October is Physical Therapy Month, and we’re happy to give you an insider’s view of Slocum’s Physical & Occupational Therapy Center. Our dedicated team of therapists is passionate about helping patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the activities they love.

Comprehensive, Patient-First Care

At Slocum, we offer a comprehensive range of services for both non-operative and operative treatment of orthopedic injuries. From shoulders and hands to hips and ankles, our expert therapists are here to guide you through your recovery journey.

What sets Slocum apart? It’s our commitment to personalized care. We dedicate 45-minute one-on-one sessions to each patient, allowing ample time to address specific needs, concerns, and develop tailored home programs. As Steve Roberts, one of our physical therapists, puts it, “We really place the patient first.”

Our therapy team works closely with Slocum’s doctors, ensuring seamless integration. Steve notes, “Due to close proximity to MDs & PAs, it allows for collaboration as needed to provide the most optimal care.”

Meet Our Expert Therapists

Our therapists bring a wealth of experience and specialized skills to their work. Steve specializes in post-operative orthopedic care, focusing on shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. Cory VanSteenwyk shares, “I have worked in general orthopedics for the last 10-11 years, with a primary focus on spine previous to coming to Slocum. I am also certified in the McKenzie Method.”

We’re always looking for ways to enhance our patients’ experience. Our center is equipped with specialized tools like instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy, allowing us to offer cutting-edge treatments.

What does a typical day look like for our therapists? Steve describes it as “Saving the world one total joint at a time!” He continues, “I see 9 patients daily. Each day I chart review which patients I am seeing to familiarize myself with either the injury or surgery the patient had, what phase of recovery they are in, and plan what appropriate treatments would be provided for them on that day to optimize their outcomes.”

Keys to Successful Therapy

Our therapists emphasize the importance of consistency in home exercises. As Steve notes, “Normally 80% of physical therapy patients do not do their home program at home. I strive to help my patients find a program that is right for them.”

Cory shares a piece of advice he often gives patients: “Control the controllables, do your part. I will do all I can to help you, and together we will likely make some meaningful improvements in your condition.”

When it comes to tailoring therapy plans, Steve explains, “We as therapists really have to adjust person to person. This is done through a thorough subjective assessment of what is going well or not and what is important to the patient. We then adjust our therapy session to meet patient goals and to help meet their individual goals.” Cory adds, “Dig a little – determine what is really important to them and work toward improving strength, range of motion, and confidence related to that activity.”

Your Journey at Slocum

When you visit Slocum for therapy, you can expect to be greeted by a therapist who will actively listen to your concerns and work with you to create a plan that aligns with your goals. We understand that every patient’s journey is unique, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

The impact of dedicated therapy can be life-changing. Cory recalls a patient with chronic knee pain who, after just two therapy sessions, was able to walk down a hill to go fishing with her son – an activity she hadn’t been able to do in years. He shares, “She was so grateful for the help and I was pleased that she made such a dramatic change in such a little time, with minimal intervention.”

As we celebrate Physical Therapy Month, we’re reminded of the impact our work has on patients’ lives. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or working to improve your mobility, Slocum’s therapy team is here to support you on your journey to better health and improved quality of life.

Thank you for trusting us with your care. Here’s to many more years of helping our community Live in Motion!