Southwell Outpatient Therapy Services in Tifton has recently added neurologic physical therapy (PT) to its array of rehabilitative services. Kate Vickers, PT, DPT provides specialized PT for conditions caused by nervous system diseases or injuries. The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
Vickers earned an undergraduate degree in exercise and sports science from the University of Georgia and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Augusta University. She followed with advanced PT training in neurological disorders at TIRR Memorial Hermann Outpatient Rehabilitation in Houston and Shepherd Center Inpatient Rehabilitation in Atlanta.
“Neurologic PT is a specialized branch of physical therapy focused on rehabilitating the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves to improve mobility, balance, endurance, and daily function,” said Vickers. “It addresses a wide range of impairments like muscle weakness, poor coordination, spasticity, sensory changes, and loss of function that impact safety as well as independence resulting from neurological disorders and injuries.”
Vickers said she works closely with orthopedists, neurologists, and other physicians to evaluate and treat stroke and incidents involving the brain and blood vessels; spinal cord injury; traumatic and acquired brain injuries; balance, dizziness, and other vestibular disorders; tumors affecting the nervous system; Parkinson’s disease; multiple sclerosis; Guillain-Barré and chronic inflammatory neuropathy; and, movement and coordination disorders.
Drew Dorminey, Southwell’s Director of the Orthopedic Service Line, said Kate’s unique focus is a complement to Southwell Outpatient Therapy Services.
“We are excited to have Kate on our team,” said Dorminey. “In addition to general physical, occupational, and speech therapy services, we are proud to offer specialized care like neurologic PT with Kate. Another example of specialized PT is pelvic floor physical therapy for women, which we introduced in 2022. We continue to grow so people can have advanced rehabilitative care close to home, work, and family.”
Dorminey said if a person notices a change in his/her mobility or receives a neurologic diagnosis, Kate can be helpful to assist with improving mobility and prevention of further loss. Some conditions also require regular tune-ups done annually or when changes are noticed.
“A referral is required for Kate’s services, so we encourage patients to talk to their physician or advanced practice provider,” said Dorminey.
Southwell Outpatient Therapy Services is in Tifton at 2227 U.S. Highway 41, 3rd Floor. For more information, visit www.MySouthwell.com or call 229-353-6188.
“It’s an honor to assist local residents with neurologic conditions and injuries to optimize their health and wellbeing,” said Vickers.