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Exploring the Interconnections between Asthma, Anxiety, and Breathing Mechanics in Functional Posture Analysis
Breathing is one of the most fundamental aspects of life, yet it's often taken for granted. When difficulties arise in breathing, it can be challenging to determine the root cause. Is it asthma? Anxiety? Or could it be a matter of not knowing how to breathe properly? This blog post delves into the interconnections between asthma, anxiety, and breathing mechanics, especially focusing on posture, rib function, and the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Feb 113 min read


Understanding the Effectiveness of Pelvic Health External Exams
Starting a pelvic health evaluation with an external assessment provides a clear picture of your body’s overall function. This approach helps therapists understand how your posture, breathing, and muscle coordination affect your pelvic health. By focusing first on external factors, therapists can create a treatment plan that feels safe, comfortable, and tailored to your needs. Why External Assessment Is the First Step The pelvic region connects many parts of the body, includi
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Feb 113 min read


Understanding TMJ Disorders and How Physical Therapy Can Help
Jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth affect many people, yet these symptoms often go undiagnosed or untreated. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a common cause of these issues, and physical therapy offers effective treatment options that address the root causes. This post explains TMJ disorders, related neck conditions, and how physical therapy can provide relief and improve function. Diagram showing TMJ and neck muscles involved in jaw m
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Feb 113 min read


Blog 3: The Bigfoot 200
Recovery is just as important as training, and Rachel is taking the time her body and mind need to heal, rebuild, and reflect. In her...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Sep 30, 20252 min read


Blog 2: The Bigfoot 200
After months of training and preparation, the moment finally arrived — Rachel set out to conquer the Bigfoot 200 . This 200-mile journey...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Sep 30, 20254 min read


Blog 1: The Bigfoot 200
Earlier this season, we shared some exciting news — Summit Physical Therapy is proudly sponsoring Rachel as she takes on one of the...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Sep 30, 20253 min read


Empowering Lives Through Recovery: Ashlynne's Journey with Pink Badger Cancer Rehab
Having Ashlynne, our first traveler at Summit Physical Therapy, and her family back in town feels like coming full circle, and this time,...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Aug 5, 20253 min read


Celebrating Kristin James and Jay Cherok on Their Outstanding Achievement Passing the Examination for Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy
The world of physical therapy is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, filled with committed professionals who strive to offer the best care...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Jul 10, 20253 min read


Spring Sports Injury Prevention Strategies for Baseball, Soccer, and Track Athletes
Spring is here, bringing warmth and excitement for countless athletes ready to hit the field. Whether it's sliding into home plate in...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
May 10, 20256 min read


Understanding Concussions in High School Sports A Comprehensive Guide for Coaches, Athletes, and Parents
By Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS In the fast-paced environment of high school sports, being aware of concussion management can make...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
May 8, 20254 min read


Meet the Newest Addition to Our Team: Melissa Laye, DPT - Bringing Passion and Expertise to Summit Physical Therapy
At Summit Physical Therapy, we understand the value of human connection and the role of a supportive community in healing. Today, we are...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Apr 24, 20252 min read


The Truth About Shin Splints: A Comprehensive Guide for Coaches, Athletes, and Physical Therapists
By Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS Runner using foam rolling for tissue mobility As a physical therapist, athlete, and coach, I’ve seen...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Apr 17, 20254 min read


From Walk/Run to Marathon: Finding Calm in the Chaos
By: Christina De La Torre, PT, DPT If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d be training for a full marathon, I would’ve...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Apr 16, 20253 min read


Unlocking the Secrets to Youth Wellness: Pediatric Physical Therapy and the Safe & Healthy Kids Fair 2025!
When it comes to the wellbeing of our children, the community has a pivotal role to play, and events like the Safe and Healthy Kids Fair...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Apr 14, 20254 min read


Is Technology in Physical Therapy a Blessing or a Curse? Exploring the Pros and Cons of AI and Automation
As healthcare evolves, the role of technology in physical therapy emerges as a vital topic. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Apr 8, 20253 min read


Unleashing Strength: Meet Our New Travel PT and His Passion for Adventure
Introducing our newest travel PT, Andrew! With a deep background in orthopedic physical therapy and a passion for adventure, Andrew is...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Mar 20, 20252 min read


Exploring a Future in Physical Therapy: The Surprising Opportunities and Rewards in this Field
Love What You Do Stabilization Vestibular Rehabilitation Physical therapy is often a field that remains shrouded in misconception. Many...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Mar 17, 20254 min read


How Summit Physical Therapy's Diverse Team of Clinician Specialties Benefit Patient Care: An Evidence-Informed Approach
At Summit Physical Therapy, we believe that recovery should be personal. Each patient is unique, and their journey to health is not a...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Mar 13, 20254 min read


Empowering Youth Through Coaching: The Impact of Summit's Clinicians on Homer Mariners High School Sports Teams
At Summit, we believe in the incredible power of sports to change lives. Our clinicians are not only skilled in physical therapy, but we...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Mar 12, 20254 min read


Summit Spotlight: A series of posts from our team members
Episode I ~ Lillian Connor, PTA Rising From Failure: How Setbacks Have Shaped My Approach as a Clinician Ernest Shackleton Endurance...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Mar 11, 20252 min read


Join a practice that invests in your happiness. We did, with Prompt!
Experience the power of efficiency with Prompt, the EMR designed to streamline your workflow and save you time. Contact Joanna Owen at...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Mar 7, 20251 min read


Maximizing Professional Growth: Continuing Education and Certification Opportunities for Physical Therapists at Summit
In the fast-changing field of physical therapy, staying current is crucial for growth and success. At Summit, we recognize that...
Joanna Owen, PT, DPT
Mar 5, 20254 min read


Becoming Orthopedic Clinical Specialists: Preparing for the Board Certification Exam and Providing Evidence-Informed Medicine in Homer, Alaska
As Kristin Oelschlegal and I prepare for the upcoming Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Board Certification exam on March 8th, I can't help...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Mar 4, 20253 min read


Unleashing the Power of Networking and Knowledge Sharing at the APTA Combined Sections Conference in Houston, Texas
Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the American Physical Therapy Association's Combined Sections Conference (CSM) in...
Jay Cherok, PT, DPT, Cert. MSKUS
Mar 3, 20254 min read
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