Owner, Faust Physical Therapy Center
“When I was 15 years old, I broke my ankle while playing baseball and had to undergo surgery. After experiencing the many benefits of postsurgical rehabilitation firsthand, I knew that I wanted to become a physical therapist. I went on to earn my undergraduate degree in health and physical education and my master’s degree in physical therapy.
Today, I offer you over 20 years of clinical experience along with today’s most advanced therapies to relieve your pain or to help you heal from injury or surgery. I find it personally and professionally rewarding to be able to help improve a patient’s function and overall quality of life with gentle, hands-on methods.
What’s more, I believe that patient-centered care can make all the difference in the world. I will take the time to listen to your concerns, discuss your condition, and explain your treatment options. I will also encourage you to take an active role in your recovery, because this can help expedite the healing process.”
Education and Experience
Master’s Degree: Physical Therapy, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, PA
Bachelor’s Degree: Health and Physical Education, Alabama Christian College, Montgomery, AL
Member: Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association
Former Clinical Instructor: School of Physical Therapy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Former Physical Therapist Consultant:
- Consulting Physical Therapist, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Physical Therapist/Personal Trainer, Cincinnati Reds
- Sports Physical Therapist, Raleigh Wings professional women’s soccer team, Raleigh Flyers men’s professional soccer team
After earning a bachelor of science in biology from West Chester University in 2008, Melissa obtained her associate of applied science as a physical therapists assistant from Penn State Hazelton in 2010. She has been employed with Faust Physical Therapy since August 2010.
Melissa is licensed by the state of Pennsylvania to practice as a physical therapist assistant without the direct supervision of a physical therapist. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, being creative, working on crafts, and rooting for the Phillies.
Expertise and Focus
- Geriatrics/elder care: Balance dysfunction, general weakness, low back pain, etc.
- Pediatrics: Developmental issues, orthopedic concerns, general conditioning
Donald received his associate of applied science as a physical therapist assistant from Lehigh Carbon Community College. A member of the team at Faust Physical Therapy since May 2011, Donald has an indirect supervision PTA license.
Donald is a competitive bowler at Strike Zone Alleys, where he is a board member and web designer for Schuylkill United States Bowling Congress. Donald also enjoys running and he runs daily for a young girl with Cerebral palsy, Elle (link to website below), and spending time with family.
WEBSITE: DON RUNS FOR ELLE
Expertise and Focus
- Shoulder pathologies: Impingement, arthritis, rotator cuff repair, labral tears, instability, etc.
- Joint replacement surgery: Knee, hip, shoulder, etc.
Matt is a 2008 graduate of West Chester University, where he obtained a music education degree and minored in vocal techniques and piano. In 2013, he received his associate of applied science as a physical therapist assistant from Penn State Hazelton, graduating with distinction. In addition to coursework, he participated in research involving spinal cord injuries.
Since 2014, Matt has been involved with the non-profit group Conquer the Beast. Save a Zebra, which benefits the Ehlers-Danlos National Foundation to raise awareness for those who suffer with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a group of rare genetic connective tissue disorders.
Expertise and Focus
- Athletic performance: Strength and conditioning, agility, sports injuries
- Biomechanics/kinematics: Body movement, posture and gait, imbalances
