Onward Physical Therapy Bellingham

Experiencia fantástica: Alex at Onward Physical Therapy is a true anatomy aficionado, incorporating an array of techniques like needling, TENS, cupping, and massage. He customizes exercises thoughtfully with the patient in mind. Alex excels as an educator, simplifying complex anatomy and therapy concepts. Under his care, I've shifted focus from injury woes to pursuing my goals. Kudos to Alex and Heather at Onward for their excellent work!

Experiencia fantástica: Heather at Onward Bellingham has been amazing in my process of becoming the best athlete I can be at any phase of life I am in. I have worked with her after and during both of my pregnancy’s. My pelvic health has become so much stronger and have been able to do more in CrossFit and everyday life. She is very personable, understanding and easy to connect with during my appointments. I don’t feel judged in my goals and feel she is there to support me every step of the way!

Experiencia fantástica: I've been seeing Heather as a PT and weightlifting coach for over a year now, and the experience has been excellent in the extreme. I came with some injuries and an extensive lifting history, and have deeply enjoyed the process of working with a coach who can help me develop goals and program around raising a toddler, when otherwise I would have laid off out of frustration. A very collaborative and supportive practitioner.

Experiencia fantástica: I can’t recommend onward Bellingham enough! I worked with Heather this winter after a painful recurring knee injury and as well as various little injuries from my goal to start running half marathons and marathons, I decided to go to physical therapy and it was one of the best decisions I made! The workouts, education and running plan Heather gave me helped me feel stronger, more confident, pain free and I completed my goals of running half marathon and marathon this year feeling confident in myself! I can’t wait to work with her again for my next goal! Thank you!!

Experiencia fantástica: Heather has been a tremendous help. I have suffered with back and hip pain. Heather has given me exercises that have really helped. She reasses frequently to make sure my routine is helping, adjusting when necessary.

Experiencia fantástica: I had a great experience at Onward. They dug deep to see what the issues are and lay out a great plan to help ease the pain I was having. I would definitely recommend them!

Experiencia fantástica: Alex has been instrumental to getting me back to mountain biking and skiing post injury. I originally started coming into Onward post shoulder injury (ac joint) but have continued coming in due to Alex helping me to work through many past injuries that I have been brushing off for years! I am a regular in the gym, and I love that Alex has helped to give me good “homework” that fits with the equipment my gym has to rehabilitate my injuries. Feeling stronger and more confident than ever, and it’s all thanks to Alex’s knowledge & guidance. Thanks Onward!!

Experiencia fantástica: Alex Benitez is a healer, also a kind soul. I came in with nagging pain that I could not get relief from. His communication skills and knowledge helped me figure out how to help myself heal. Along with the treatment he gave me, and the protocol- i went from a month of irritating pain back to 100%. Highly recommend and will be coming back in the future if needed.

Experiencia fantástica: Excellent knowledge, care, and attention to detail. Dr. Benitez took the time to understand my sports background and how I got injured. He analyzed my stride and my current limitations, and then developed a personal plan to get me where I wanted to be. Dr. Benitez doesn't simply prescribe a cookie-cutter regimen but rather takes the time to address your unique situation with his extensive knowledge and expertise. Thanks for getting me back up and running!

Experiencia fantástica: 20 plus years of commercial fishing and a seasonal addiction to snowboarding has resulted in countless visits to massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncture, and trainers. Working with Alex has improved my quality of life by allowing me the flexibility to seek therapy almost immediately when needed. Sometimes the difference between a back spasm and tight hammies is the ability to come in short notice for a psoas release. There’s nothing more frustrating than needing treatment and being told you cant get an appointment until next week. The multi disciplinary approach that Alex brings to his practice is unparalleled. Not only is he incredibly proficient at relieving acute symptoms, but also thoughtful enough to advise on a variety of training strategies to reduce the frequency of recurring body issues. I’ve gotten immediate results after visiting Alex for low back and hip pain, shoulder mobility and neck pain and most recently a very painful ribcage after an unfortunate fall involving a toddler, fireworks and the corner of a picnic table bench. Thank You Team Onward!

Experiencia fantástica: Alex is so awesome and found out the pain origin of my foot/heel. He also used cupping, massage, and different exercise to minimize the pain. By the end of the 1st session, I walked out of his clinic without limps.........YES!

Experiencia fantástica: I had a chronic wrist injury that I just couldn't get rid of. It would always take so long to get into my old physical therapist that I never knew if I would still be in pain by the time the appointment came around. I was able to show Alex my injured wrist and he provided me some stretching and strengthening exercises. The pain was gone in a couple weeks. I couldn't believe it considering I was looking at cortisone shots or surgery. Can't recommend Alex enough!

Experiencia fantástica: So glad that I found Alex at Onward after tearing my ACL. He helped me manage and rehab the initial injury, and designed a program to strengthen my knee over the following months. I feel very fortunate to have regained full strength, mobility, and stability while avoiding surgery. I'm now back climbing and training BJJ at full intensity -- thanks again, Alex!

Experiencia fantástica: Dr. Heather gave great, personalized guidance for prenatal fitness. Highly recommend her!

Experiencia fantástica: I’ve been looking/needing pt for quite some time. So far, I’ve completed my initial intake and found Dr. Salzer to be the perfect provider. She’s incredibly knowledgable, patient, and structured a plan to help me achieve my fitness goals. I have a very extensive fitness background that has been hampered for the past two years due to injuries. After my appointment, I left feeling like there was light at the end of the tunnel. Definitely recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: I had been struggling with sciatica for a while and could not participate in my favorite activities, let alone get out of the car or out of bed without excruciating pain. My doctor recommended physical therapy, and that is when I began weekly visits with Heather and Josh at Onward. They prescribed me exercises and stretches for sciatica tailored to my specific needs, and now after about two months, I am able to mountain bike with my son again and stand up on my surfboard with ease. Thank you so much, Heather and Josh, I can't wait for ski season!

Experiencia fantástica: So thankful for the team at Onward! Dr. Heather is incredible. During each visit she listens, treats, and then gives me tasks I can work on at home to continue making progress. I highly recommend this team if you want to get moving again!!

Experiencia fantástica: Onward is exceptional in meeting clients where they’re at—in order to get them where they want to go: onward in their healthspan. During an acute workout injury, Dr. Salzer found time the day I sent her a message to gently manipulate and massage the injured area in order to diagnose and relieve pain. She prescribed a course of exercises to get me to heal and amended my workout routine. Onward’s clients are very fortunate.

Experiencia fantástica: If you are having pain or looking to tackle a new big challenge while staying healthy, Onward is the place to be. I have worked with both Heather and Alex through a variety of problems and on multiple goals. They are both a wealth of knowledge and truly care about me being able to do what I love- Pain free. I would recommend their once-a-month program for anyone who cares about their fitness and wants to take care of their body.

Experiencia fantástica: Really great, thorough evaluation and plan. This was my 16 year old’s first visit after a spine injury from skiing. Alex took a thorough, insightful history and physical, made my son do some work, and came up with a detailed plan of action. My son left motivated and hopeful. It is hard to believe this was only a 1 hour session as so much was covered. Highly recommended!

Experiencia fantástica: I highly recommend Heather Salzer at Onward Physical Therapy. Heather helped me work through and overcome a long standing injury. After seeing two other PTs without success, I was fortunate to find Heather who quickly diagnosed my issue, developed an effective PT exercise regime, and helped me return to full workouts without pain. Heather is highly knowledgeable and responsive, an excellent listener, and I especially appreciate her research-based approach to treating injuries. Thank you Heather!

Experiencia fantástica: I can’t recommend Alex and the team at Onward Bellingham highly enough! They are affordable, very professional, take the time to listen and understand your goals, and go above and beyond to help you towards a pain free body. When I started with Alex, I couldn’t deadlift 50lbs without stabbing back and nerve pain. By the end of my time in the Restore and Perform program, I was lifting 325lbs without any pain! Bellingham!!! If you’re looking for a great Physical Therapy for your running, CrossFit, lifting, biking, ski-to sea prep, or just general physical therapy goals, I highly suggest you check out Onward Physical Therapy! They don’t miss!

Experiencia fantástica: I injured my hamstring as I was training for my first marathon. Without knowing how to progress, I went to see Alex and his student Josh and I am SO GLAD I did. These guys left no stone unturned when it came to finding solutions and care for the injury. Most importantly, they put a huge emphasis on not just getting me past the injury, but also helping me get stronger to ensure the injury didn’t come back. They were always honest about where I was at and helped me make informed decisions about training. I was so afraid of re-injuring the muscle but they helped me work through the fear by showing me what I was capable of and giving me the confidence I needed to progress. Through the work we did together, the pain went away and I’m successfully completing long runs pain free! I couldn’t have done it without the care and support from these two. I highly recommend them to anyone recovering from injury. Thanks Onward team!!

Experiencia fantástica: My wife and I both go to Onward and are seeing great results. My goal was to get back to pain-free running, and Alex gave me a simple but effective PT program to pair with a return-to-run program, and voila, I’m now running 20 miles a week! My wife is also seeing great improvement thanks to Heather’s work with her. We’re almost fully returned to our active selves, and we’re thrilled!

Experiencia fantástica: Dr. Alex provides the perfect combo of personal and professional care! He makes you feel at ease while working towards your health and fitness goals. Looking forward to going back!

Experiencia fantástica: Seriously could not recommend these guys highly enough. As a PT myself, I went to Alex to help me through a frustrating chronic injury. He intently listened to my full story, asked clarifying questions about what has and hasn’t worked, and performed a thorough examination to get to the root of what was going on. His treatment approach was straight to the point and provided a clear path moving forward toward meeting my goals. It is obvious that helping people get out of pain and move better is not just a job to Alex, but something he is exceptionally passionate about. The value of what this kind of high quality, focused, one-on-one physical therapy can do for improving your quality of life is truly priceless in my opinion. Beyond grateful to have found these guys and will definitely be back if needed in the future!

Experiencia fantástica: Highly recommend! I have been to other physical therapists in the past and Onward is so progressive and effective in their treatments. I went in for a shoulder injury (that was also causing pain in other parts of my body from doing weird things) and they are treating my should, but also the whole body. I am feeling better than before my injury. Best PT in Bellingham.

Experiencia fantástica: Heather got me back on the Pacific Crest Trail! I signed up to join my nephew, a PCT thru-hiker, on parts of sections J and K of the PCT. After finishing 30 miles on section J, my lower back seized up, making it uncomfortable to walk or climb stairs, even without a backpack. I visited Onward Bellingham's new PT clinic in the Granary Building where Heather did a thorough evaluation. She performed some back manipulations, then some cupping, then had me do several reps of high-intensity exercise on the air bike, followed by kettlebell squats with my back flat against the wall, and floor stretches. Photos before and after treatment showed a significant improvement in range of motion. I returned to the PCT the next day to join my nephew for 40 more miles of backpacking with a 30lb pack without pain. Thank you Heather! June 2022 update I attended an Onward Bellingham clinic today on "Runners knee". This was such a great running clinic! Dr. Alex Benitez provided a clear, informative, and entertaining presentation addressing the most common problem runners face. He described simple steps that all runners can apply to reduce the frequency and severity of patella femoral pain. The presentation included slow-mo gait analysis video with live on-screen mark-ups showing common misalignment, crossover, and heal-striking problems and how to correct these issues. The clinic included revealing audience participation exercises (I need to work on quad strength!) and plenty of time for Q&A and discussion. Any Bellingham-area runners who did not attend today's clinic should look for future opportunities to join this free clinic if Onward Bellingham offers it again. June 2023 update I had an incredible session with Alex Benitez and Heather Salzer at Onward Bellingham Physical Therapy today where they applied their Institute for Clinical Excellence training and tools to adjust my bike to fit my body. Changes were made to seat height, seat position (front/back), seat angle, handlebar height, and handlebar angle. I've been riding a bike for 56 years and I've never been professionally fitted to a bike. They have high-tech measurement tools, including laser, to get everything tuned perfectly. The post-fitting ride felt much different and better in every way. Thank you Alex and Heather!

Experiencia fantástica: I cannot say enough about the incredible results and ongoing care I get from Heather Salazar at Onward! I came in with injuries from years of bad habits at work, and her incredible knowledge has helped me not only heal but also to improve my life and my body. And she’s a stellar human being, personable, and really knows the best way to help people find what they need on an individual level. HIGHLY RECOMMEND 10/10

Experiencia fantástica: Writing this review on behalf of my partner who doesn't do Google reviews, but wants the world to know that he receives excellent care at Onward! The whole experience has stood out in how collaborative it is. He describes Heather as engaged, invested, supportive, and extremely knowledgeable. I don't think he was expecting to be totally amazed by going to PT, but he's so excited about his progress and trajectory.

Experiencia fantástica: I had a great experience at Onward Physical Therapy. I have had an ongoing injury that has bothered me for years and i have tried other physios and alternate treatments. My therapist Alex was incredibly knowledgeable and did both manual therapy and created a personalized treatment plan that helped me make significant progress in my recovery to the point where i am now pain free and able to do activities that i haven't been able to in years. The facility is clean, well-equipped, and both Heather and Alex are friendly and supportive. If you're looking for excellent physical therapy in Bellingham, I highly recommend Onward!

Experiencia fantástica: My first appointment with Heather exceeded my expectations. She is a great listener + asked clarifying questions.The in-office treatment gave me some immediate relief and the prescribed treatment plan has me hopeful I'll be feeling better soon. I highly recommend Heather at Onward!

Experiencia fantástica: I've been an athlete all my life and have been to many specialists for help rehabbing my various injuries. I saw Alex for a back/glute injury and am so glad I did! After a very thorough exam, I was amazed at all the techniques he incorporated to see what would help me heal. This was by no means a cookie-cutter PT exam and treatment, they find what works best for each individual. I would highly recommend going here!

Experiencia fantástica: One of the most challenging things about finding a good physical therapist is finding someone who personalizes care, someone who doesn't just give you a standard prescription but instead evaluates your specific need and helps you get back to the things you love to do! I worked with Alex on the neck and upper back issue, something that was causing me pain and making my activity of choice - CrossFit - pretty uncomfortable. I'm on my way to feeling much better and have a set of exercises I can do at home. He also did a running analysis to help me figure out how to avoid shin splints. Alex and Heather are so passionate and knowledgeable, and that really matters. I know I can count on both of them for any future issues I have!

Experiencia fantástica: Alex was my PT lifeline after separating my shoulder snowboarding. His passion and dedication to getting my shoulder back in shape was amazing. Alex is extremely knowledgeable in his field. And, he has the gift of listening and communicating clearly which goes a long way toward patient success. I’m now back to doing all the outdoor actives I love to do. Bonus is their awesome studio on the Bellingham waterfront. I highly recommend Onward Bellingham.

Experiencia fantástica: In 2017 I injured my ACL, and recently tore my LMCL & MMCL as a result of my previous injury. I realized I would need to address this with surgery to continue to do all the things that I love. I found Onward while searching for a physical therapist that would be more than just body weight exercises and resistance bands to better prepare my body for recovery after surgery. I have very physically demanding jobs (Career Fire Fighter, Part-time Farrier) and had a lot of anxiety related to the thought of not being able to work or do the physically demanding activities that I enjoy. Over the last couple months, Heather has helped me build strength and re-learn how to use my leg, which I have been unconsciously protecting for years. I feel much stronger, comfortable, and confident. Although I still wear my knee brace to protect it and support me during work, I no longer feel the need to wear it while doing normal physical activity around my farm or for day-to-day tasks. I have a weightlifting routine that Heather designed for me that helps push my body and build strength while keeping my injury from worsening. She is very supportive and I feel she truly cares about my goals and helping me prepare for and recover from my upcoming surgery! She’s a great listener and is always trying to find what works best for me. I still feel anxious about this surgery and the resulting down-time, but I feel so much better having a plan in place and someone who is going to help me achieve my goals! I want to be back on my Engine on the early side of the common recovery range, and I know with Heather’s help, I’ll be able to!!! I have already recommended Onward to colleagues with injuries, and I would recommend Onward to anyone looking for a physical therapist that listens, is supportive, and will have you performing your best after your injury!

Experiencia fantástica: I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with Heather though the recovery of my herniated disc. It was her positive attitude and dedication to my treatment plan that helped me return to crazy active lifestyle! I would highly recommend Onward Physical therapy!!

Experiencia fantástica: I had the pleasure of working with Alex who is very honest with what he thinks you need. I’ve been to probably 15 different PT’s in my life while doing sports and often times been put on a plan of coming back once a week over and over again whether I’m getting better or not. Alex did not operate that way nor did he seem money hungry to to get me in visit after visit. I truly felt as if he wanted to get me back out there to be performing at my best again! And that’s what I got. Thanks Onward.

Experiencia fantástica: Cannot say enough good things about these guys. I saw Alex after some elbow and neck pain I had been dealing with after some high volume training and Crossfit competitions. It was so nice to talk with someone who shares a passion for fitness, and the desire to stay in the gym. I feel very confident about the plan we mapped out for moving forward :)

Experiencia fantástica: I hurt my calf running this summer. For two months I rested and iced the sore leg. Simple daily tasks like walking and driving aggravated the injury and I didn’t know how to start moving again. Heather gave me exercises that helped strengthen the leg, I could feel and see improvement between each session. After 5 weeks I’m hiking, jogging, and doing yoga again. I wished I started with her sooner.

Experiencia fantástica: Alex was great supporting me through an injury. He was very knowledgeable about body mechanics and how to support the healing process. He listened to my feedback and tailored exercises to my desired fitness level. After a few months of weekly visits my recovery has progressed soo well! Thank you!

Experiencia fantástica: Dr. Heather Salzer is extremely knowledgeable and I've thoroughly enjoyed working with her for some running-related injuries. She did a running assessment that was really helpful in understanding where I have issues with my running form and providing a targeted plan and rehabilitation exercises.

Experiencia fantástica: I've been experiencing a lot of struggles with pelvic floor health, and overall, my quality of life has been seriously impacted. I saw Heather lastnight and I cannot express how wonderful it felt to not only have my pain and discomfort taken seriously, but also be heard and given a solid plan to resolve these issues. This isn't a, take a pill and be on your way, visit. This is genuine concern for your physical and mental health with active thought specially tailored to your body to stop your discomfort at the source, rather than treating the symptoms. I have such high praise for this company and Heather herself. She made me feel so comfortable, explained all her reasoning, and asked for permission to touch me before doing anything. Honestly, if you're looking for a physical therapist that truly cares about your success, go to Onward. Thank you so much Heather.

Experiencia fantástica: I recently returned from a road trip and suffered "drivers knee" (or at least that's what I found online when I self diagnosed myself). I was constantly in pain and wasn't sure if I would be able to squat again. I do Crossfit (don't judge me). I met Alex a couple of weeks after my trip and he figured out that it was an irritated hamstring that was pinching my sciatica nerve. He was very upfront about it taking probably 6 weeks to get better and he didn't try to push a lot of appointments on me. I've seen Physical Therapists before where they try to get you in multiple times a week, every week for months. I personally can't afford that, plus it seems like over kill. I like that Alex gave me my exercises and scheduled me out 2 weeks. That way it gives your body time to strengthen and heal from the exercises he gives you. I'm at the 5 week mark and I'm able to do 95% of everything I use to do. My knee still gets a little angry at very bent angles, but it's so close to being healed and way better than it was 5 weeks ago. I highly recommend Onward, their online scheduling is really easy and their space is beautiful.

Experiencia fantástica: I’ve been to several physical therapists and Heather has surpassed them all. She is attentive, kind, supportive, and incredibly knowledgeable. Her sessions include a mix of messaging/cupping, movement assessments and workouts designed to be gentle but effective in working through problem areas. I’ve seen great improvements in my shoulder since seeing her and I wish my schedule allowed me to see her more often. You will not be disappointed with this great company!

Experiencia fantástica: Heather is so personable and in tune with her patients. She's always read up on the most recent studies while simultaneously informing her patients of updates in science. She takes a multifaceted approach to her patients needs and goes above and beyond to help them get better. I met Heather when my injury was preventing me from walking some days. She was so patient throughout the healing journey with my temperamental Achilles and I will always be so thankful for her persistence and patience. She created the foundation for my healing journey and I now have no trouble walking or jogging. I'm forever grateful.

Experiencia fantástica: Dr. Heather is outstanding to work with. She listens to her clients and creates a meaningful plan with the client to get them to their goals. I would recommend Onward Bellingham to anyone looking for a great PT and Sport Strength training experience.

Experiencia fantástica: I’ve been fortunate enough to be one of Heather’s clients. Her depth of knowledge on ‘how and why’ engaging the pelvic floor has been invaluable. I have seen multiple PTs over the years who provided relief but never could isolate the cause of my problem. Heather was the first PT to pinpoint the core issue. Since working with Heather I have noticed a huge difference not only in my workouts but my daily living! Heather has a warm and comforting approach when treating you. She listens carefully, explains in detail what she is doing and is wonderful at checking in with you between visits to see how you are progressing. Heather’s greatest attribute is her passion to see her patients return to quality living.

Experiencia fantástica: Heather has been the game-changer for my love of running. In just a few months, she accomplished what no one else could do after years of trying. I had poor running form that caused nagging, recurring injuries. For years, I sought help from several physical therapists, and when that didn't work I tried to fix it on my own. I was about to give up on running when I found Heather a few months ago. She really listens to me and is interested in the observations I have about my own body - she didn't just stick me with a unchanging diagnosis after talking to me for 5 minutes like so many PTs do. My treatment plan was goal based, versus simply fixing one specific issue, which led to a more holistic treatment approach. Heather continues to surprise me with her accessibility, responsiveness to questions, and friendliness. Sadly this isn't the norm with medical providers, but Heather breaks the norms. I highly recommend Heather to anyone in need of physical therapy.

Experiencia fantástica: Heather is an amazing Physical Therapist! When I first saw Heather I was ramping up for a 50K and injured yet again. Heather took the time to evaluate ALL aspects of my training and health to help me rebuild before my race. Heather is incredibly kind and personable in her practice which instantly made me feel comfortable. Heather took the time to ask questions and listen, and my running is so much better for having worked with her. I would highly recommend Heather to anyone!