AIR Physical Therapy and Fitness

Bios

• Ryan Beer

  DPT, Cert. MDT

  Ryan is the Director of Physical Therapy and has been a part of the AIR Physical Therapy team since 2011. A New Brighton native, Ryan received both his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Degree with a certificate in Pathokinesiology from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Beer is certified in the McKenzie method of treatment (MDT), a globally renowned style of therapy particularly known for treatment of the spine. The McKenzie method http://www.mckenzieinstituteusa.org/method-patients.cfm is the most recognized and evidence based approach to physical therapy assessment and treatment. The assessment process is intended for all musculoskeletal issues, including the back, neck and extremities. It centers on patient education and self-care that empowers the patient to self-treat and prevent reoccurrences. The McKenzie approach enables Dr. Beer to prescribe the most effective home exercises to eliminate pain and restore function in a cost and time effective manner. In addition to the McKenzie method, Ryan has received specialized training in dizziness and vestibular disorders, and associated rehabilitation techniques. He brings to the position an extensive background in rehabilitative services obtained through his related work experiences at regional hospitals. Ryan is also a licensed Direct Access Physical Therapist with the ability to treat patients without a physician’s referral.

• Heather Palmer

  MPT, Cert ART

  Heather Palmer, MPT, brings 20+ years of physical therapy experience to the AIR Physical Therapy team. She received her Masters in Physical Therapy Degree from the University of Findlay and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh (Johnstown). Since 2012, she has held her Direct Access Certificate, allowing her to treat patients without a prescription or referral from a physician. Heather enjoys working with a variety of patients from all age groups. She has completed numerous continuing education courses over the years, focusing on orthopedic injuries. She is also certified in kinesiotaping. She is well versed in treating athletic injuries, neurological and vestibular conditions, and performing myofascial release techniques. In 2022, Heather received her certification in Active Release Technique (ART).

• Dan Zelch

  MPT, OCS

  As the owner of AIR Physical Therapy and Fitness, Dan Zelch has developed a reputation for practicing physical therapy with compassion and professionalism. Dan has over 28 years of experience in various aspects of physical therapy. He has served as an adjunct clinical professor in Duquesne University’s Physical Therapy Department as well as a clinical instructor for Duquesne University, Slippery Rock University, and several local community colleges. Dan received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Penn State University and his Masters Degree in Physical Therapy from Duquesne University. Recognizing the importance of keeping in line with current technology and practices, Dan has continued his education in ergonomics, lower extremity biomechanics, light therapy, and fall prevention for the geriatric population. Dan became a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) in 2007 and was re-certified in 2017. He has successfully completed a rigorous written examination that demonstrated specialized knowledge and advanced clinical proficiency in orthopaedic physical therapy practice, including treatment of sprains, strains, arthritic conditions and joint replacement surgeries. He is also a Licensed Direct Access Physical Therapist.