Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Physical Therapy Solutions in Baltimore
Physical Therapy First is dedicated to enhancing the physical health, quality of life, and wellness of our patients through compassionate care and clinical excellence. Our practice is guided by a commitment to personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs, ensuring optimal recovery and long-term well-being. With a team of highly trained professionals, many of whom are board-certified specialists and fellowship-trained, we utilize evidence-based techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to address a wide range of orthopedic, sports, and post-surgical conditions. Our one-on-one approach ensures patients receive focused attention in a supportive environment, fostering trust and accountability.We prioritize patient education to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to prevent re-injury and maintain independence. As a trusted partner in the Greater Baltimore community, we collaborate closely with physicians and caregivers to deliver coordinated care that aligns with the latest advancements in physical therapy. Our mission is to help patients return to their active lifestyles through innovative rehabilitation strategies and a dedication to lifelong learning.
Services
Dry Needling
IASTM
Manual Therapy
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Sports Physical Therapy
Spinal Decompression
Massage Therapy
Pre/Post Surgical Therapy
Total Joint Replacement
Muscle Energy Technique
Highlights and features
- We offer one-on-one care with licensed physical therapists for every visit.
- Our team includes board-certified specialists with advanced training in orthopedics and sports therapy.
- We utilize evidence-based techniques like dry needling, manual therapy, and spinal decompression.
- We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.
- We collaborate directly with physicians and caregivers for coordinated care.
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS)
What people say
Very kind staff
Significant improvement
Excellent therapist
Knowledgeable and professional
Reduced pain
Services
Dry Needling
Dry needling targets myofascial trigger points to alleviate pain and improve mobility. A thin filament needle is inserted into the muscle to elicit a twitch response, breaking the pain cycle. This technique is effective for neck, back, and joint pain, as well as headaches and sports injuries. Patients often experience immediate relief and reduced soreness after treatment.
IASTM
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) uses specialized tools to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. This non-invasive technique promotes healing by stimulating blood flow and collagen production. It is effective for conditions like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and post-surgical scarring. Combined with exercise, IASTM accelerates recovery and restores function.
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and enhance muscle function. Therapists use mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue work to address stiffness and dysfunction. This approach is ideal for adhesive capsulitis, joint pain, and postural imbalances. Patients gain improved range of motion and long-term pain relief.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Orthopedic physical therapy focuses on treating injuries and conditions affecting bones, muscles, and joints. Customized programs address post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, and chronic pain. Techniques include therapeutic exercise, modalities, and patient education. The goal is to restore strength, stability, and functional independence for daily and athletic activities.
Sports Physical Therapy
Sports physical therapy specializes in preventing and treating sports-related injuries. Services include performance assessments, injury-specific rehab, and return-to-play protocols. Therapists use sport-specific training to enhance agility, strength, and endurance. This service caters to athletes of all levels, from youth to professional, ensuring safe and effective recovery.
People
Maureen Ambrose
Physical Therapist / Dry Needling Certified / Residency Director
Dr. Ambrose holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland and is a board-certified Orthopedic Specialist. She completed dry needling certification through the Janet Travell Seminar Series and is certified in orthopedic manual therapy. She specializes in treating orthopedic and sports injuries.
John A. Baur
Physical Therapist
Dr. Baur earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland and is a board-certified Orthopedic Specialist. He completed a fellowship in orthopedic manual therapy and is certified in dry needling and strength conditioning. He served as physical therapist for Loyola University athletes for 14 years.
Samantha Gubka
Physical Therapist / Fellowship Administrator
Dr. Gubka received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Minnesota and is board-certified in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. She completed a fellowship in sports rehabilitation and serves as clinical faculty for orthopedic residency programs. She contributes to APTA committees and research initiatives.
Ray Moore
Residency & Fellowship Mentor
Dr. Moore holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and is a board-certified Orthopedic Specialist. He completed a fellowship in orthopedic manual therapy and mentors residents in advanced clinical practice. He also participates in research on low-back pain and light therapy.
Tyler Tice
Site Coordinator of Clinical Education / Dry Needling Certified
Dr. Tice earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy and Masters in Anatomy from the University of Delaware. He is a board-certified Orthopedic Specialist and clinical mentor for the orthopedic residency program. He has extensive experience working with athletes across multiple sports and conducts research on tendon injuries.
Questions
What services does Physical Therapy First offer?
We specialize in orthopedic, sports, and post-surgical rehabilitation, including dry needling, manual therapy, spinal decompression, and total joint replacement therapy.
Do I need a referral for physical therapy?
Maryland law allows direct access to physical therapy for up to 30 days without a physician's referral.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being treated, such as athletic wear.
Do you accept insurance?
We are in-network with most major insurance providers. Contact our office for specific coverage details.
How long are therapy sessions?
Initial evaluations last 60-75 minutes, with follow-up appointments typically lasting 60 minutes.
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