Rachel Lipka
PT, DPT
Lapeer

My first introduction to physical therapy was back in 2008 when I suffered an ankle injury from playing soccer. The therapist I worked with was really passionate and was able to explain things on a level, that my 12-year-old self was able to understand. After going through physical therapy, I was pretty convinced that physical therapy was the career path for me. What really helped to solidify my love for physical therapy and helping people reach their goals, was in 2013 when my grandfather had a total knee replacement. My grandfather knew that I wanted to become a physical therapist, so whenever he had to go for physical therapy, he always made sure I was there with him so I could see what he was going through and to make sure I could help him complete his home exercise program. I completed my undergraduate degree in 2019 at Oakland University and went to Central Michigan University to complete my doctorate degree in physical therapy in 2022. While at Central, 5 classmates and I ran a virtual Parkinson’s exercise class under the supervision of one of our professors. The professor that oversaw the class was PWR!Move certified, and through her, I was able to learn, use, and become certified in PWR!Moves. In my free time, I enjoy baking, reading, knitting, and spending time with family, friends, and my dog.