News and Events
Jenna Villafuerte, PTA
Lindsey Nauman
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Jenna Villafuerte & Lindsey Nauman attended the Functional Strengthening in Children
Rockford, IL - June 2010 - Physical Therapist assistant, Jenna Villafuerte and Physical Therapist Lindsey Nauman of Orthopedic RehabSpecialists, Rockford IL attended Functional Strengthening in Children. This program is designed for therapist to implement successful treatment programs to improve strength, endurance and function in children with disabilities and chronic conditions such as cerebral palsy, hypotonia, autism, developmental coordination disorder and obesity. If you have questions or would like to make an appointment with Jenna or Lindsey call Orthopedic Rehab Specialists of Rockford at 815-227-1700.
Leah Crull, OTR/L CHT
Karen Weber, OTR/L CHT
Leah Crull & Karen Weber with Certified Hand Center of Rockford/Byron attended
Wisconsin Hand Experience 2010 Critical Thinking: The Tough Cases
Rockford, IL - May 2010 Leah Crull & Karen Weber Certified Hand Therapist in Occupational Therapy, attended the 2010 Wisconsin Hand Experience conference at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. This year's conference, Critical Thinking: The Tough Cases focused on the injuries of the hand, boney fixation, soft tissue repair and the importance of intrinsic and extrinsic balance for coordinated movement and strength. To learn more contact Leah Crull or Karen Weber today at Certified Hand Center of Rockford (815) 226-8780
Rachel Viel, PT, MS, CWCE
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Rachel Viel attended Functional Assessments & Exercise Programming
Rockford, IL - May 2010 Rachel Viel with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists attended Functional Assessments & Exercise Programming. Rachel learned new innovative exercises for specific chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. These exercise drills will improve cardiovascular function, lower and upper body strength, posture, core, hand dexterity, balance, gait and agility. If you want to learn more contact Rachel Viel at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Rex Brown, MS, EP, CEAS
Rachel Viel, PT, MS, CWCE
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Rex Brown & Rachel Viel attended the 17th Annual WorkSTEPS® Provider Symposium.
Rockford, IL May 2010 - Orthopedic Rehab Specialists (ORS) was pleased to be participants at this year's WorkSTEPS® Provider Symposium held in Las Vegas. Rex and Rachel gained knowledge to improve the quality and safety of WorkSTEPS® testing while maintaining compliance with the License agreement regarding training/education. They had the pleasure to build valuable relationships by networking with other providers and gain confidence in assisting employers in implementing testing policies. For more information regarding WorkSTEPS® post-offer employment screenings please contact Rex Brown or Rachel Viel at (815)227-1700.
Colleen Nelson, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Colleen Nelson attends
Myofascial Release
Dixon, IL - April 2010 - Physical Therapist, Colleen Nelson of Orthopedic RehabSpecialists, Dixon IL attended the Myofascial Release workshop. Myofascial is a safe and effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Myofascial Release techniques and movement therapy promote independence through education in proper body mechanics and movement, self treatment instructions, enhancement of strength, improved flexibility, and postural and movement awareness. To learn more call Colleen at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists of Dixon at 815-284-1700.
Mark Skaggs, PT, CSCS
Aaron Engel MS, ATC
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Mark Skaggs and Aaron Engel attend the 33rd University of Wisconsin Sports Medicine Symposium
Rockford, IL - April 2010 - Physical Therapist Mark Skaggs and Athletic Trainer, Aaron Engel of Orthopedic RehabSpecialists, Rockford IL attended the 33rd University of Wisconsin Sports Medicine Symposium. Upon the completion of the symposium Mark and Aaron can identify interventions that optimize bone health by recognizing negative and positive factors that impact bone health across its lifespan. Applying newly learned clinical skills offer an edge on positive healthcare for your specialized needs. Contact Mark or Aaron today at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists(815) 227-1700.
Aaron Engel MS, ATC
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Aaron Engel attended the 22nd Annual Medical College of Wisconsin Sports Medicine Symposium
Rockford, IL - March 2010 - Athletic Trainer, Aaron Engel of Orthopedic RehabSpecialists, Rockford IL attended the 22nd Medical College of Wisconsin Sports Medicine Symposium. Aaron increased his familiarity with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of joint pain, ligament injuries and concussions for the young athlete. For more information contact Orthopedic Rehab Specialists today at (815)-227-1700.
Jenna Villafuerte, PTA |
 Alane Curry, PT, MPT |
Lindsey Nauman |
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Jenna Villafuerte, Alane Curry & Lindsey Nauman attended Advanced Cancer Rehabilitation Course!
Rockford, IL - March 2010 - Physical Therapist Assistant Jenna Villafuerte and Physical Therapists Alane Curry and Lindsey Nauman of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended Advanced Cancer Rehabilitation Course. Topics included lymphedema risk reduction, treatment outcomes, updates in medical and radiation oncology, bone metastasis and patient centered care. Labs were centered around actual cancer patients and survivors. Practicing manual techniques for radiation fibrosis, cording, thoracotomy, soft tissue dysfunctions and much more. For more details contact Jenna Villafuerte, Alane Curry or Lindsey Nauman at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists 815-227-1700.
Mark Skaggs, PT, CSCS
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Mark Skaggs attended the 25th Annual Hawkeye Sports Medicine Symposium
Rockford, IL - December 2009 - Physical Therapist Mark Skaggs attended the 25th annual Hawkeye Sports Medicine Symposium. Prevention strategies and treatment for the competitive athlete is changing with up to date knowledge about diagnosis, management and prevention of a variety of injuries commonly incurred in sports participation. Mark will address your complications with the highest quality of care, call Mark of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists 815-227-1700 today.
Alane Curry, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Alane Curry attended Advanced Evaluation and Treatment for the Functional Rehabilitation of the Foot and Ankle
Rockford, IL - December 2009 - Physical Therapist, Alane Curry of Orthopedic RehabSpecialists, Rockford IL attended Advanced Evaluation and Treatment for the functional Rehabilitation of the Foot and Ankle. Upon completion of this course Alane is confident in recognizing common clinical entitles of the foot and ankle through differential diagnostic processes. Being able to identify normal and abnormal accessory motion of ankle, rearfoot and forefoot along with determining what appropriate mobilization techniques to enhance joint range of motion. Call Alane today for your lower extremity functional evaluation at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists (815) 227-1700.
Mark Skaggs, PT, CSCS
Michael Wood, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Mark Skaggs & Michael Wood attended the 19th edition of Neurologic Orthopedic Institute's classic lecture and practical course Mobilization of the Nervous System
Rockford, IL - November 2009 - Physical Therapists Mark Skaggs and Michael "Woody" Wood of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended Mobilization of the Nervous System. Mark and Michael gained relevant understanding to the physical health issues of the entire nervous system. This course offered advanced manual assessment and management options from evidence based medicine at its best. This course covered some of the common syndromes like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, nerve root disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome and spinal pain. Innovative tools involve conservative decompression of nerves, various neural mobilizing techniques and the new techniques which emerge from neurodynamics and pain sciences. To find out more contact Mark Skaggs or Michael Wood with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Drew Fitzanko, PT, CWT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Drew Fitzanko attended Chain Reaction Transformation
Rockford, IL - November 2009 - Physical Therapist Drew Fitzanko attended a three day seminar to improve upon the understanding and the application of using Applied Functional Science for rehabilitation, injury prevention, sports training, and conditioning. Emphasis was based on developing evaluation skills and functional treatment techniques to enhance the lives of others. Call Drew today for your injury prevention needs at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Byron (815) 234-5553.
Scott Cole, MS, ATC, CSCS
Athletic Trainer Scott Cole honored as Employee of the Month
Winnebago CUSD #323 honored Athletic Trainer Scott Cole as the Employee of the Month. Mary Kate Skaggs nominated Cole for always going above and beyond.
Winnebago CUSD #323 has a contractual agreement with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists for athletic training services. Cole is assigned to cover Winnebago sports.
In her nomination, Skaggs said, "he routinely goes above and beyond his responsibilities in taking care of our students athletes. He will come in early in the mornings to be at volleyball practice or to treat injured football players or cross country runners so they don't have to miss class."
He has also welcomed students in shadowing him as athletic trainer for the Rockford RiverHawks.
As Employee of the Month, the winners will receive a $50 cash award, a gift certificate to Anna's Pizza and Pasta, and a premium parking space. The winners will also be featured in district publications and on the website.
To nominate a Winnebago CUSD #323 employee for this honor, forms can be obtained from any school office or online at www.winnebagoschools.org.
Kelly Hix, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Kelly Hix was able to attend Behavioral and Rehabilitation Treatment of Bowel Disorders
Rockford, IL - October 2009 - Physical Therapist Kelly Hix of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists attended Behavioral and Rehabilitation Treatment of Bowel Disorders. This two day course studied how to recognize fecal incontinence, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, irritable bowel disorder, painful bowel conditions along with many other disorders of the bowel function. Kelly also learned several techniques such as pelvic floor muscle retraining to increase tone, coordination, relaxation and elongation, bowel management strategies, habit training and dietary factors which all play a successful part in your overall rehabilitation treatment plan. If you are looking for support in the rehabilitation process and to better manage your stools please call Kelly Hix at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Rachel Viel, PT, MS, CWCE
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Rachel Viel recertified as a Work Capacity Evaluator
Rockford, IL - September 2009 - Physical Therapist Rachel Viel is pleased to announce she has successfully met all the requirements in recertification as a Work Capacity Evaluator (CWCE). Rachel has demonstrated a level of proficiency that warrants recognition. This recertification makes a statement about her strong commitment to the industry workplace as evidenced by her investment of time and effort as well as her performance. To find out more regarding Rachel's excellent evaluator abilities call Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Lindsey Nauman
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Lindsey Nauman Attended the Assessment & Motor Control Retraining of the Integrated Local Cylinder
Rockford, IL - September 2009 - Physical Therapist Lindsey Nauman attended the Assessment & Motor Control retraining of the Integrated Local Cylinder. Lindsey reviewed the functional anatomy of the lumbar local muscle system and motor control of the trunk stability based on the concept of the local muscles creating a dynamic core cylinder. The muscles which control the cylinder (inner core) include; Transversus Abdominis, Segmental Lumbar Multifidus, Posterior Fasciculus Psoas Major, Pelvic Floor and your Respiratory Diaphragm. If anyone of these muscles becomes dysfunctional, the stability of the lumbo-pelvic core cylinder will be compromised. If you need to attain more information on functional anatomy of the lumbar core cylinder contact Lindsey at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Jenna Villafuerte, PTA
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Jenna Villafuerte attended Eval & Treat of the Knee &/or Shoulder
Rockford, IL - September 2009 - Physical Therapist Assistant, Jenna Villafuerte of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended Eval & Treat of the Knee &/or Shoulder, The course provided Jenna with pertinent information regarding the rehabilitation of these pathologies. Through lecture presentations, hands-on laboratory sessions, open discussions and problem solving of patient case studies, Jenna was able to master new and effective evaluation and treatment techniques based on current scientific evidence. For more information on obtaining your rehabilitation with Jenna call Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Colleen Nelson, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Colleen Nelson attended Eval & Treat of the Knee &/or Shoulder
Dixon, IL - September 2009 - Physical Therapist, Colleen Nelson of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Dixon IL attended Eval & Treat of the Knee &/or Shoulder, The course provided Colleen with pertinent information regarding the rehabilitation of these pathologies. Through lecture presentations, hands-on laboratory sessions, open discussions and problem solving of patient case studies, Colleen was able to master new and effective evaluation and treatment techniques based on current scientific evidence. For more information on obtaining your rehabilitation with Colleen call Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 284-1700.
Leah Crull, OTR/L CHT
Karen Weber, OTR/L CHT
Leah Crull & Karen Weber with Certified Hand Center Speak at Arthritis Foundation's Lunch and Learn Program
Rockford, IL - August 2009 - Leah Crull & Karen Weber Certified Hand Therapists and Occupational Therapists were guest speakers at the Rockford Public Library (East Branch) on behalf of the Heartland Region’s Arthritis Foundation. Leah and Karen spoke about Hints, Tips and Gadgets for joint preservation, energy conservation and use of adaptive equipment. They spoke to a group of Arthritis sufferers about how Arthritis affects the joints, joint preservation (preventing further joint destruction), energy conservation (avoiding joint fatigue) and adaptive equipment and resources that are available. There was a demonstration of numerous adaptive equipment items and a chance for attendees to try them. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Certified Hand Center call Leah or Karen at (815) 226-8780, Rockford or (815) 234-5553, Byron location.
Alane Curry, PT, MPT
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Alane Curry attended Therapy to a Tee: Evaluating Biomechanics, Physiology and Rehabilitation of the Golfer
Rockford, IL - June 2009 - Physical Therapist, Alane Curry of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended Therapy to a Tee; Evaluating Biomechanics, Physiology and Rehabilitation of the Golfer. Program was a comprehensive overview of the biomechanics, proven concepts and techniques in the evaluation, design and effective delivery of customized golf exercise programs. This seminar was an essential course for all Alane's patients who desire to return to golf after rehabilitation from injury. For more information on obtaining your therapy to a tee contact Alane with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists at (815) 227-1700.
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Mark Skaggs attended the 32nd Annual UW-Madison Sports Medicine Symposium
Mark Skaggs, PT, CSCS
Rockford, IL - Mark Skaggs, Physical Therapist/Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists was fortunate to be a participant at this year's UW-Madison Sports Medicine Symposium. This course was designed to provide the latest information regarding the prevention, recognition and treatment of athletic injuries. Its content was based on comments from past participants as well as faculty & clinical staff's perception of current trends and issues in sports medicine. Mark focuses on practical and clinical relevant information for use in his daily practice. If you are interested in learning more about treatment services offered by Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, please contact us at (815) 227-1700.
Rachel Viel, PT, MS, CWCE
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Rachel Viel attended the 16th Annual WorkSTEPS Provider Symposium
Rockford, IL - May 2009 - Physical Therapist, Rachel Viel of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended the 16th Annual WorkSTEPS Provider Symposium held in Austin, TX. Rachel attended courses in managing injured and ill workers under the new ADA law along with learning what qualifies a practice as an evidence based best medical practice in functional testing (EEPB), medical management strategies that will reduce work related claims costs, the importance of utilizing a testing program to control costs from pre-injury through case closure and wounded soldiers returning to employment. To find out if your Disability Management Program is ready contact Rachel with Orthopedic Rehab Specialists of Rockford at (815) 227-1700.
Leah Crull, OTR/L CHT
Karen Weber, OTR/L CHT
Leah Crull & Karen Weber with Certified Hand Center of Rockford/Byron attended Wisconsin Hand Experience 2009
Rockford, IL - Leah Crull & Karen Weber Certified Hand Therapists in Occupational Therapy, attended the 2009 WISCONSIN HAND EXPERIENCE conference at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. This year's conference, The Art of Upper Extremity Arthroplasty: Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, and Hand: Procedures, Expectations and Rehabilitation. Focusing on upper extremity arthroplasty procedures. Current surgery approaches for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, thumb and finger joints were covered. Leah & Karen's understanding of arthroplasty procedures were enhanced by a presentation covering the most recent research. A highlight of the conference was a cadaver demonstration of joint replacement and soft tissue reconstruction procedures of the digits. Other topics included splinting for arthroplasty of the hand, cadaver dissection, rehabilitation of the throwing athlete, CPM application post arthroplasty, Arthristis, and CRPS. To learn more or to schedule an appointment for patients suffering traumatic or work related injuries to the hand, wrist, elbow or shoulder, call Certified Hand Center of Rockford at (815) 226-8780.
Lindsey Nauman
Alane Curry
Therapists Lindsey Nauman and Alane Curry participated in the Rockford Public Schools First Annual Educational Health Fair for the Employees of the Rockford Public Schools and their families on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 9AM-Noon at Colonial Village, Rockford, IL. Lindsey and Alane were on hand to answer health questions and talk with attendees about services available at Orthopedic Rehab Specialists. ORS provided a Free door prize basket and gave away hot/cold packs to all who visited their Exhibit.
Physical Therapist, Alane Curry of Orthopedic Rehab Specialists, Rockford IL attended Strength Training and Exercise for the Aging Spine: Considerations for Osteoporosis and Other Degenerative Conditions. Download the press release