Kathleen Neal, PT, OCS Now Certified as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
 
Kathleen Neal, physical therapist working at Penobscot Valley Hospital’s downtown Rehab & Wellness Center, recently sat for the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties Examination. Neal passed her examination becoming a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedics (OCS). This certification recognizes Neal as a specialist within her field, demonstrating “advanced clinical knowledge, skill and experience in orthopedics.”
 
“This certification is another verification of Kathleen’s dedication to her patients here at the PVH Rehab & Wellness Center.  She has been providing exceptional care for close to 20 years and has enhanced her clinical expertise with this certification,” states Mike Butterfield, Director of Rehabilitation Services at PVH.
 
Patients in search of specialized orthopedic therapy often seek treatment for:

• Arthritis
• Back Pain
• Fitness
• Knee Pain
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Overuse Injuries
• Shoulder Pain
• Sprains, strains, and fractures
• And much more.

This certification program was established by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) to provide formal recognition for Physical Therapists with advanced clinical knowledge, experience and skills in orthopedics. The rigorous, six-hour examination is administered by APTA and requires over 2,000 hours of direct patient care involving orthopedics.
 
Less than five percent of all licensed Physical Therapists have achieved this certification nationally. More locally, the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties reports that there are only 41 therapists certified as specialists in orthopedics in the state of Maine.
 
“I am excited to have earned this credential to reflect advanced practice in orthopedics,” explains Neal, PT, OCS.
 
The PVH Rehab & Wellness Center is located in downtown Lincoln, at 37 Main Street, directly across the street from Marden’s. Staff offer physical, occupational and speech therapies for pediatrics to the geriatric population. The PVH Rehab & Wellness Center is committed to helping patients regain the independence they desire. The comfort and convenience of these services, performed close to home with family, are vital for patients to reach optimal rehabilitation. The facility also provides independent gym services to anyone having a referral from their provider, and will soon be offering a Corporate Wellness Program for businesses to allow employees use of the gym space. Call (207) 794-7228 for more details or to set up an appointment.