Before founding THEORY Physical Therapy, Dena gained two decades of experience in outpatient physical therapy. During her tenure, she held various leadership roles, including clinic manager and co-manager of a Women's Health Program. She later worked directly alongside orthopedic surgeons, treating patients before and after surgical procedures.
Dena's passion for physical therapy began at just 14 years old. Inspired by a biography about Christopher Reeve and the crucial role physical therapy played in his recovery, she sought out opportunities to learn more. She began shadowing physical therapists and later worked as a physical therapy aide, a role she held throughout high school and her undergraduate studies.
Dena earned a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Illinois - Chicago. She completed clinical rotations in various specialties, including orthopedics, acute care, and neuro-rehabilitation at leading institutions like Rush University and other outpatient clinics. Dena also pursued additional training in the McKenzie Method, Women's Health, Vestibular and Manual Therapy techniques. Her commitment to ongoing education and her belief in the body's innate ability to heal itself, given the right training, led her to obtain a Holistic Nutrition Certification. Dena incorporates functional exercises and nutrition into her practice to improve her patients' health and overall quality of life. She has also shared her professional experience as an instructor of Kinesiology at a local college, preparing future medical professionals for their careers. Dena is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and takes part in events supporting non-profit organizations that make an impact in making our world a better place.
Outside of her professional life, Dena enjoys movie and game nights with her husband and three sons. She has a passion for travel, leisurely walks, and Italian cuisine.
KERRI TWIETMEYER, PT, DPT, LCMT
Doctor of Physical Therapy | Licensed Clinical Massage Therapist