Therapist

(ABOUT ME)

Hello! I'm Gilbert, but call me Gil. I am the owner of Tao of Physical Therapy.

I'm currently located in Columbia, SC, but I am originally from California, where I had completed my undergrad with a BA in psychology from University of San Francisco. I graduated from University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in Florida with a doctorate in physical therapy. I am also a board-certified specialist in neurologic physical therapy.


Here is the story of how my passion came to be.



I grew up on Chinese martial arts and wuxia folklore. The heroes were almost always master physicians as well as skilled fighters. They were the hearts of their communities and would leave positive impact along the way as they travel throughout the country. They represent virtue and auspiciousness, reflexively protecting the elderly and the poor. This set my childhood dreams of becoming a healer for my community. This goal, or even just the pathway to that goal, would be revealed much later in the physical therapy profession.


(ABOUT ME)

Even before attending PT school, I've had a specific interest in Parkinson's Disease

During my time at USF in 2012, I had stumbled into a presentation held by Dr. Nancy Byl of the UCSF Physical Therapy department, where she demonstrated the use of boxing as a treatment intervention for PD. It was the familiar sound of the mitts that had drawn me in, as an active martial artists for many years. That was the first time I had learned of the profession. Throughout the years, I have gained mentors who sparked my interest in orthopaedic PT, but also helped me reach my goal of becoming a physical therapist for neurological rehabilitation. During and after PT school, I obtained training and certifications in several specialties in manual therapy, and also Parkinson's-specific certifications.



Outside of physical therapy, I enjoy camping adventures on my Indian Scout. I have a blog of my travels on the bike. Additionally, I still train in martial arts and have an extensive background in Muay Thai and Wing Chun.

Licensed in SC and FL


Certifications:

  • Board Certified Neurological Clinical Specialist
  • Certified in Dry Needling
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
  • LSVT BIG Certified Provider
  • PWR!Moves Certified Therapist
  • Parkinson's Foundation Allied Team Training Alumni
  • Graston Technique Specialist


In Progress:

  • Functional Manual Therapy
  • Postural Restoration


Affiliations:

  • American Physical Therapist Association
  • Institute of Physical Art
  • Postural Restoration Institute
  • American Association of Manipulative Therapy/Spinal Manipulation Institute
  • Graston Technique
  • Otago Exercise Program
  • Parkinson Wellness Recovery
  • LSVT Global
  • Parkinson's Foundation
  • Rock Steady Boxing
  • NeuroCollaborative


Physiotherapy

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Rehabilitation

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Pain relief

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Recovery

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Wellness

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Strength

Agamemnon "Aggie"

Therapy Dog In-Training, Aggie is a brand new puppy from the Appalachia with a heart as huge as his paws. He is part liquid as he can slip through any obstacle. He is designed to keep you guessing, but also a sweet companion to brighten your day!