The profession of physical therapy has specialist certifications in certain practice areas. These certifications indicate that the certified individual has additional education, experience, and expertise in that practice area. Our founder and lead physical therapist is a certified specialist in geriatrics, meaning additional expertise in how the body ages and how to manage conditions that are more common with age. Certified specialists are required to stay up to date on research, education, and specific experience with recertification every three to nine years.
*Few clinics have a GCS on staff.
Conditions for which this indicates advanced expertise include:
- Arthritis
- Joint replacements
- Neurological conditions such as stroke (CVA), “mini stroke” (TIA), Parkinson’s, effects of Alzheimer’s, and more
- Bone conditions such as osteoporosis and compression fracture.
- Balance deficits
- Vertigo, dizziness, and vestibular problems
- Gait/walking/transfer problems
- Cardiovascular health such as congestive heart failure (CHF), peripheral vascular disease (PVD), and previous heart attach (MI) or related surgeries.
- Endurance and lung capacity issues
- Chronic fatigue
- And more…
Most of these areas of concern have specific research-backed protocols, which are not common knowledge among other providers. A specialist can help identify which is best for you. Dr. VanSlyke is the only registered geriatric specialist in our area.