Our Staff
Physical Therapists:
Madeleine Beiser,PT,DPT,WCS
Women’s Health Residency Mentor
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa.
Bachelor of Arts in Rehabilitation Psychology, University of Wisconsin in Madison.
Areas of special interest:
I enjoy treating a wide range of diagnoses but am currently focusing on becoming a pelvic floor specialist. I also enjoy working with vertigo/vestibular dysfunctions as well as the geriatric population.
Outside of the Office:
You can find me rock climbing with my black lab mix, Scooter. I also enjoy road cycling, mountain biking, backpacking and traveling. Also, searching for the best tacos in the Tucson area.
Melissa Buss, PT, DPT, WCS, CLT
Bodycentral Physical Therapy Director of Education directly
Education:
UPMC WomensRehab and Men’s Health Residency Program
Doctor of Physical Therapy – University of Pittsburgh
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – University of Pittsburgh
Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science with Certificate in Pathokinesiology – University of Pittsburgh
Areas of Advanced Training and Specializations:
Board Certified Clinical Specialist Women’s Health Physical Therapy
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Graduate of ABPTRFE Certified Residency Program – Women and Men’s Health
Bodycentral Education & Residencies Coordinator, Primary Mentor for Residency Programs
Clinic Manager- Swan Location
Areas of Special Interest and Training:
Dr. Buss has had extensive training in Orthopaedic topics and Women’s Health including:
- Spinal Manipulation and Mobilization
- Myofascial Release
- Gynecologic Visceral Manipulation
- Functional Analysis and Management of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex
- Women’s Health Treatment Techniques for (Incontinence, Pelvic Pain, Constipation, IBS, Painful Bladder Syndrome, Pain with Intercourse, Osteoporosis)
- Pregnancy and Post-partum including High Risk Pregnancy
- Tailbone, Coccyx Pain
- Female Athlete Rehabilitation and Conditioning
- Pediatric Incontinence, Constipation, and Bed Wetting
- Men’s Health Prostatitis, Incontinence, Pelvic Pain, Post-Prostatectomy Rehabilitation
- Lymphedema Therapy
- Post -Oncologic (Breast, Pelvic, Gynecologic and Prostate Cancers) Rehabilitation
- Pediatrics including torticollis
- Dry Needling
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association- Women’s Health Section
Arizona Physical Therapy License
Teaching Experience:
Adjunct faculty University of Pittsburgh
Adjunct Faculty and Duquesne University
Outside of the Clinic:
Outside the office Dr. Buss enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to and singing along to music, hiking, cooking, reading, and crafting! She loves traveling and exploring and believes life is one grand adventure!
Anne Hasenkamp,PT,DPT,NCS,C/NDT
Bodycentral Physical Therapy Sports Residency Mentor
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy – Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Integrative Physiology – The University of Iowa
Certified Neuro-Developmental Treatment Clinician
Areas of Special Interest:
Dr. Hasenkamp enjoys working with patients who have neurological conditions, with a special interest in treating Parkinson’s Disease, Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury. Additionally, she takes interest in a variety of other diagnoses in post-op rehabilitation, general orthopedic, and geriatrics to further develop her knowledge and clinical skills. Her goals are to continue seeking out advanced coursework, and to obtain additional certifications for treatment with the neurological patient population.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
Neuro-Developmental Treatment Association
Outside of the Clinic:
Dr. Hasenkamp is originally from Iowa and enjoys returning home to visit her family – especially her three nephews. She loves spending time outdoors with her two dogs, Mellie and Goose. Her hobbies also include running, hiking, traveling, and watching college football. Go Hawkeyes!
Britt Linde, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy – Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sciences – Brigham Young University
Areas of Advanced Training:
Certified Astym provider for diagnosis and treatment of soft tissue pathology
Certified Functional Movement Systems assessment of injury risk
Mulligan technique for joint mobilization
Certified Dry Needling provider
Inside the Clinic:
Dr. Linde specializes in evaluating and treating all orthopedic and sports injuries and conditions. She is passionate about exercise and health and believes strongly in the use of specific manual techniques and therapeutic exercise to correct movement impairments and get patients back to living their life without pain. An avid rock climber as well as previous coach and instructor, Dr. Linde has a special interest in rock climbing injuries and movement. She has spent years educating youth competition teams and climbers on injury prevention and conditioning. Dr. Linde intends on becoming a Certified Hand Therapist in her career as well as publishing literature.
Outside of the Clinic:
Dr. Linde spends the majority of her free time outside rock climbing, mountain biking, and camping with her dog. She also dabbles in drawing, piano, guitar, and writing.
Ethan Paster,PT,DPT,SCS,CSCS
Bodycentral Physical Therapy Concussion Rehabilitation Program Director
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy from St. Louis University
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Outside the Office:
I grew up in St. Louis, MO prior to moving to Fairfax, VA where I attended middle school/high school. I participated in soccer, XC, track, swimming, and took diving to the D1 level at Saint Louis University. I was a diver for all 4 years of undergrad at Saint Louis University before embarking on my professional phase of the PT program and earning my DPT. I enjoy cooking as well as staying active playing soccer, skiing, and being an avid CrossFitter. Sports have always been a huge part of my life and I’m so excited to continue to pursue my interests in the realm of Sports Physical Therapy.
Stephanie Popelka, PT, DPT
Education:
University of Notre Dame: Bachelor of Arts Psychology and Pre-Professional Studies
Northwestern University: Doctor of Physical Therapy
Areas of Special Interest and Training:
Upper Extremity Rehabilitation, Graston Technique, Muscle Energy Techniques, Mulligan Techniques, Joint Mobilization, Trigger Point Release, and Soft Tissue Mobilization. Her interests include Upper and Lower Extremity Rehabilitation, as well as Spine and Pelvis Rehabilitation. She takes a special interest in the rehabilitation of the athlete- on the field or on the workforce.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
Outside of the Clinic:
Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband Jeff, with her dog Thor, and with her children, family and friends. She enjoys cross-stitching, baking, watching sports, playing tennis, skiing, riding her bike and spending time outdoors.
Kristen Waldron, PT, DPT,SCS
Board Certified Sports Clinical Specialist
BodyCentral Sports Residency Program Director
Education and Clinical Specialization:
Doctor of Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis
Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Psychology from Bradley University Gundersen Health Systems Sports Residency
Areas of Advanced Training and Specializations:
American Sports Medicine Institute Injuries in Baseball Course
Foundations in Dry Needling
Impact Trained Physical Therapist
USC Sport-Related Concussion Course
Return-to-sport testing and functional training
Areas of Special Interest and Training:
Post-operative Rehabilitation, particularly ACL and other knee pathologies
Return to running and throwing
Overhead athletes (baseball/softball, volleyball, racquet sports)
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association – Sports Section
Outside the Office:
Kristen is originally from Illinois prior to relocating to Tucson. She enjoys trying new things and remaining active with sand volleyball, softball, Brazillian Jiu Jitsu, kickboxing, bowling, and salsa dancing. She also enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.
Mat Wise, PT, MPT, OCS
Education:
Master of Physical Therapy University of Pittsburgh Bachelor of Arts University of Maryland University College
Areas of Advanced Specialization:
- Orthopedic Clinical Specialist ABPTS
- Certified Functional Capacity Evaluator
- Mentor Body Central Sports Residency
- Clinic Manager: Tanque Verde Location
Professional Memberships:
APTA – Orthopedic Section
Areas of Special Interest and Advanced Training:
Mat has been practicing Physical Therapy since 1990. A 27 year Navy veteran; Mat spent his time in the service keeping our warrior athletes in the fight. During this time he honed his craft working in many diverse settings both overseas and in conus to include major medical facilities, branch clinics, training commands, and aboard an Aircraft Carrier. He has attended a multitude of continuing education courses and has excelled at each of his assignments. Areas of special interest and advanced training include:
Muscle Energy Techniques for the Spine and Extremities Spinal Manipulation and Mobilization Myofascial Release Dry Needling Post-Operative Rehabilitation KT Taping Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Rehabilitation of Sports and Orthopedic Injuries Lower Extremity Rehab Return to Running / Return to Sports Injury Prevention / Wellness LBP and Core strengthening
Outside the Office:
Mat enjoys spending time with his family and playing Golf. Much of his time is spent running his children to their extracurricular activities…soccer, golf, and ice hockey. He enjoys cheering on the Steelers and the Penguins!
Samuel Rauchwarter, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of Jamestown (Fargo, ND)
Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, University of St. Thomas – St. Paul, MN
Areas of Special Interest:
Sam enjoys treating a variety of sports rehabilitation and orthopedic conditions with a special interest in injury prevention and strength and conditioning. He enjoys continuing to learn about how the body moves while learning the latest rehabilitation techniques to help get his patients back to full health. Sam has a specific interest in endurance athletes such as swimmers, cyclist, runners, and triathletes.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association – Sports Section Member
Outside the Clinic:
Sam enjoys exploring the outdoors and training for triathlon outside of the clinic. As a Minnesota native, he enjoys the sunny winter weather and getting outside with friends and family.
Diamond Jones, PT, DPT
Education
Doctorate of Physical Therapy- University of Massachusetts Lowell
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology- University of Massachusetts Lowell
Areas of Special Interest
As a former athlete, Jones enjoys treating a wide variety of sports rehabilitation and orthopedic conditions. Her future goals are to continue furthering her knowledge and skills in these areas as well as becoming a board certified sports clinical specialist.
Outside of the Office
Diamond was born and raised in Lowell MA, receiving both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from UMass Lowell, where she was a sprinter and triple jumper on the Track and Field team. She loves traveling, going to concerts, spending time with family and friends, and staying active-including hiking, lifting weights, and playing basketball. Since her move from Massachusetts, she has now been spending a lot of time exploring all that Tucson has to offer.
Nikole Nelson, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy-University of Central Florida
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science-University of Florida
Areas of Special Interest:
Dr. Nelson has an interest in treating a variety of orthopedic and sports-related injuries, with a primary focus on running-related injuries. Her goals are to learn about her patient’s values and provide education, while utilizing an evidenced-based approach in her treatment.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
Outside of the Clinic:
Originally from Florida, Dr. Nelson likes rooting for her team, the Florida Gators. In her spare time, she enjoys running and training for anything from a 5K to an ultramarathon. She also enjoys hiking, cooking, traveling, learning new languages and cultures, and relaxing at coffee shops with a good book.
Craig McEwan, PT, DPT
Education:
Bachelors degree in Biological Sciences – UC Davis (1983)
Masters degree in Physical Therapy – Northern Arizona University (1992)
SFMA Level 2 certification
27 years experience, orthopedic and neurological, in a variety of settings PT settings
APTA member
JaAsha Pena, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy- Florida A & M University
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology- University of Georgia
Areas of Special Interest:
Dr. Peña enjoys treating a variety of diagnoses and is currently working to become a pelvic floor specialist. She has a special interest in visceral manipulation as well as spinal manipulation and mobilization. Her goal is to take advanced courses to increase her body of knowledge and develop her clinical skills and combine her passion for health and fitness with the healing art of physical therapy, specifically to help regain our most essential functions for a happier, healthier life. Dr. Peña also plans to become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.
Professional Memberships
American Physical Therapy Association- Section on Women’s Health
Outside the Clinic:
JaAsha is a native of Oklahoma with plans to take advantage of all the scenic, outdoor adventure that Arizona has to offer. In her free time, she loves spending time with her friends and family. She also enjoys reading, cooking, singing, listening to music, and cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs.
Amber Kraaz, PT, DPT, OCS
Education:
Andrews University- Doctorate of Science (currently in progress)
Midwestern University- Doctor of Physical Therapy
Northwest Christian University- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Therapeutic Associates Clinical Orthopedic Manual Therapy Residency Program
NAIOMT Orthopedic Manual Therapy Clinical Fellowship Program (currently in progress)
Advanced Certifications:
Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
Certified Manual Physical Therapist
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Areas of Special Interest:
Dr Kraaz has experience working with a wide variety of patients including athletes, geriatrics, aquatic therapy, post-surgical, and Parkinson’s treatment as well as general orthopedics. Her favorite areas to treat are the spine, foot and ankle, and knees. She utilizes a combination of manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, trigger point dry needling, and cupping. Dr Kraaz is always striving to individualize treatments for each patient to get them back to usual activities sooner with less pain.
Outside of the Clinic:
Dr Kraaz was born and raised in Oregon but recently moved to Tucson to enjoy the sunshine. When she is not in the clinic she is spending time with family and friends, hiking, playing sports, exercising, and traveling. She has two fur babies at home that also keep her busy.
Erik Bidinger, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy at Walsh University in North Canton, OH
Bachelor of Science in Biology/Pre-med at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN
Areas of Special Interest:
I enjoy working with sports/athletic populations – especially soccer players. I also have a special interest in treating concussion patients and am passionate about educating patients regarding this and getting the athlete/patient back to the sport in the safest way possible. I also enjoy working with dizzy/vestibular patients. I completed an internship at the Cleveland Clinic with special training in vestibular and concussion management.
Outside of the Office:
I enjoy playing soccer (previously played soccer in college and while growing up in Germany). I also enjoy general fitness – such as going to the gym, going on a hike or walks/runs. I also like to spend time with my wife and our “zoo” – 3 dogs and 6 cats.
Membership:
American Physical Therapy Association
Ashley Mitchell, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy- University of Texas Medical Branch
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science- University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Areas of Special Interest:
Ashley enjoys treating neurological conditions as well as orthopedics. She has a special interest in functional movement, balance, and injuries of the upper extremity and cervical spine. Her goals are to practice lifelong learning in order to best treat her patients.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy
Outside of the Clinic:
Ashley is originally from Texas. Her favorite activities outside of the clinic include food adventures, being in nature, grooving to music, and curling up with a good book.
Vincent Adams, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy – Augusta University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science – University of Georgia
Areas of Special Interest:
Vincent enjoys treating athletes of all ages with a special interest in baseball and softball athletes. He has an extensive background in exercise and sports science and utilizes movement based therapy to help his patients address their deficits. Vincent is working towards becoming a sports certified specialist.
Outside the Office:
Vincent is originally from Atlanta, GA. He enjoys a variety of activities such as hiking, weight training, trying out new restaurants and hanging out by the pool. He also enjoys playing slow pitch softball and rooting on the St. Louis Cardinals!
Manali Adi, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy – Augusta University in Augusta, GA Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Augusta University in Augusta, GA
Areas of Special Interest:
Manali has an interest in treating women’s and men’s pelvic health and lymphedema, with a special interest in pregnant and postpartum care. She went to nursing school prior to becoming a physical therapist and enjoyed her rotation in labor and delivery which sparked her interest in treating this population. Her current goal is to become a board-certified specialist in Pelvic Floor.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association – Section on Women’s Health
Outside of Clinic:
She enjoys cooking, reading and attending Zumba classes. As a recent transplant from Georgia, she enjoys going on adventures and exploring Arizona with her dog, Maple. She is always on the hunt for the best Thai food, and is seen cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs!
Cody Chang, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy – Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Science Animal Biology – Louisiana Tech University
Areas of Special Interest:
Dr. Chang enjoys working with patients requiring rehabilitation from stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. He also works in general orthopedics with patients of all age ranges. His goals are to further his knowledge in neurological/orthopedic rehabilitation, and pain science.
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists
Outside of the clinic:
Cody enjoys experiencing everything Tucson has to offer, particularly the restaurants. He and his wife like to attend a variety of music events, spending time with family at the lake, and playing golf in the white mountains. Cody also volunteers his time working with a local charity organization focusing on youth-oriented causes.
Yeri Kil, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Drexel University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Bowling Green State University
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association – Sports Section
Areas of Special Interest:
I enjoy treating a variety of sports rehabilitation and orthopedic conditions. My goals are to further my knowledge in physical therapy care and obtain a sports certification after completing the residency.
Outside the Clinic:
I am originally from Pennsylvania where I grew up competing in gymnastics and eventually continued to compete at Bowling Green during my undergrad. I enjoy staying active, participating in obstacle course races, hiking, watching sports and hanging out with family and friends.
Samantha Beeman, PT, DPT
Education:
Areas of Special Interest:
Professional Memberships:
Outside of the clinic:
Marija Zaruba, PT, DPT
Education:
Areas of Special Interest:
Professional Memberships:
Outside of the clinic:
Elaina Stover, PT, DPT
Women’s Health and Orthopedic Physical Therapist
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Washington University in St. Louis, MO.Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience, University of Rochester in Rochester, NY.
Areas of special interest:
Elaina is passionate about sports orthopedic therapy and pelvic floor dysfunction. She received additional training in sports performance at Exos in Texas in which she learned evidence-based methods to rehabilitate athletes of all ages. She also received pelvic health physical therapy training with the APTA and is currently pursuing advanced skills as a pelvic floor specialist. She enjoys working with all populations to improve health and wellness. She enjoys collaborating on physical therapy research with peers on topics in orthopedic rehabilitation and yoga interventions.
Areas of interest and expertise:
- Athlete rehabilitation, Exos Performance Specialist
- Integrative health and wellness, Registered Yoga Teacher
- Myofascial release
- Spinal manipulation & mobilization
- Certification in Dry Needling
- Women’s Health Treatment Techniques for (Incontinence, Pelvic Pain, Constipation, IBS, Painful Bladder Syndrome, Pain with
- Intercourse, Osteoporosis
- Pelvic Health Level 1 Certification
- Functional Movement Analysis
Outside of the Office:
Elaina’s favorite ways to relax and have fun include rock climbing and playing tennis. She also enjoys the symphony, salsa music, and social dancing.
Rebecca Blauser, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences — Austin, Texas
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of Texas — Austin, Texas
Areas of Special Interest:
Rebecca’s passion is treating patients with neurological disorders, with a special interest in stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and Guillain Barre syndrome. Rebecca also enjoys working with gait impairments and fall prevention and recovery. She loves the intricacies and nuances of how the brain, neurological system, and musculoskeletal system work together to move us in different ways and finding creative treatments to help get the body back to its normal function. Growing up an athlete herself and having physical therapy for her own injuries, she also enjoys working with patients with orthopedic injuries. She continues to seek out further education, training, and certification in these areas.
Outside of the Clinic:
Rebecca is an Austin, Texas native where her family still resides, so she loves going back to visit all her family and friends there, and of course enjoying that real Texas barbecue! In addition, she enjoys exploring all around Tucson and Arizona with her husband, Brandon, and 2 dogs, Luna and Mia. Her other hobbies include playing soccer, hiking, yoga, and finding any excuse to be outside. Always up for an adventure, Rebecca loves trying new restaurants and events around town as well!
Kristen Fisher, PT, DPT
Women’s Health Resident
Education
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO
Bachelor of Exercise Science, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS
Areas of Special Interest
As the women’s health resident, I am focusing on obtaining my certification of specializing in pelvic health therapy. I really enjoy working with patient’s during their pregnancy and post-partum.
I am certified in dry needling and looking forward to becoming skilled in visceral therapy.
Professional Membership
American Physical Therapy Association: Section of Women’s Health
Outside the office:
I spend my time hiking on the weekends and enjoy spending time with family and friends as well. I am always looking to plan my next trip as I love traveling. Fall is my favorite time of year because it’s football season, Go KC Chiefs!
Laura Haley, PT, DPT
Education:
University of Arizona – Bachelor’s in Public Health
Northern Arizona University – Doctorate in Physical Therapy
Advanced Training:
Laura is a level 1 and level 2 certified pelvic floor therapist through Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. Laura is a very passionate pelvic floor therapist and has aspirations to receive a speciality in Women’s Health/Pelvic and abdominal therapy via the APTA.
Outside of the clinic:
Laura enjoys mountain biking, cycling, rock climbing, trail running, skiing, competing in X-Terra Triathlons, and drinking beer.
Bridgette Darton, PT, DPT
Alyssa Nocella, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Drexel University
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Bowling Green State University
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association – Sports Section
Areas of Special Interest:
I enjoy treating a variety of sports rehabilitation and orthopedic conditions. My goals are to further my knowledge in physical therapy care and obtain a sports certification after completing the residency.
Outside the Clinic:
I am originally from Pennsylvania where I grew up competing in gymnastics and eventually continued to compete at Bowling Green during my undergrad. I enjoy staying active, participating in obstacle course races, hiking, watching sports and hanging out with family and friends.
Matt Brown, PT, DPT
Education:
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Midwestern University
Bachelor Degree, Arizona State University
Outside of the Clinic:
I was born and raised in Arizona. I played basketball in college and enjoy playing all sports and doing outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and snowboarding. I like to take my dog Maya with me everywhere I go and to volunteer when I can.
Athletic Trainers
Alexandra Vladyka, MS, AT, ATC, CSCS
Education:
Master of Science in Athletic Training at Ohio University
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at Washington State University
Advanced Training/Certifications:
Certified Athletic Trainer
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Graston Technique
Areas of Special Interest:
Alee loves working with performing artists, including dancers, musicians, actors, theater production staff, marching band members, cheerleaders, acrobats – you name it! She comes to Bodycentral from a university-level performing arts medicine clinic. As an Athletic Trainer, she has a variety of experience working with athletes (both traditional and performance) of all levels, from high school to PAC 12. She loves working with patients on-site at events as well as in the clinic. Alee believes in using a combination of manual therapy, exercise, and education in the treatment of her patients.
Professional Memberships:
National Athletic Trainers’ Association
International Association of Dance Medicine & Science
Performing Arts Medicine Association
National Strength and Conditioning Association
Research:
“Effect of Fatigue on Muscle Contractions in Dancers Performing Drop Landings in Coupé”
Outside the Office:
Alee is originally from the state of Washington and she is an avid Seahawks and Coug fan. In her free time, Alee loves DIY projects, crafts, and baking (and she loves sharing her baked good creations!). She also enjoys being outside, playing volleyball, dancing, singing, and being around loved ones. When she can, Alee enjoys travelling and experiencing other cultures – especially the food!
Physical Therapist Assistants:
Andres Avalos, PTA
Education:
- Rio Rico High School, class of 2002
- Pima Medical Institute – AOS in Physical Therapy
- Certification and special training
- John F. Barnes Myofascial releases 1
- John F. Barnes Myofascial mobilization and Kinesio tape
- FMT Rockblades
- Strain and counter strain
- Cervical and thoracic mobilization
Outside the officeAndres loves his free time making memories with his two children; Edan and Andrea. He enjoys watching movies, creating culinary dishes with his wife Ashley, eating great food and being an honest, hardworking family man.
Hector Benitez, PTA
Education:
Cholla High School class of ’01
- Played Basketball – Guard and Small Forward
Pima Medical Institute: Associates Degree of Occupational Science (Physical Therapist Assist)
- David Morkert Inspiration Award
Outside the office:
Hector hails from Chicago, Illinois and so he LOVES the Cubs and Bears. He enjoys spending time at the park and swimming with his wife Stephanie and two daughters Emma and Ella. He also enjoys playing Drums, basketball and golf.
He loves to eat – especially sushi.
Ashley Elliott, PTA
Education:
Marana High School; Graduated as a Certified Nursing Assistant; 2006
Pima Medical Institute; Certificate in Phlebotomy; 2009
Pima Medical Institute; Associates Degree in Occupational Science; 2014
Areas of Special Interest:
Ashley is very interested in expanding her knowledge in areas such as:
- Orthopedic Rehabilitation
- Women’s Health
- Manual Therapy
Outside the Office:
She enjoys spending time with her family, trying new recipes (especially those she finds on Pinterest), getting lost in a book from time to time, as well as, making memories and laughing as much as possible with her fiance Cavin.
Gavon Michalegko, PTA, CPT
Education:
Sabino High School class of ’03
Pima Community College; Associates Degree in Liberal Arts
Pima Medical Institute; Associates Degree in Occupational Science (Physical Therapist Assistant); 2011
Areas of Advanced Training and Specialization:
Graston Technique; 2012
Certified Personal Trainer through ACE (American Council on Exercise) – 2016
Areas of Special Interests:
12 years of soccer experience in Tucson, AZ
Outdoor Sports and Recreational Activities-Hunting, Fishing
Weight Training and Strengthening/Conditioning
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Professional Memberships:
American Physical Therapy Association
T. Steve Mills, PTA, CPT, Wellness Director
Education:
Pima Medical Institute – Associates of Occupational Science (Physical Therapist Assistant)
University of Colorado Boulder- Associates of Business
Certifications and Special Training
Certified Personal Trainer (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
Performance Enhancement Specialist (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
Corrective Enhancement Specialist (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
Team Quest MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Instructor’s Course
Outside the Office:
In my free time I have enjoyed all kinds of outdoor activities. I love to hike, climb, and camp with my wife and my dogs. I have also been heavily involved in martial arts for most of my life, with backgrounds in muay thai, jui jitsu, and wrestling.
Kristi Vanputten, PTA, CKTP
Education:
Graduated from Northern Virginia Community College 1993
Graduated from Northern Virginia Community College 1993
Began PTA career in VA and has since practiced in GA, SC, and AZ in a variety of outpatient orthopedic clinics
Was first PTA in Northern Arizona at Flagstaff Medical Center
Joined Bodycentral in 2007 and works in our orthopedic and Women’s Health Teams
Certifications and Area of Interest:
CPT, Certified Personal Trainer,
2006 Graston Training
2010 CKTP Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner
2012 CPR for health care practitioners
Has been with Body Central since 2007 at Swan and OV office treating orthopedics and pelvic health
Outside of the Office:
Has been busy raising 2 teenage boys. In her free time, she loves being with her husband camping, building their weekend getaway cabin. At home enjoys listening to music, reading and watching college football.
Joshua Smith, PTA
Education
Marana High School class of ‘09
Pima Medical Institute – Associates of Occupational Science (Physical Therapist Assistant)
Areas of Special Interest:
- Neurological and Orthopedic Rehabilitation
- Strength and Conditioning
Outside the office:
Joshua is a native Tucsonan who enjoys camping, hiking, and playing video games. He is also an active Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fighter and has competed in various state, national, and international tournaments
Paula Christian, Outreach Manager
Education:
Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in Merchandising/Child Development Associate Credential (CDA)
Paula eventually made her way to Tucson from New Jersey in search of a warmer climate to enjoy the outdoors year round. She speaks Portuguese and welcomes the opportunity to practice it whenever she gets the chance.
Outside the Office:
When she and her husband are not busy following their two boys around to soccer, swimming, dance, gymnastics and cross country meets, she enjoys running. After the challenge of training and competing in a marathon, Paula has become interested in trail running which combines her love of running and hiking. Winding down with friends and family makes all the craziness worth it.