Our newest addition to our Back in Motion Gorham team is Catherine “Cat” Rowan.

She is an experienced PT who has been working in Arlington, VA, just outside Washington D.C., for the past four years. She graduated in 2011 from the University at Buffalo, SUNY with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. She also has her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Exercise Science from UB. Catherine is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with advanced clinical knowledge and skills in orthopedic physical therapy. She is a self-proclaimed “Army Brat” and grew up in various parts of the US and Europe; she recently moved to Maine with her fiancé. She is excited to be here and is ready to help you wrap up summer to get ready for the fall.

Q: Locally we have students returning to school with sports seasons right around the corner. Do you have advice for them; either starting a new season or transitioning into the next for help with injuries or prevention of injuries?

As the fall sports season begins you can expect to have an increase in activity level. Whether it is football, cross country, soccer, or field hockey, an increase in activity level could lead to injury, especially if you did not maintain any fitness level over the summer. The most important thing is to get the injury addressed as soon as possible. A little, nagging ache that only occurs after a workout could lead to persistent, severe pain which can sideline you. A physical therapist can evaluate your body mechanics, flexibility, and strength, as well as address a deficit which could be causing the pain as soon as possible to keep you on the field or track.

Q: Working with patients of all ages and different activity levels, what can they expect from you as a physical therapist?

As a physical therapist, my goal is to get my patients back to their prior level of function which includes sports. This applies for anyone from seasoned marathon runners to youth football players. A majority of sports involve running which means different types of athletes can suffer from similar lower body injuries. I can help with any issue that can come up as your intensity increases, as well as answer questions you may have to help get you back in action.

Q: Can you help more than just our local athletes?

Yes, I can help everyone, not just athletes. As an Orthopedic Certified Specialist, I have advance clinical knowledge in treating all orthopedic problems and I have experience treating a wide array of injuries.

Q: I know you have recently relocated to Maine. Have you had a chance to enjoy any of this good weather?

I have been here for just over a month and I have actually done a ton of things. My second weekend here my fiancé and I went camping in Acadia National Park and hiked Cadillac Mountain. We also did some off-roading at Sebec Lake and I have thoroughly enjoyed the easy access to the many beaches close by.

To book your free pain consultation with Cat at our Gorham clinic call (207) 839-5860.