PhysioCare Physical Therapy: Rehab The Right Way

Barrett "Bret" Swigard (MPT, OCS, COMT, c.MDT)

I graduated with honors from Eastern Washington University in 1997 with a Bachelor’s in Human Biology and a Minor in Chemistry. Upon graduation, I was awarded the prestigious Mary Shields Wilson Award and the Most Outstanding Student in the Biology Department. In 1999 I graduated Cum Laude with a Masters of Physical Therapy from EWU. In 2001 the American Physical Therapy Association certified me as a Clinical Instructor. In 2002 I received certification in Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment of the Spine by the International McKenzie Institute. In 2004 I became an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists. In 2006 I received certification as an Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist by the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy (NAIOMT). In 2010 I became a Certified Orthopedic Manipulative Therapist by NAIOMT and I am currently in their Orthopedic Manual Therapy Fellowship Program.

My treatment philosophy includes a heavy emphasis on education. Patients who understand their pathology have better long term management and overall better outcomes. Rehabilitation is exciting and empowering. I take great pride in restoring patients to their optimal health.

Away from work, I enjoy perpetual house renovation, modifying my car, racing it at the track and spending time with my wife and two daughters.

Andy Lodato (MPT, CMPT, c.MDT)

alodato@physiocarept.com

I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I was a Psychology major at Texas Tech University with a desire to eventually attend Physical Therapy school. I finished my Masters of Physical Therapy from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2000. After graduation, I relocated to the Seattle area. My first job was in Everett, WA and since then I have worked strictly in orthopedic and sports medicine clinics in Bellevue and Kirkland.

In 2002, I completed a certification in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy of the Spine from the Mckenzie Institute International. This certification sparked my interest in disorders of the spine. Recently, I completed a certification in manual therapy from the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy. My interests include lower extremity biomechanics, orthotic prescription, and sports rehabilitation.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, rooting for our local sports teams and playing sports. I am actively involved in flag football, softball and golf.

Mary Beth Ackerman (PT)

mbackerman@physiocarept.com

I graduated from the University of Montana with high honors in 1997. My professional interests include sport and spine rehabilitation, gait/movement analysis, custom orthotics, and women’s health issues. I am a certified pre/post natal exercise consultant and in the process of receiving my certification in pelvic floor rehabilitation. I have worked in a variety of settings, including acute patient care, skilled nursing facilities, a continence center, and a variety of outpatient settings.

I grew up in Alaska, and after school in Montana, I moved to Pueblo, CO to work at a hospital there. I transferred to Seattle in 2001 to be closer to family and to return to water and green surroundings. Since moving here, I have enjoyed all the northwest has to offer. I regularly help lead scuba trips to Canada, south Puget Sound, and also tropical destinations. Outside of physical therapy, I enjoy teaching scuba diving, volunteering at the Seattle Aquarium, and taking in Mariner games. Competing in triathlons helps me stay active and allows me to understand the finer points of cross-training.

My treatment philosophy focuses on looking at the individual as a whole. It takes each piece of the puzzle put together to find a treatment designed for each individual. Understanding people have very busy lifestyles, I incorporate a “quick and easy” home program as well as other small changes that will improve your quality of life.

Kendra Liere (DPT)

kliere@physiocarept.com

I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Southern California in 2003. My professional interests include Performing Arts Rehabilitation, Pilates, and Sport & Spine Rehabilitation. I make it a point to stay up to date on the latest research in these fields as I continue to pursue advanced certifications. I have worked in a variety of settings including acute care, skilled nursing and outpatient centers.

My therapy treatment focuses on providing patient education for improved postural and body awareness to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent future injury. By assessing the person as a whole, not just the symptoms, I can combine hands-on techniques, functional movement, and stabilization to create realistic and individualized plans.

I am a northwest native and enjoy getting outdoors, including hiking, backpacking, bicycling, snowboarding, and scuba diving. I also love to travel and am anxious to explore other regions and cultures of the world. Having danced professionally, I am passionate about supporting the arts and enjoy attending various performances throughout the year.

HoChin An (MPT)

hocan@physiocarept.com

I graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in Architecture in 1992. After a minor injury at a Seattle Mariner’s game in 1995, my interest turned towards physical therapy. In 2001, I earned my Masters of Physical Therapy from Eastern Washington University. Upon returning to the greater Seattle area, I focused mainly on outpatient orthopedic and sports medicine. I also practice Vestibular rehabilitation.

I believe patient education plays a tremendous role in a successful recovery. I make great efforts to make sure that each patient understands his or her physical dysfunction and responsibilities to a positive outcome. A skillful execution of manual therapy, neuromuscular retraining, and education is the key to facilitate patients to reach their functional goals.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and three children. I regard myself as a weekend warrior and enjoy playing softball, tennis, and golf. I am also fluent in Korean.

Josh Saylor (MPT, OCS, CSCS)

jsaylor@physiocarept.com

I was trained at the University of Washington Physical Therapy program. I have a BA in Exercise and Sport Science, from Western Washington University. I am a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. My post-graduate studies include North America Institute of Manual Therapy through Level III, McKenzie Method, Mulligan Concept, Physical Therapy Association of Washington (PTWA) conferences, UW Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine courses, and classes in lower extremity biomechanics. I enjoy working with elite athletes and the non-athlete. I perform biomechanical evaluation and casting for custom foot orthoses. I have a special interest in bicycle fit assessment. My memberships include American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), PTWA, and National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

My treatment philosophy balances patient education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercises. Before joining PhysioCare, I worked for several years in Issaquah and Bellevue, caring for patients with orthopedic and spine problems, imbalance and difficulty walking. I enjoy working with everyone – we all deserve excellent physical therapy. I believe that careful evaluation and good communication leads to a successful treatment plan.