Category Archives: Physical Therapy

  1. I Stand Corrected! 5 Common Fitness Myths

    October 7th, 2019 by summitrehabil

    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.

  2. 5 Exercises for Improving Balance & Preventing Falls

    September 3rd, 2019 by summitrehabil

    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.

  3. 6 Common Back Pain Myths, Debunked

    July 3rd, 2019 by summitrehabil

    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.

  4. Tips for Reducing, Managing Plantar Fasciitis Pain

    May 6th, 2019 by summitrehabil

    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.

  5. Strength Training Critical for Active, Independent Aging

    December 1st, 2018 by summitrehabil

    Posted in Fitness, Healthy Living, Physical Therapy |

    To the 43 million Americans who have low bone density, putting them at high risk of osteoporosis, physical therapists have an important message: exercise is good medicine. But not just any exercise – weight-bearing, muscle-strengthening exercise.

    “Essential to staying strong and vital during older adulthood is participation in regular strengthening exercises, which help prevent osteoporosis and frailty by stimulating the growth of muscle and bone,” said David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D., U.S. Surgeon General from 1998 to 2002. “Strength training exercises are easy to learn, and have been proven safe and effective through years of thorough research.”

    And while this benefit of strength training for older adults is a powerful one, it’s simply just one in a list of proven reasons why seniors should make strength training a part of their lifestyles and fitness regimens.

    While a reduction in strength is often considered an inevitable part of getting older, people of all ages should feel empowered to take charge of their overall health (including strength training) as they age.

    Along with diet and regular check-ups with both a physician and a physical therapist, an exercise regimen that includes elements of strength and resistance training can help slow some of the effects of aging – this, while also allowing one to maintain a high quality of life through activity and independence.

    “The work of scientists, health professionals, and older adult volunteers has greatly increased our knowledge about the aging process and how we can maintain strength, dignity and independence as we age,” Satcher said.

    According to reams of medical research, the many proven benefits of weight-bearing and resistance exercise include:

    Rebuilding Muscle: People do lose muscle mass as they age, but much of this can be slowed and even reversed through strength and resistance exercise. And of course, a stronger body has a direct impact on issues related to balance, fall prevention and independence.

    Reducing Fat: We also tend to more easily put on weight as we get older. Studies show, however, that while older adults gain muscle mass through strength training, they also experience a reduction in body fat.

    Reducing Blood Pressure: Studies have also shown that strength training is a great (and natural) way to reduce one’s blood pressure, even for those who “can’t tolerate or don’t respond well to standard medications.”

    Improving Cholesterol Levels: Strength training can actual help improve the level of HDL (“good”) cholesterol in the body by up to 21 percent, while also helping to reduce to levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.

    Strengthening Mental Health: This goes with all exercise, including strength training. Maintaining a high level of fitness can combat anxiety, depression, issues with stress, etc. Exercise is also great for memory!

    Whether walking, jogging, hiking, dancing, etc., experts recommend 30 minutes of weight-bearing activity every day. Guidelines also suggest it’s also necessary to set aside another two to three days of strength and resistance training each week, which can include free weights, weight machines, Pilates, yoga, and so on.

    And for the sake of both health and safety, a thorough strength, movement and balance assessment should precede any new exercise regimen, especially for older adults – assessments that physical therapists are uniquely qualified to perform.

     

  6. Did You Know? National Physical Therapy Month Edition

    October 1st, 2018 by summitrehabil

    Posted in Physical Therapy |

    October is National Physical Therapy Month, and physical therapists everywhere are jumping at the opportunity to remind people about the important role improved and restored movement has on improving society.

    “Pain-free movement is crucial to your quality of daily life, your ability to earn a living, your ability to pursue your favorite leisure activities, and so much more,” states Move Forward, the official consumer information site of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

    Thankfully, more than 204,000 physical therapists are currently licensed in the U.S., all practicing under a single vision statement: transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience.

    According to the APTA, physical therapists are highly educated, licensed health care professionals who exist to help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility – in many cases without the need for expensive surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription drugs.

    “Human health and quality of life depend on the ability to move skillfully and efficiently,” the APTA states in a document titled The Human Movement System. “As a human movement system practitioner, the [physical therapist] has the expertise to examine, diagnose and treat all elements of this system to produce a meaningful change in an individual’s movement behavior and physical function.

    “The PT uses his or her integrative knowledge to establish a plan of care to maximize physical performance of people of all ages, pathologies or levels of physical function.”

    This, of course, includes post-injury/surgical rehabilitation, but physical therapy is much more than that. In fact, physical therapists are specially trained and licensed to improve people’s lives through the treatment of a number of ailments you may not have previously suspected, such as:

    Headaches: Following a thorough evaluation, a physical therapist (PT) can treat chronic tension-type headaches, the most common primary headache disorder, according to the World Health Organization. A PT can identify the cause of such headaches (e.g., muscle tension, joint dysfunction in the neck/jaw, poor posture or stress) and work to improve mobility, strength, posture, and daily work/office routines.

    Pre-Natal/Post-Partum Care: Physical therapists can offer relief for expecting mothers experiencing pain and discomfort in the back, hips and legs through treatment and exercise. After delivery, physical therapy is effective in treating back and pelvic pain while helping new moms strengthen their bodies for the rigors of motherhood.

    Balance, Dizziness & Vertigo: Physical therapists can assess a person’s balance and risk of fall, then provide treatment (e.g., strength training, flexibility or range of motion exercises, for instance) to help improve balance. Many physical therapists are also specially trained to treat positional vertigo, which can often be successfully treated in a single visit.

    Athletic Enhancement: From weekend warriors to elite athletes, physical therapists work with our most active to help them move better, train better and realize their greatest potential as competitors. PTs can provide movement analyses, establish a better training regimen, and assist with equipment selection and adjustments (e.g., shoe orthotics, for instance, or bike fitting).

    In addition, the APTA notes that most PT clients in the U.S. don’t need a physician’s referral in order directly access physical therapy services – unless, of course, such referral is required in order to bill insurance. Contact your physical therapist to learn more.

     

    RESOURCES:

    APTA: Physical Therapist Practice and The Human Movement
    http://www.apta.org/MovementSystem/

    APTA: Vision Statement for the Physical Therapy Professional & Guiding Principles to Achieve the Vision
    http://www.apta.org/Vision/

    APTA: Who Are Physical Therapists?
    http://www.apta.org/AboutPTs/

    Move Forward: Benefits of Physical Therapy
    http://www.moveforwardpt.com/Benefits/Default.aspx#.VgxhehFVhBc

    APTA: PT Careers Overview
    http://www.apta.org/PTCareers/Overview/

    Lehigh Valley Health Network: 10 Ways Physical Therapy Can Help
    http://www.lvhn.org/wellness_resources/wellness_articles/healthy_living/10_ways_physical_therapy_can_help

    Move Forward: Physical Therapist’s Guide to Headaches
    http://www.moveforwardpt.com/symptomsconditionsdetail.aspx?cid=fd8a18c8-1893-4dd3-9f00-b6e49cad5005#.VfxCyBFVhBc

    Move Forward: Benefits of Physical Therapy
    http://www.moveforwardpt.com/Benefits/Default.aspx#.VgrJARFVhBc

    World Health Organization: Headache disorders
    http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs277/en/

     

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Lake Stevens

Hours:
Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 7:00 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

 

Garrett Hoskins, PT, DPT, Clinic Director

Garrett grew up in Washington, attending Oak Harbor High School where he enjoyed track and cross country. He then went on to serve in the United States Navy, gaining the opportunity to see much of the world. Upon completion of his initial service, he went on to complete his first undergraduate degree in Business Management at the University of South Florida. After a short stint in the corporate field, he realized his true passion was in helping others, choosing to return to school working towards a career in healthcare. He then completed a post baccalaureate in Clinical Physiology at Central Washington University (CWU), then continuing his studies with an additional year of work into a Master’s program at CWU in Exercises Science before accepting and completing his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Puget Sound. Garrett joined the Summit Rehabilitation team in Lake Stevens last year. He has a passion for continuing his educational commitment through establishing and adopting best practice standard, education, and research. In his free time, Garrett enjoys the outdoors with his two dogs.

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.

Radhika Brady, PTA

Radhika has been a Physical Therapist Assistant since 2012. She grew up in Mountlake Terrace and graduated from Pima Medical Institute. Radhika enjoys helping people get back to their lives before injury. She is very hands-on, taking the time to listen to each patient’s individual concerns. Radhika is very busy at home with 2 kids, a dog, and a husband to take care of, but in her spare time loves to read and watch movies with her family.

Bryon Flett, PT

Elizabeth Stromme, PTA

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, Wednesday 7:00 am- 7:00 pm
Tuesday, Thursday, 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

Kit Blue, PT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I became a Physical therapist because I believe everyone has potential and I enjoy helping people reach that potential. I have also appreciated the added bonus of the opportunity to develop relationships with my patients as their therapist.

Continuing Education Commitment: One of the truly great things about the Physical Therapy profession is the never-ending growth of knowledge. I have seen significant changes in the past 37 years and have had the opportunity to spend several thousand hours learning from some of the best in our profession to enhance my skills to the benefit of my patients. Some of those skills include manual therapy, functional training, and vestibular rehabilitation. I have a firm belief that you never stop learning.

Personal Interests: In my spare time, now that my four daughters are grown, I enjoy sailing, fly fishing, hiking, gardening, rowing and spending time with my grandchildren and grown children.

Educational Background: Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Montana (Go Griz) in Athletic Training and pre-Physical Therapy and a Certificate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University, 1976

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.

Craig Jordan, MS, OTR/L, CHT

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.

Teagan Norton, PT, DPT

Teagan is originally from Spokane, WA and obtained her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Eastern Washington University. She has a background as a gymnastics coach for both children and high school girls. Teagan’s passion is in working with youth, but she enjoys working with patients of all ages. She strives to provide quality care and patient education to all of her patients. She works with each patient to set goals and help them return to doing the things they love. In her spare time, Teagan enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.

Marc Root, PTA

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.

Katie Soule, PTA

Katie is a Physical Therapist Assistant who graduated from Whatcom Community College in 2017. She began working at the Marysville Summit Rehabilitation soon after and strives to make every patient feel welcome and ensures that they receive quality care. Katie grew up near the small town of Concrete and currently resides in Burlington with her husband. In her free time, she enjoys paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and hanging out with her friends and family.

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

Nick Carter, PT, DPT, Clinic Director

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I knew early on I wanted to be a physical therapist when I began having chronic ankle sprains 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. 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 playing and watching sports, reading, hiking, swimming, hunting, fishing, television, and most importantly, spending time with friends and family.
Educational Background: I graduated from WSU Vancouver with honors and earned a B.S. in Biology. 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.

Daniel Korman, DPT

Daniel earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Eastern Washington University in 2017. He completed undergraduate studies at The University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. In order to advance his clinical skills, he is currently pursuing an Orthopedic Manual Therapy Certification and intends to become certified in pain neuroscience.

Daniel finds that physical therapy lies at the intersection of his professional passions: health and well-being, physical activity, and teaching. He was inspired to enter the field by his brother, who is also a physical therapist, and his aunt, who is an occupational therapy assistant. In his free time, Daniel loves outdoor activities: hiking, rock climbing, and snowboarding.

Snohomish

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

Services

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

  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management
  • TMJ Treatment

Lindsey Knox, DPT, COMT, Clinic Director

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I became a physical therapist because of the unique relationship I am able to build with each patient throughout his or her rehabilitation. I enjoy not only being a physical therapist to help improve patients’ physical condition but also to gain a good rapport and trust.

Continuing Education Commitment: I am committed to continuing my education and growing as a physical therapist. After completing a two-year program that specialized in manual therapy, I received my COMT, certified orthopedic manual therapist. I have also taken numerous courses involving Kinesio Tape, which allowed me to become a certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner.

Personal Interests: In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and staying physically active with yoga and hiking.

Educational Background: I have received a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University, a private college in Virginia and also hold a B.S. in Biology from the University of Idaho where I was a Division I scholarship athlete. I am currently enrolled in Seattle Pacific University’s MBA program and will complete this degree over the next few years.

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.

Tyler Cox, DPT

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.

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”.

Sultan

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

Services

  • Physical Therapy Services
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Sports Medicine
 

  • Balance Rehabilitation
  • Vestibular rehabilitation
  • Work Injury Management

Lindsey Knox, DPT, COMT, Clinic Director

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I became a physical therapist because of the unique relationship I am able to build with each patient throughout his or her rehabilitation. I enjoy not only being a physical therapist to help improve patients’ physical condition but also to gain a good rapport and trust.
Continuing Education Commitment: I am committed to continuing my education and growing as a physical therapist. After completing a two-year program that specialized in manual therapy, I received my COMT, certified orthopedic manual therapist. I have also taken numerous courses involving Kinesio Tape, which allowed me to become a certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner.

Personal Interests: In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and staying physically active with yoga and hiking.

Educational Background: I have received a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University, a private college in Virginia and also hold a B.S. in Biology from the University of Idaho where I was a Division I scholarship athlete. I am currently enrolled in Seattle Pacific University’s MBA program and will complete this degree over the next few years.

Cheryl Robinson, MSPT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: I was 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.
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.

Personal Interests: In my down time I love being in the outdoors with my 2 boys and my husband, photography and horses.

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

Teagan Norton, DPT

Why I’m a Physical Therapist: My first introduction to physical therapy was as a young gymnast with knee pain. My physical therapist made such an impact on my life and made it possible for me to continue with the sport. He took the time to teach me about the anatomy and mechanics of my knee so I could become self-sufficient in managing my own symptoms. As a PT I love the opportunity I get to help patients learn about their bodies and become more active in managing their own health. I especially love working with children and helping them develop healthy habits from a young age!

Continuing Education Commitment: I am currently working on a fellowship through the Ola Grimsby Institute to become a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT).

Personal Interests: In my spare time I enjoy reading, being outdoors, and spending time with my family and friends.

Educational Background: I Graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Eastern Washington University and BS in Health Science from Whitworth University.

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.