking, swimming, etc.) often works better to hasten healing and provide relief.
    2. The Problem’s in My Spine: Back pain can be caused by a wide array of issues throughout the body as well as one’s environment. It can be a response to the way you move when you exercise, how you sit at work, the shoes you wear, the mattress on which you sleep, or simply your body compensating for movement limitations and weaknesses. Back pain doesn’t necessarily mean you have a “bad back,” or are predisposed to back pain.
    3. I Just Need an ‘Adjustment’: Those accustomed to visiting a chiropractor for back pain issues often claim to find relief from having their spine adjusted, or “cracked.” While this process can release endorphins that offer some temporary relief, only about 10 percent of all back pain cases can actually benefit from spine mobilization. Exercise is often more effective, as is determining and treating the pain’s source. (See item No. 2.)
    4. Medication’s the Answer: A popular quick fix, medication should never be viewed as a long-term solution to chronic back pain issues. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help get you through in the short term, but many prescription pain meds can be dangerous, addictive, and even make the pain worse in some instances.
    5. I’ll Probably Need Surgery: Of people experiencing low-back pain, only about 4 to 8 percent of their conditions can and should be successfully treated with surgery, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Even 90-plus percent of herniated discs often get better on their own through a combination of rest and physical therapy.
    6. I Need a Referral to See a Physical Therapist: Multiple studies have concluded that physical therapy is one of the safest and most effective ways to both treat and prevent back pain. And in nearly every state, patients can access physical therapy services without first getting a physician’s prescription.

  6. Tips for Reducing, Managing Plantar Fasciitis Pain

    May 6th, 2019 by PRN Staff Editor

    Posted in Healthy Living, Physical Therapy |

    Studies show about three-quarters of all Americans will experience foot pain at some point in their lives. Of them, more than 2 million people who seek treatment each year will learn they suffer from an overuse condition called plantar fasciitis.

    Fortunately, most cases of plantar fasciitis are both manageable and treatable.

    Plantar fasciitis will typically present itself as sharp pain in the heel or in the arch of the foot, most often when you’re taking the first steps of the day. The pain is the result of your plantar fascia – the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to the ball of your foot – becoming inflamed due to overuse.

    The inflammation that causes plantar fasciitis can come from a sudden increase in activity levels (i.e., walking or running much longer distances) or from sports-related activities that require a lot of running and jumping. Other causes may include a lot of standing, walking or running on hard surfaces, not wearing shoes that properly support your foot type, or being overweight.

    It’s estimated plantar fasciitis affects about 10 percent of Americans at some point in their lives, with most being diagnosed after the age of 40.

    Plantar fasciitis pain may come and go for some without treatment, but we never recommend ignoring pain as this is your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Fortunately, there are some things you can do at home to help relieve the discomfort and hopefully keep the condition from getting worse.

    Tips for the at-home management of plantar fasciitis include:

    Rest: As with any overuse injury, rest is a key component of recovery. Decrease your distances when walking or running, and try to avoid hard surfaces.

    Stretching: Stretch the soles of your feet by gently pulling your big toe back toward your ankle and holding for 10 seconds at a time. Also, wrap a towel around the ball of your foot and, from a seated position with your heel to the floor, slowly pull your toes toward you, stretching the arch of your foot. As tight calves may also make you more susceptible to plantar fasciitis, regular calf stretches are a must.

    Massage: A tennis ball can do wonders as a massaging tool. Roll a tennis ball under the sole of your foot, applying weight as comfort allows. Rolling your foot over a frozen plastic water bottle can also work, with the added benefit of helping decrease pain and inflammation.

    Foot Support: When standing for long periods of time, stand on a thick, padded mat. And don’t take your shoes for granted. Make sure they offer good arch support and that you replace them immediately as the shock absorption begins to wear down.

    If pain persists, however, a more individualized treatment plan from a physical therapist is likely needed. A physical therapist can pinpoint the most likely triggers of your plantar fasciitis pain, then customize a treatment regimen that may include flexibility and strength exercises, footwear recommendations and/or custom shoe inserts, and the possible use of taping or splints to help maintain optimal ankle and toe positions.

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Lake Stevens

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday – Sunday 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Hand Therapy
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
  • Balance Rehabilitation
 

  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Custom Orthotic Fabrication & Gait Analysis
  • Work Injury Management
  • TMJ Treatment

Bryon Flett, PT, DPT, Clinic Director

Bryon was born in Everett, WA and moved to El Salvador with his parents at age 5 and went lived there for the next 13 years, therefore, he is fluent in Spanish. After graduating from high school, Bryon moved back to WA where he attended Whatcom Community College and then transferred to Western Washington University where he obtained his degree in Kinesiology with a physical therapy focus. From there he was accepted to the University of North Dakota in 2015 and earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2018. Bryon enjoys outdoor activities including running, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, hunting, snowboarding, and camping. His passion for physical therapy stems from his inner outdoor enthusiast and loves getting his patients moving in a pain-free manner so that they too can enjoy the subtleties found in life through movement.

Dave Wheeler, MPT, COMT, OCS, CEAS, CCI

Dave has been practicing Physical Therapy since 1998 in orthopedic settings and has been the Clinic Director of the Summit Rehabilitation in Lake Stevens since 2008. After getting his undergraduate degree from Washington State University, he went on to earn his Master of Physical Therapy degree from Idaho State University in 1998. Dave has advanced his education and is recognized as a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, and Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist. He is also a Credentialed Clinical Instructor, accepting PT and PTA students from around the country. Dave uses a philosophy that includes the combination of manual therapies and exercise to provide individualized treatment plans for every patient. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his daughter and in the outdoors.

Bob Fankhauser, PT, M.Ed, COMT

Bob has been practicing for 40 years as a Physical Therapist in an outpatient orthopedic setting. He graduated from Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles, CA and has an Advanced Certification in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy and a Master’s Degree in Education. He has a special interest in the foot and ankle as well as the shoulder and knee. As a former teacher and coach, Bob has a long history of working with middle and high school athletes. He enjoys sports, skiing, traveling and enjoys spending time with his 7 grandchildren.

Adrian Lee, PT, DPT

Adrian graduated in 2016 with her Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology while attending Texas Woman’s University, then continued her education there to complete her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2019. Adrian has a passion for educating and empowering her patients in understanding how they can manage pain from injuries to return to their functional goals. Currently, Adrian is a generalist in outpatient orthopedics with interest in future specialties such as geriatrics and vestibular rehabilitation. In her leisure time, Adrian enjoys hiking, exploring the pacific north west, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.

Hannah Lawrence, DPT

Hannah graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Kinesiology in 2017. She then went on to receive her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from George Fox University in 2020. Hannah is passionate about empowering and partnering with her patients to achieve their individual goals. She believes in encouraging a physically active lifestyle to promote general health and wellness. Hannah is currently taking courses to become specialized in Pelvic Rehabilitation and Women’s Health. Originally from the Portland, Oregon area, Hannah and her husband love spending time outdoors, exploring all the beauty that Washington has to offer. When they’re not out on a trail, you might find them renovating their home in Lake Stevens.

David Dougherty MOTR/L, CHT

David is our newest hand therapist at Summit Rehabilitation-Lake Stevens. He is originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, and has been a hand therapist since 2005.  David completed his clinical internship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC, after graduating with a Master’s of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University, and a Bachelor’s from the University of Texas at Austin.  He also earned the distinction of Certified Hand Therapist from the Hand Therapy Certification Commission.  He has worked as a hand therapist in Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, and recently in Silverdale/Kitsap, WA.  David retired from the US Army after 22 years of service, and settled in Lake Stevens, WA with his wife and children. He really enjoys the Pacific Northwest, and all it has to offer. When he is not at work, David is involved in outdoor activities with his sons.

Elizabeth Stromme, PTA

Liz graduated the University of Washington with a degree in Sociology. Upon graduation she moved to Southeast Alaska where she lived and worked for 22 years. She spent 18 years as a school district paraprofessional working with children with special needs and physical disabilities as well as owning her own massage therapy practice for 12 years specializing in Swedish, Deep Tissue and Lymphatic massage. She was adjunct faculty at the University of Alaska Southeast teaching certifications in massage therapy and she served as a teaching assistant for the University of Alaska Southeast’s anatomy and physiology courses. Liz returned to WA state in 2014 where she obtained her STOTT Pilates Instructor Certification which grounds its teaching principles in exercise science, alignment, and rehabilitation. In addition, she is STOTT certified as a Fascial Movement Instructor and Zenga Instructor. Liz is also PTA certified in LSVT BIG programming for Parkinson’s Disease. Liz graduated Whatcom Community College’s Physical Therapy Assistant program in 2019. In her off-time she enjoys her Pilates practice, teaching Pilates classes, and reading English history.

Lake Stevens – Hand Therapy

Hours:
Monday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Services

  • Hand Therapy Services
  • Custom Splints & Orthotics
  • Post-Surgery/Operative Rehabilitation
 

  • Work Injury Management
  • Repetitive strain injuries

Craig Jordan, MS, OTR/L, CHT, Director of Hand Therapy

Craig is our Director of Hand Therapy and has been working as a hand therapist since his graduation from The University of New England in 2003. Craig graduated with his Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy and then continued his education to receive the distinction of Certified Hand Therapist. Craig continues to develop as a hand therapist with continuing education courses in the area of current upper extremity evidence based best practices. Craig prides himself on his custom fabricated splints using both traditional thermoplastic splinting and functional rigidity casting (FRC). Craig is also an active member of American Society of Hand Therapist’s (ASHT), Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC), National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). When Craig is not at work he enjoys multiday bikepacking adventures and biking and racing with his local cycling team. Craig is married to his college sweetheart and they have two children.

Brittany Cornell, COTA/L

Graduating from Lake Washington Institute of Technology with an Occupational Therapy Assistant AAS-T in 2013, Brittany’s initial exposure to hand therapy was through her clinical rotations and sparked her interest in what developed into her current specialization. She considers the complexities of the hand both academically fascinating and clinically rewarding by therapeutic applications. Developing objective based goals and providing tangible results for her patients keeps Brittany engaged in what she considers to be most relevant for her patient’s well-being. Regarding future professional aspirations, Brittany plans to apply for a bridge program to obtain her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family.

Marysville

Hours:
Monday-Friday: 7:00 am- 6:00 pm

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Hand Therapy
  • Custom Hand Splints & Orthotics
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
 

  • Balance Rehabilitation
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management
  • TMJ Treatment

 

Marc Root, PTA, Clinic Director

Marc Root received his Physical Therapist Assistant training at PIMA medical institute graduating in 2011 and began working at our Cascade Rehabilitation Broadway location later that year. After several years he moved into a float position working at all 10 of our Summit and Cascade Rehabilitation clinics. He has now moved into the Clinic Director Role at Summit Rehabilitation- Marysville. He enjoys helping all types of patients and giving a different perspective to the treatment approach. Marc has a wife, daughter, son and two dogs that he loves to spend time with. In his spare time, he enjoys camping, hunting, fishing and coaching youth baseball. If you see Marc in a clinic you will see him sporting some sort of Seattle Mariners gear and talking about the team during the season and off-season.

Craig Christian, PT, COMT

Why did you become a Physical Therapist?
Leading people from fear, frustration, and disability to ability and confidence is very rewarding.

Continuing Education Commitment: Multiple myofascial and musculoskeletal courses taken over the last 30 years. Currently in the IMPACT program for certification in manipulative therapy.

Personal Interests: Camping, kayaking, fishing, hiking, skiing, and good music are great, but my greatest joy is grandchildren, present and future.

Educational Background: AAS Degree in Medical Radiologic Technology from Oregon Institute of Technology, 1977; BSPT from the University of Washington, 1984; Many CE courses with emphasis on Orthopedics.

Samantha Moseley, PT, DPT

Samantha Moseley is an east coast native who recently moved to the beautiful PNW from Houston, TX after graduating in 2018 with her DPT from the University of Texas — Medical Branch in Galveston, TX.  While she does miss the delicious barbecue that is on every corner in Texas, she has loved getting to explore Washington State. In her spare time Sam enjoys getting lost in the great outdoors no matter the season. She can usually be found tromping through the woods, ascending the various Cascade peaks, skiing all winter, and on the very rare occasion, becoming one with her sofa while watching Netflix.  Sam has experience treating a wide array of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, and believes in facilitating a strong independence in all of her patients. She is currently working towards obtaining her COMT, an advanced manual therapy specialization, and plans in the future to continue pursuing higher education and advanced physical therapy specializations so that she may provide the highest quality evidenced based care possible.

Tracey Hampshire, PT, DPT

Tracey is originally from Houston, Texas and obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in Dallas. She moved to Washington and began working at Marysville Summit Rehabilitation soon after and loves the PNW. She enjoys working with people from all walks of life and strives to create a safe and welcoming environment conducive to healing and lifelong health and wellness. She is passionate about helping people maintain autonomy in their health and healing through exercise and loves to talk about food during each session.  In her spare time Tracey loves to be active through running, hiking, biking, and swimming. She also loves to cook and bake and try new recipes.

Andrea Smiley, PT,  DPT

Andrea Smiley was born and raised in Bellingham, WA, and graduated with her DPT from the University of Washington. In her free time, she can often be found out on the trail training for her next marathon or on a wide variety of outdoor adventures with her husband and adorable vizsla puppy, Annie. When not outside, she is most likely curled up on the couch with a good book. Andrea is dedicated to empowering all of her patients to take control of their health and wellness in order to decrease pain and improve quality of life. She is excited to come alongside a wide variety of community members and assist them in achieving their functional goals.

Lisa Walker, MHA, OTR/L

Lisa is originally from Wisconsin and started her career as a COTA and got her Bachelor Degree from Concordia University of WI and Master in Health Administration from the University of Missouri.  She has a passion for sharing her knowledge of health care and Occupational Therapy with clients and co workers.  Throughout her career she has worked in a multitude of treatment settings including skilled nursing, outpatient orthopedic, home health and administration (to name a few). Currently she is working in Hand Therapy and expanding her knowledge base and certification in this setting. Lisa is an active member  of National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC). In her spare time she enjoys golf, football, camping and motorcycling.

  Brittany Cornell, COTA/L

Graduating from Lake Washington Institute of Technology with an Occupational Therapy Assistant AAS-T in 2013, Brittany’s initial exposure to hand therapy was through her clinical rotations and sparked her interest in what developed into her current specialization. She considers the complexities of the hand both academically fascinating and clinically rewarding by therapeutic applications. Developing objective based goals and providing tangible results for her patients keeps Brittany engaged in what she considers to be most relevant for her patient’s well-being. Regarding future professional aspirations, Brittany plans to apply for a bridge program to obtain her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family.

Justin Hicks, PTA

Why I’m a Physical Therapist Assistant: Growing up watching and playing sports, I have always been fascinated by how the human body works. I also just enjoy people. Physical therapy allows me to pursue my passion while helping those return to life and function.

Continuing Education Commitment: I feel it’s important to never settle and stop learning. I try to learn new ways to do things from each therapist I work with. I hope to get the opportunity to explore Neurokinetic Therapy and the Fascial Distortion Model in the near future.

Personal Interests: I commit majority of my free time raising 3 boys alongside my wife, Rachel. We try to be active with water activities, hikes, and trips to the park especially when the weather is good. When I can escape, I like to play golf, catch a game, bbq, and hang with some friends.

Educational Background: I grew up locally and attended high school in Lake Stevens. I earned a BS in Kinesiology from Washington State University. Go Cougs!! I graduated from the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Whatcom CC in Bellingham in 2009.

Mill Creek

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:30 pm

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Lymphedema Therapy
  • Women’s Health
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
 

  • Balance Rehabilitation
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management
  • TMJ Treatment

Zack Robinson, PT, DPT, Clinic Director

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I knew early on I wanted to be a physical therapist when tore my ACL and started going to PT myself. My PT made a big impact on my life and helped me to gain stability and strength that propelled me to greater heights in my sports. The ability to impact people’s lives in a positive way and allow them to achieve their personal goals has continued to push me to be a better physical therapist.
Continuing Education Commitment: My continuing education interests include completing a fellowship in manual therapy, as well as becoming certified in strength and conditioning. I am also pursuing certification in additional spinal techniques for the state of Washington. I believe in continuously expanding my knowledge to include new research, and to prevent an atrophied mind. The stagnant mind gets left behind.
Personal Interests: My personal interests are varied including weight lifting, spending time with children/family, playing and watching sports, reading, hiking, swimming, television/movies.
Educational Background: I graduated from Minot State University honors and earned a B.S. in Corporate Fitness. I then completed my DPT at Eastern Washington University.

 

Mary Alice Duhme, PT COMT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: Physical Therapy is an amazing career. After 35 years, I still love what I do. I am able to work with patients daily to recover from injury or illness and improve their quality of life. I love building relationships with my patients and helping them progress to better strength, better posture, improved balance and return to the activities they enjoy.

Continuing Education Commitment: I have recently focused my continuing education on Women’s Health/Pelvic Floor dysfunction through the Herman and Wallace Institute. I have also taken courses in Vestibular Rehabilitation to treat dizziness and balance issues. I am presently increasing my manual therapy skills with the IMPACT Program.

Personal Interests: I have been a student of yoga for almost 20 years, which I believe has contributed to my Physical Therapy practice. Living in the Northwest, I love anything that gets me outside-hiking, biking, skiing or tending to my garden. And on a rainy day, I can often be found at a movie.

Educational Background: I received a degree in Biology from the University of California at San Diego, and my Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Maggie Strazzo, PT, COMT

I graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1978. She has worked in a multitude of venues from large trauma hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home care and outpatient clinics. She has certifications in : NDT neurodevelopmental treatment, COMT certified orthopedic manual therapy  from the IMPACT institute, lymphedema manual therapy from the Klose Institute, and vestibular rehabilitation from the Gans Institute. She is currently studying and taken the core courses through Hermann and Wallace in women’s and men’s pelvis health. Maggie enjoys working with patients on a one to one basis to achieve their goals and ultimate wellness.

Snohomish

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
  • Balance Rehabilitation
 

  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management
  • TMJ Treatment

Tyler Cox, DPT, Clinic Director

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: My interest in physical therapy began at a young age, when I became interested in the biomechanics of the different sports with which I was involved. During my years as a collegiate athlete, I was able to experience the profession of physical therapy from a patient’s point of view and was incredibly grateful for the care that I received. These encounters motivate me to work closely with my patients to help them meet their personal goals beyond the physical milestones expected of them.

Continuing Education Commitment: My commitment to my patients relies on education. It is my personal responsibility as a Physical Therapist to be fully engaged in new techniques and relate them to my applicable patients. I am dedicated to expanding my knowledge as techniques and technologies are developed, and currently pursuing my Certification in Manual Therapy and Olympic Weight lifting.

Personal Interests: In my spare time, I enjoy being active, golfing, and supporting Seattle sports.

Educational Background: I received both my Doctorate in Physical Therapy and B.S. in Biology from the University of Washington. During my undergraduate years, I also attended Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where I was a Division I scholarship athlete.

 

Tim Peterson, PT

Why I am a Physical Therapist: When volunteering at a local hospital by chance I was placed in the Physical Therapy department. I immediately found that I enjoyed helping people solve their physical problems. The opportunity to continue to educate and help my patients have a better quality of life is the reason I have continued in this profession for the past thirty five years.

Continuing Education Commitment: I’m committed to the process of continually being open to learn new techniques and skills through attending conferences and seminars, but also from other Physical Therapists and doctors. I also feel that part of my commitment to education is to be available to help teach and mentor other Physical Therapists or assistants with less experience. I have had thirty years of on the field experience in sports injuries of all types and attended NAIOMT through level 3.

Personal Interests: I enjoy watching and participating in all sports especially baseball and football. I love to explore new areas of the Northwest with my wife in our TAB trailer and I enjoy the adventure of fly fishing a wilderness lake or river.

Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy, California State University Long Beach 1978.

 

Katie Tougas, PT, DPT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: For me, physical therapy was the perfect mix of sports and science. Growing up I played many different sports and was in and out of PT many times myself and always had a positive experience. Now as a therapist, I enjoy getting to know each of my patients and building a partnership with them in order to work together towards the common goal of getting them better and back to normal life.

Continuing Education Commitment: The opportunity to continue learning is one of my favorite things about our profession. I am currently pursuing an Orthopedic Manual Therapy certification and am excited to continue expanding my breath of knowledge in the future.

Personal Interests: In my free time I enjoy getting outside to enjoy the PNW – especially hiking, running, and petting every dog I come in contact with.

Educational Background: I received my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Washington. Before that, I completed my undergraduate studies at Seattle University, while running Division I track.

Ryan Keaton, PT,DPT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist:I used to be an accountant believe it or not! I became fascinated with the human body when I experienced a long bout of chronic pain and ended up in a physical therapy clinic as a patient. I loved the environment and decided to pursue physical therapy as a new career. Since becoming a PT, I’ve loved working with people in the clinic, hearing their stories, and helping coach them through whatever they’re dealing with. I really like to motivate and educate people. I believe that’s the best thing we can do for our patients so that they can build self-confidence and independence. As a former triathlete and swimmer, I’ve dealt with my fair share of sports related injuries. I love working with athletes and helping them problem solve so they can get back to their sport.

Continuing Education Commitment: I’m always looking to expand my knowledge and build expertise in certain areas. It’s important we stay up to date on the latest research so that we’re using interventions that are backed by solid evidence.

Personal Interests: I enjoy anything outdoors: hiking, camping, running. On the weekends I’m usually at the climbing gym or outside.

Educational Background:
MSA from Texas Tech University
Doctor of Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University

Andrea Vos, PTA

Why I Chose To Become a PTA: During my career as a dancer and fitness instructor, I became increasingly interested in helping people attain and improve wellness through movement and natural means. My experience as a Certified Personal Trainer and as a Chiropractic Assistant provided a great introduction, but never fully addressed the complete picture of why someone is having pain or experiencing difficulty executing a movement properly and then how to solve this more comprehensively. I decided to go back to school and become a Physical Therapist Assistant in order to work hands-on with people as individuals, each with their unique needs and goals, and make a positive impact by teaching them how to allow their bodies to heal themselves.

Continuing Education Commitment: I am fortunate to be a part of the team at Summit in Snohomish and to work part-time at our sister clinic, Cascade, in Silver Lake, as I am regularly exposed to new and different ideas and techniques from a variety of experienced Physical Therapists. Additionally, I enjoy the opportunities to advance and expand my skills both as a PTA and a Group Fitness Instructor with continuing education courses, such as Muscle Energy Technique, PNF, and different fitness formats. Outside of the clinic, I specialize in teaching Barre fitness classes which are a huge complement to the principles of rehab exercise and provide a safe environment for students to learn stability and core control as well as sculpt their figures.

Personal Interests: In my spare time, I enjoy taking and teaching dance classes, “dinking”, reading, bike riding, hiking, and travelling both internationally and exploring the beautiful PACNW. After relocating to Seattle from Chicago in 2011 with my amazing fiancée, Mohamed, I am happy that my immediate family is now all within reasonable driving distance from each other for the first time in many years, including my step-children, whom are best described as “awesome”.

Radhika Brady, PTA

I became a PTA to better understand the human body and how it works so that I could feel empowered to know what to do in different scenarios. So far, it helps not only my patients in their rehabilitation process, but also my family when they have aches and pains from everyday life. 

 I love to keep learning with continuing education as this field offers so many facets of evolving knowledge to further improve on how to help our bodies heal. I have taken many manual therapy courses, exercise focused courses and taping courses to continue to learn how to better help my patients, and I expect to continue with courses in my field to always strive to be in the know. 

 I have 2 kids and a dog who take up most of my time, other than when I am at work! However, I do enjoy reading, watching movies with the family, and going on mini adventures with my husband. 

 I graduated from Pima Medical Institute in 2012 with my AOS degree and have been a licensed practicing therapist assistant since! 

Sultan

Hours:
Monday – Thursday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
 

  • Balance Rehabilitation
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management

David Cagle, DPT, Clinic Director

David Cagle, DPT, Clinic Director, has been practicing in the Seattle area since graduating in 2018 from the University of Texas Medical Branch with a doctorate in physical therapy. A native of Texas, Dave moved to Washington to escape the heat and explore the beauty of the PNW. Dave served in the US Army and received his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Texas. Current areas of interest include sports rehab, vestibular rehab, and foot and ankle rehab.

Cheryl Robinson, MSPT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I am drawn to physical therapy as a way to empower people to have a hand in their own health, well-being and ability to function. I continue to love my job for those same reasons.  I feel learning and understanding how your body works can lead to a lifetime of improved function and quality of life.  I love the challenge and complexities of the human body and continue to learn every day.

Continuing Education Commitment: I strive to continuously further and better my professional skills and knowledge with up to date education, research and hands on studies to give my patients the best care so they can achieve the most from life.

Personal Interests: In my down time I love being in the outdoors with my 2 boys and my husband. My hobbies include photography, horses and reading a great book.

Educational Background: BS from Indiana University with a Major in Kinesiology and a minor in Psych, Masters in PT from University of Colorado.

Pat Shipe, PTA

Why I’m a Physical Therapist Assistant: I chose to become a physical therapist assistant because I love helping people. I want to teach people how to improve and progress their functional outcome by giving them the tools and knowledge to continue striving for a healthier and more functional body and life.

Continuing Education Commitment: I want to continue learning for my patients. I strive to improve my knowledge, manual skills and techniques, and to upgrade current exercises to give my patients the best care so they can achieve the greatest outcomes.

Personal Interests: I love spending time with my family, precious grandchildren, and of course our two Boston Terriers. I enjoy reading a good mystery book, or watching movies. Outdoor gardening, bird feeding and watching, and in winter months enjoy knitting and crochet, and playing games on my IPad.

Educational Background: I graduated from Green River Community College with an Applied Associates of Science for Physical Therapy Assistant.