About Me

Hi, I'm Matt

I'm a doctor of physical therapy, and I know first hand the frustration of living with chronic back pain. I turned my personal struggle into a mission to help others reclaim their lives. If you need a guide to help you get out of pain and back to the activities you love, I can help

My Story

At 16, I felt a pop in my low back during a football drill, followed by severe pain (acute herniated disc at L5/S1). Though I healed, years later, prolonged sitting during college and my first desk job brought on deep aches, sharp pains, and weakness in my legs. Seeking help, I faced dismissive doctors until a spine specialist’s alarming diagnosis led me to physical therapy—a turning point in my recovery. Inspired by the transformative power of movement and searching for my own back pain solutions, I pursued a doctorate in physical therapy, graduating in 2013 from the University of Washington. Over the past 10 years, I have studied low back pain in depth and worked with thousands of patients suffering from this condition. It has deepened my appreciation for the complexity and nuance of the problem and also helped me become more skilled at incorporating the the most critical elements of an effective low back rehab program. Today, I’m dedicated to helping others overcome chronic back pain and musculoskeletal issues, applying the insights I’ve gained through both personal and professional experience.

Background and Education

  • Education
    • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), University of Washington (2013)
    • BA in Business Administration, University of Washington (2005)
  • Work Experience
    • Senior Physical Therapist, Large Integrated Health System: Over 10 years in orthopedic outpatient care, with a focus on developing specialized group classes for back pain, joint replacement, and fall prevention
    • Site Coordinator of Clinical Education: Led student programs and served as a clinical instructor for student physical therapists
  • Awards & Certifications
    • Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
    • Completed 2-year Manual Therapy Fellowship (American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists)
    • American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Credentialed Clinical Instructor, Level 1
    • Professional Bike Fit Certification (Institute of Clinical Excellence)
    • Eagle Scout Award

NEARBY CITIES

I’m available for in-person meetings with clients in the following areas:

  • Fircrest
  • Tacoma
  • University Place
  • Lakewood
  • Steilacoom
  • Puyallup
  • Parkland
  • Spanaway
  • Fife
  • Ruston

If you’re outside of these areas, I’d still be happy to meet with you virtually to discuss how my services can best meet your needs!

Start Your Journey

If you’re tired of living with limitations and ready to reclaim your life from chronic back pain, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to turn your pain into strength and your limitations into possibilities. Welcome to Low Back Habit.