Our Award Winning Team in Carpentersville

Physical Therapist
PT, DPT

Born and raised in the Philippines; graduated with Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy at the Far Eastern University (Philippines), earned a degree in Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina: worked in various settings including Skilled Nursing Facilities, Home Health Care Services, Inpatient Rehabilitation, Acute inpatient; school based physical therapy, outpatient physical therapy.

As a physical therapist, one of the biggest challenges patients often face is chronic pain. Many individuals live with persistent pain from conditions like arthritis, injuries, or post-surgery recovery, and this pain can limit their mobility, independence, and quality of life. While physical therapy can significantly reduce pain, many patients struggle with the psychological and emotional toll it takes as well—such as anxiety, frustration, and feelings of helplessness. One thing I’d want to focus on fixing is improving patient education and communication about pain management. Helping patients better understand their condition, the role of physical therapy in healing, and how to self-manage their pain can empower them and reduce their dependence on medications. Additionally, I would aim to use a combination of manual therapy, exercise, and patient-centered techniques that both address physical dysfunction and foster a more positive mindset toward healing.

As a physical therapist I have a variety of experiences in rehabilitation for orthopedic post-surgery recovery, muscle imbalances, and mobility issues, addressing a range of complex and interrelated concerns that impact patients’ ability to return to normal function and maintain an active lifestyle.

“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle” -Saint Francis of Assisi

Orthopedic Post-Op Rehabilitation:

• Total joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
• Fractures and bone repair surgeries
• Ligament repairs (ACL, MCL, etc.)
• Rotator cuff repairs
• Spinal surgery (discectomy, laminectomy)

Muscle Imbalances:

• Postural imbalances (forward head posture, rounded shoulders)
• Weak core muscles, leading to back pain
• Overactive hip flexors, weak glutes
• Tight hamstrings, weak quads (especially in athletes)
• Scapular dyskinesis (weakness or dysfunction of shoulder muscles)

Sports-Related Injuries:

• Sprains and strains (e.g., ankle sprains, hamstring strains)
• Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles tendonitis, patellar tendonitis)
• Ligament injuries (e.g., ACL, MCL)
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Overuse injuries (e.g., tennis elbow, runner’s knee)
• Stress fractures or other bone-related injuries

I deeply appreciate working in a patient centered environment where each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s specific needs, goals, and abilities. I enjoy having one-on-one sessions with my patients because it allows me to build a strong therapeutic relationship and trust. This individualized time together enables me to better understand their concerns, fears, and motivations, which fosters a sense of comfort and partnership in the rehabilitation process. It’s also easier to provide direct feedback, ensure proper technique, and offer encouragement, which leads to better outcomes and a higher level of patient satisfaction.

What is Marie Reading, Watching, or Listening To?

• Lalaland
• Gilmore Girls

Podcast:

• Abiding Together

When I’m not working, I enjoy Watching shows on Netflix, listening to podcasts, running.