Matt DeWaard, PTA

Spooner Laveen

Physical Therapy Assistant

Education:
BS – Arizona State University (1991)
PTA – Gateway Community College (1999)

Areas of Interest:
Geriatrics
Orthopedics
Pediatrics
Post-Op
Soft Tissue / Myofascial Mobilization

Certifications:
Certification in Applied Functional Science (CAFS).

About Me:
Prior to a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant, Matt had a rewarding career in geotechnical engineering as a Level 2 NICET and ACI Materials Inspector. After graduating from PTA School at Gateway Community College in 1999, he traveled around Europe, where he visited and observed a few physical therapy settings in Budapest, Hungary; Dhahran, Saudi Arabia; and parts of Germany.

Matt remains inquisitive and has pursued every environment in the continuum of care. He worked at Scottsdale Healthcare for 11 years, where he led the Total Joint Class weekly and was instrumental in training the Lift team. From there, he has worked with pediatrics in the school systems in Avondale, Aquatic and Hippo-therapy in Apache Junction, Skilled Nursing, Acute Rehab, and Transitional Rehab settings throughout the valley. In addition to an extensive work history, Matt also serves as Adjunct Faculty for the Hybrid PTA program at Gateway Community College.

Matt has three kids who keep him busy and a wife who is an Occupational Therapist at Chandler Regional Hospital. Hobbies include spending time with family, camping, and playing guitar.