Physical Therapy

At Ottawa County Health Center, the Physical Therapy Department is dedicated to helping individuals improve their physical movement, manage pain, and recover from injuries or health conditions that limit their ability to function. The department provides a wide range of services aimed at enhancing mobility and overall well-being, guided by the philosophy that “motion is lotion.” With a team of skilled professionals, including Amber Monson, DPT, April Woody, CPTA, and Jacelyn Dawson, CPTA, patients can expect personalized care tailored to their specific needs.

Amber Monson, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, brings years of experience to the team. After growing up in Topeka, Kansas, Amber attended Tabor College for Athletic Training and Strength and Conditioning before earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Wichita State University in 2012. With a background in critical access hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing homes, Amber has a diverse skill set, specializing in sacroiliac dysfunctions and pelvic floor therapy, including treatment for urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunctions. Amber is also a two-time Boston Marathon finisher and enjoys running, weightlifting, and teaching yoga. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her four children and baking.

April Woody, a Certified Physical Therapy Assistant, has been a part of the OCHC team since 2011. Originally from Tescott, Kansas, April graduated from Washburn University and has since developed a strong passion for her work in the clinic. She enjoys the variety of patients she works with and the rewarding nature of the work. Outside of her professional life, April enjoys spending time with her daughter, staying active at the gym, and watching sports.

Jacelyn Dawson, also a Certified Physical Therapy Assistant, joined the team after graduating from Colby Community College in 2021. Jacelyn is passionate about helping patients improve their quality of life by motivating and inspiring them to achieve their functional goals. She loves working with a diverse range of conditions and appreciates the variety of settings that OCHC provides. Jacelyn resides in Minneapolis and enjoys fishing, singing, and crafting in her spare time.

The physical therapy team at OCHC offers a variety of services designed to meet the needs of patients facing different challenges. These services include dry needling, pelvic floor therapy, gait and balance therapy, aquatic therapy, chronic pain management, and vestibular therapy for vertigo. The department also specializes in treatments for enuresis (bedwetting) in children and motor development delays for young children who are not hitting appropriate developmental milestones.

Dry needling is one of the many specialized treatments offered at OCHC. This technique involves inserting solid monofilament needles into muscle trigger points to alleviate pain, reduce tension, and promote healing. Unlike traditional acupuncture, dry needling is a medical treatment based on a specific diagnosis. Pelvic floor therapy is another area of specialization, helping patients with urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and other related conditions. Additionally, gait and balance therapy is available for those who have experienced changes in their walking patterns or have suffered from frequent falls.