About Us

IMG_2321Dr. Philip Denema, PT, DPT, ATC

FAAOMPT, Osteopractor, Cert SMT, Cert DN, Cert VRS

Physical Therapist Specialist and Owner

 

 

Phil became a physical therapist because he is driven by one thing: helping people get better. That passion ultimately led him to open Spine & Sports Physical Therapy in 2016, where he has built a practice centered on individualized, evidence-based, and highly skilled care.

With more than 18 years of clinical experience, Phil has developed a treatment approach that blends advanced manual therapy, applied neurology, and targeted exercise prescription. He is committed to lifelong learning and continually integrates new research and post-graduate training into his work to deliver the most effective outcomes for his patients.

Phil is one of roughly 1,200 fellowship-trained manual orthopedic physical therapists (FAAOMPT) in the United States and one of only 14 in Connecticut. His extensive post-doctoral training includes:

  • Fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (AAMT) 2015
  • Certifications in Spinal Manipulative Therapy (Cert. SMT) 2014 and Dry Needling (Cert. DN) 2015
  • Diploma in Osteopractic (one of the original 70 worldwide) 2015
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist (Cert. VRS)
  • Additional coursework in applied neurology, BFR, and advanced exercise prescription

Phil’s mission is simple: provide focused, one-on-one care that empowers patients to move better, feel better, and return to the activities they love.

Phil received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (DPT) from Sacred Heart University in 2007.  Prior to this he completed his undergraduate at Sacred Heart University, receiving a B.S in Athletic Training in 2004.  During that time he worked with division 1 student athletes in football, basketball, cross country/track, lacrosse, wrestling, softball and volleyball.

 

Dr. Brandon Learned, PT, DPT

OCS, FDN – 1, CDNMT, Cert VRS

Physical Therapist Specialist

 

 

Brandon grew up in Agawam, MA, where he developed a passion for sports and exercise from a young age. After several sports-related injuries, he became interested in the field of health care as a profession. He attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. He then attended American International College in Springfield, MA to pursue his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

Upon graduating in 2018, he began working at an outpatient orthopedic facility in Enfield, CT, where he saw a wide array of orthopedic and neuromuscular-based patients. He became certified in Functional Dry Needling in December 2018, which he utilizes to supplement his patient care. Brandon is passionate in helping his patients achieve their goals and feel better, using evidence-based treatment practices.

Outside of work, he enjoys staying active by working out, running, hiking, and playing sports.

 

Michele Morris, PT

Physical Therapist

 

Michele believes that each patient is a unique individual and the treatment that they receive should be tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Michele received her BS degree from Ithaca College majoring in Physical Therapy. She has extensive training in Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT), craniosacral therapy and neuromobilization. She has studied Feldlenkrais and recently completed the Sara Meeks program in osteoporosis as well as part 1 of 2 for her dry needling certification.

She has worked in the outpatient setting for over 25 years with a strong background in treating patients with orthopedic diagnosis including back and neck pain. She welcomes the opportunity to help you reach your rehab goals.

When not working Michele can be found kayaking or gardening.