Joie Flees is a physical therapist specializing in orthopedic therapy. She is also a partner in the Spine and Rehabilitation Center. Joie has made significant contributions to the organization through her work on developing post operative rehab protocols. Joie’s approach to the evaluation and treatment is an integration of a mechanical diagnosis with manual techniques to treat injuries to the spine and extremities. “The evaluation delineates the injured structure, while treatment focuses on a movement preference that the patient can use to decrease and control symptoms. Exercises are built around the movement preference, strengthening core muscles to encourage long term improvement. Manual and hands-on techniques are used to facilitate range of motion and improve myofascial and joint mobility. Functional retraining with focus on correct body mechanics translates treatment from the clinic to the home and work settings.”
Joie enjoys gardening and spending time with her husband, David, and their cats and dogs.
Certifications and Distinctions
Certified; McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy
Fellow; American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists
Certified; Orthopaedic Certified Specialist in Physical Therapy
Professional Memberships and Affiliations
American Physical Therapy Association
Texas Physical Therapy Association
Current Professional Appointments
Annual Conference Committee; Texas Physical Therapy Association
Liaison; To the Texas State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
Delegate; Assembly of Texas Physical Therapy Association
Past Secretary; Capital Area District of the Texas Physical Therapy Association
Education
Dual degree Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Bachelor of Science in Psychology; University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Physical Therapy; Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas
Residency Program in Advanced Orthopaedic Physical Therapy; Manual Therapy Institute, Austin, Texas
McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment of the Lumbar, Cervical, and Thoracic Spine; McKenzie Institute
Myofascial Release of the Shoulder and Upper Extremity; Hutchinson Therapy, Austin, Texas
Myofascial Release of the Pelvic Girdle and Lower Extremity; Hutchinson Therapy, Austin, Texas
Teaching Positions, Publications, and Presentations
Clinical Instructor for Graduate Physical Therapy students, Austin, Texas, 2003
“Management of Back Pain”, Co-presentation at Brackenridge Physicians’ Meeting, Austin, Texas, July 2000
“Keeping Your Body Strong”, Austin Chapter, American Academy of Kidney Patients, Austin, Texas, October 2000
