Meet Your Physio

Cheryl Pfruender, PT, DPT, MTC

Clinic Manager at BreakThrough's Winston Salem clinic

Cheryl Pfuender, the Clinic Manager at BreakThrough's Winston-Salem clinic, is a native of Kannapolis, NC. In 2005, she had completed her education, earning a Doctorate of Physical Therapy as well as a Manual Therapy Certificate from St Augustine University in Florida. She has attended continuing education courses in Orthotics, treatment of Vestibular BPPV (positional vertigo), and spine disorders. Cheryl is also a certified ASTYM provider.

Cheryl is an avid runner and a very successful competitor at the 5K level. Cheryl also enjoys recreational biking and is a huge dog lover, caring for 3 of her own. Cheryl's favorite TV show is Bones. Thank goodness for the invention of the DVR, as this allows Cheryl to catch all those re-runs she misses during the day while working!

Jolene Faught, PT, MPT

Women's Health Physical Therapist

Jolene Faught, PT, MPT graduated from Eastern Washington University's Master of Physical Therapy program in 1999. Since that time Jolene has worked to develop her manual therapy skills and pursue extensive training and education in the areas of Women's Health Physical Therapy and Pelvic Rehab.

With a background in orthopedic, sports medicine and manual physical therapy, Jolene is able to effectively treat athletes, elderly and pregnant/post partum populations with ease. The special treatments within the Women's Health Physical Therapy realm enable her to treat women with pelvic pain, incontinence, chronic low back pain, SI joint/hip dysfunction and pregnancy/post partum related low back and pelvic dysfunctions.

Due to her belief in grass roots education, Jolene has provided in-services and spoken to physicians, hospital based nursing staff, other physical therapists, community groups and individuals undergoing abdominal and/or pelvic surgery. Her presentation, "What Every Woman Should Know" is an educational program for women of all ages explaining normal bladder/ bowel health, sexual function, posture and effects of pregnancy and labor as related to a woman's body.

As the wife of a Marine Jolene has had opportunities to develop Women's Health and Pelvic Rehab programs in Oregon, California and Virginia. Jolene is thrilled to have the opportunity to raise two young boys in North Carolina and develop this much needed program for women along the Crystal Coast. She is an outdoor enthusiast with a passion for running, skiing, boating, and most recently yoga. Jolene is looking forward to providing exceptional care for women's sensitive issues.

Please call Jolene if you have questions about women's health or the new program she is developing at BreakThrough Physical Therapy in Morehead City, (p) 252-247-2738 and (f) 252-240-3882.

Matt Ware, PT, MPT, Cert. MDT

Clinic Manager at Morehead City

Matt earned his entry-level Master's degree in Physical Therapy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998. He worked at Carteret General Hospital beginning in 1999, and then moved back to the mountains near his alma mater, Appalachian State University in Boone, NC in 2001. There he worked in an outpatient hospital-based Wellness Center treating primarily orthopaedic conditions until January of 2011. He then joined BreakThrough Physical Therapy as Clinic Director in Morehead City in 2011.

Matt has extensively studied treatment of the spine, and completed a credentialing program with the McKenzie Institute in 2004. Since 2004, he has been studying with faculty from Washington University in St. Louis on evaluation and treatment of movement impairment syndromes. Matt will be beginning a clinical residency in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy through Evidence in Motion in June of 2011.

Matt is a second time transplant to the southern Outer Banks, and is very excited to be back. He has moved to Morehead with his family, Amy and Emma. Matt is an avid cyclist, enjoys kayaking, and loves the opportunity to learn to fish. If you have any tips, please share with him to prevent public ridicule either at the ramp or in the water!

Bob Madtes, PT

Bob earned his Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh in 1974 and has 36 years of experience in outpatient orthopedic/sports rehab clinics. Three of his 36 years of experience were in Florida and the remaining 33 years in North Carolina. Bob decided to pursue a career in physical therapy because he felt called to help and assist others. His favorite area to treat is the shoulder.

He is the previous co-owner of Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab Clinic and the new Clinic Director for BreakThrough Physical Therapy at North Church Street location. New clinic name...same old Bob! Bob strongly believes in and shares a commitment to the company vision of "Newest Research, Fewest Visits, Best Results."

Bob celebrated 28 years of marriage in June 2010 and has two daughters, 22 and 19 years of age. He enjoys mountain bike riding and most types of exercise as well as traveling in his time away from the clinic.

Lucas Simoes, PT, MS

Lucas arrived in the United States in 2005, seeking to continue his training in orthopedics after having earning his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and residency in orthopedic and sports physical therapy in at the Catholic University of Campinas Brazil, where he is from. In Brazil, Lucas gained extensive experience in management of orthopedic conditions for all ages as well as professional athletes.

After arriving in the United States, Lucas earned his Master of Sciences degree in musculoskeletal rehabilitation through the University of Pittsburgh. At the university, he was a Graduate Student Researcher participating as trial coordinator of a large knee osteoarthritis study and participating in teaching activities by request. Since graduation Lucas has enhanced his skills with spinal manipulation through additional postgraduate training and is currently pursuing certification in myofascial trigger point dry needling. These techniques show excellent efficacy in management of specific orthopaedic injuries from tendonosis to spinal pain. Lucas is also a Fellow-in-training for the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical therapists, an organization recognized by its excellence in education and quality care for people in musculoskeletal dysfunction and injury.

When not working, Lucas loves to spend time with his wife and two daughters, playing soccer, volleyball and cooking.

Adam Autry, PT, DPT

Adam is a native of Dunn, NC and 2010 graduate of Elon University's Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. He received his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from Campbell University in 2007. He is currently a member of the Orthopaedic section of the American Physical Therapy Association.

To further his orthopaedic training, Adam completed the Evidence in Motion Orthopaedic Residency program in early 2013 and is pursuing certification as an Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist. Adam is also currently working toward certification in myofascial trigger point dry needling, also known as intramuscular manual therapy. His professional interests include manual therapy and sports related injuries.

Adam and his colleagues presented a research study investigating the outcomes of a chronic knee osteoarthritis treatment program utilizing manual therapy and exercise at the 2011 National American Physical Therapy Association conference.

Adam and his wife enjoy outdoor activities including camping, hiking and spending time at the beach. Other interests include playing guitar at his church, exercise, and time with his family. He and his wife are expecting their first child late in 2013.

Alex Koszalinski PT, DPT, OCS, MTC, CMTPT, FAAOMPT

Clinic Manager at Fayetteville

Alex earned his Master's degree in Physical Therapy at Grand Valley State University in 1996 and transitional doctorate in physical therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2003. In 2002 he completed the Manual Therapy Certification program from the University of St. Augustine and in 2005 he received board certification from the American Physical Therapy Association as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He served as a primary faculty member for 5 years in the Division of Physical Therapy at Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio.

Alex completed a Fellowship in Manual Therapy at Regis University in 2007 and the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists has designated him a Fellow in manual therapy. He was also certified in 2011 for myofascial trigger point dry needling, also known as intramuscular manual therapy. Alex is currently in the dissertation phase of his PhD in Physical Therapy at NOVA Southeastern University. His dissertation will involve research on the effect of intramuscular manual therapy for myofascial trigger points on plantar heel pain.

Alex was born and raised in Michigan and began his career in Ohio. He moved south again in 2007 and now calls North Carolina home with his wife Julie and son Tyler. While most of his spare time is spent with his family, he also enjoys watching sports of all kinds.

Corey Smith, PT, DPT

Clinic Manager Fayetteville North

Corey received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT), from Upstate Medical University in 2010. Prior to earning his DPT, he received a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Management from LeMoyne College. Following employment with BreakThrough for two years, Corey became a clinic manager in September of 2012.

Corey relocated to North Carolina from Syracuse, NY in 2010. He decided to further his orthopedic specialization by enrolling in Evidence In Motion's Orthopedic Residency program. Corey completed the residency in July of 2012. He is using this coursework as a springboard to pursue the American Physical Therapy Association's board certification in orthopedics. Less than 5% of physical therapists in the country have completed the rigors of this education process.

Corey has recently become engaged to his girlfriend who is also physical therapist in the field of pediatrics. They plan to be married in June of 2014. Outside of work, he and his fiancé love traveling to North Carolina's mountains and beaches. Corey also enjoys watching and playing sports, as he was a four-year scholarship athlete for the LeMoyne College Division II basketball team.

Mark Watson, MPT, MBA, OCS
Chief Operating Officer and Clinic Manager

Mark Watson, MPT, MBA, OCS is the Chief Operating Officer for the BreakThrough Physical Therapy family of clinics as well as the clinic manager for our Greensboro clinics.

Mark is a seasoned orthopedic physical therapist and healthcare administrator with background in patient care and rehabilitation management. Mark's role with BreakThrough grew out of his consulting work after more than a decade of progressive success in growth and management of rehabilitation businesses.

Mark earned his Master of Physical Therapy degree from Duquesne University and his MBA in Health Systems Administration from Waynesburg University. Mark Watson is an Orthopedic Certified Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties and also serves as adjunct faculty in Duquesne University's Rangos School of Health Sciences. Personally, Mark enjoys his family, travel, fitness, and playing the bass guitar!

Bethany Harry, PT

Bethany Harry received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Marquette University in 2002 and 20004 respectively. While at Marquette University, Bethany had great success outside the classroom as well as a four-year, Division One letter winner in cross country and track and field.

Bethany has been a practicing physical therapist in Winston Salem for more than 8 years. Her expertise includes pediatric physical therapy, acute care, home health, outpatient orthopedics, and, as an athlete herself, she has a special interest in athletic injury prevention and treatment for athletes of any age or ability. In 2009, Bethany further expanded her expertise by earning both a state and national license in therapeutic message.

In her spare time, Bethany loves swimming, biking and just about any activity that involves being outdoors.

Drew Schlabach, PT, DPT

Drew Schlabach graduated from Walsh University in Canton, Ohio in 2011, earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy. Prior to his doctoral degree he received his Bachelor of Science in 2007 from Abilene Christian University. He is currently in the Evidence In Motion orthopedic residency program and is a member of the Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association. Drew has a special interest in manual therapy for movement disorders relating to the spine and extremities.

When not working, Drew enjoys spending time with his wife, two-year-old daughter and yellow lab. Drew and his wife are expecting their second baby in November. He is an avid fantasy baseball and football fan and can often be found doing research on players and making changes to his lineup on weekends. He also enjoys cooking, grilling, playing baseball, and golf.

Melissa Hale
Women's Health, MPT

Melissa graduated from The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill in 1999 with a Masters degree in Physical Therapy (and has been a HUGE Tar heel fan ever since!) She has worked as an outpatient orthopedic physical therapist for more than 13 years. Melissa has furthered her education through the well-respected McKenzie courses. The McKenzie Method is a philosophy of active patient involvement and education for back, neck, and extremity problems that incorporates safe and reliable means to accurately reach a diagnosis and design the appropriate treatment plan. Recently, Melissa has further expanded her expertise into women's health by earning the pelvic floor function, dysfunction, and treatment certification through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.

In her free time she enjoys most outdoor activities, sports, and reading, as well as spending time with family and friends. Melissa has 9-year-old twins that keep her busy and she is also a twin herself. She is a Gemini, which may explain why she tends to do things in twos...two kids, two cats, two dogs, (but she drew the line at one wonderful husband!).

Danielle Laygo
PT, DPT

Danielle Laygo earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2011. Prior to her graduate education, Danielle spent her undergraduate years at University of Maryland Baltimore County. In 2007, she graduated from UMBC with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She is very excited to begin the Evidence In Motion orthopedic residency program in June, and is a member of the Orthopedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association.

Danielle especially enjoys working with the geriatric population. She is experienced in the skilled nursing setting, which promotes functional return of movement and allows patients to improve their quality of life by gaining back their independence. She is interested in furthering her manual skills in outpatient therapy, and aims to obtain her Orthopedic Clinical Specialist certification after completing the residency.

Danielle loves to spend time with her family (especially her two sisters and brothers-in-law), hang out with friends, and joke around with her husband. In her spare time, she also loves to paint murals, cook (which her husband greatly appreciates), take walks, bike ride, dance, swim, take beach trips, and do anything outside when the weather is nice!

Kristen Wulfing
PT, DPT

Kristen is a 2012 graduate from the Springfield College Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program in Springfield Massachusetts. While attending Springfield College, she attended two National Student Conclaves for physical therapy students hosted by the American Physical Therapy Association. Her final research at Springfield College evaluated the use of dynamic splinting to reduce and improve knee flexion and extension contractures post-total knee replacement in patients with diabetes. Kristen's clinical affiliations prior to graduation included rotations at Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital in Hartford, CT, Kindred Parkview Hospital in Springfield, MA, and Physical Therapy Plus in South Windsor, CT.

Kristen is originally from Tolland, Connecticut. While in Connecticut, she was a physical therapist at the University of Connecticut Nayden Rehabilitation Clinic. At Nayden Rehabilitation, she treated patients with neurological disorders including stroke and Parkinson's disease, patients with complex wounds, and patients with sports and/or orthopedic injuries. She has a strong interest in manual therapy and is planning to participate in continuing education opportunities including a residency program.

Outside of work, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband, family and friends. She travels often and has visited several countries including Spain, France, Ireland, England, and Portugal. She was an active member of her church in New England and now is involved with her church in Fayetteville. She also likes to read, go to the gym, run, and rock climb.