Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Premier Physical Therapy Destination in South Bend
Founded in 1989 by Fran McDonald, our practice has grown from a single clinic to a 14,000-square-foot facility serving Michiana. Our team of 44 professionals combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology like the HydroWorx 200 and AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill. We specialize in personalized treatment plans for orthopedic injuries, sports rehabilitation, and chronic pain management. Our approach integrates manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and evidence-based protocols to accelerate recovery. With satellite locations at the University of Notre Dame, we serve athletes from high school to professional levels. Our commitment to community extends through local sports coaching and board memberships in regional health organizations.We maintain affiliations with major medical associations and continuously invest in staff certifications to ensure clinical excellence. Patient testimonials highlight our 44% faster recovery rates compared to industry averages. Our facility includes a full fitness center available to patients post-therapy, emphasizing long-term wellness. Fran McDonald's leadership, informed by his Notre Dame football background and 25+ years in physical therapy, shapes our patient-centric philosophy. We maintain partnerships with local physicians for seamless care coordination and offer specialized programs for post-surgical rehabilitation.
Services
Physical Therapy
Pain Management
Sports Rehabilitation
Post-Surgical Rehab
Water Therapy
Fitness Training
Orthopedic Care
Neck Treatment
Back Pain Relief
Athletic Performance
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 36 years of excellence in physical therapy since 1989
- 44% faster recovery rates compared to industry averages
- State-of-the-art facilities with HydroWorx 200 and AlterG technology
- Team of 44 certified professionals including sports specialists
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual recovery goals
Associations and certifications
- Certified Astym Provider
What people say
44% faster recovery
Compassionate therapists
Expert staff
Personalized care
Advanced equipment
Services
Physical Therapy
Our comprehensive physical therapy programs address musculoskeletal injuries and chronic conditions. Using evidence-based techniques like manual therapy and therapeutic exercise, we create individualized plans to restore mobility and reduce pain. Patients benefit from our 30+ years of clinical expertise and advanced equipment like the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill.
Sports Rehabilitation
Specialized programs for athletes at all levels utilize sports-specific training protocols. Our team with NCAA and professional experience combines biomechanical analysis with performance enhancement techniques. The Notre Dame campus location offers convenient access for collegiate athletes requiring specialized rehabilitation services.
Water Therapy
The HydroWorx 200 pool enables low-impact rehabilitation through controlled water resistance. This service benefits patients with severe joint pain or post-surgical recovery needs. The aquatic environment allows earlier mobilization while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness for musculoskeletal conditions.
Post-Surgical Rehab
Customized rehabilitation plans follow orthopedic procedures like joint replacements or spinal fusions. Our therapists coordinate care with referring physicians to optimize recovery timelines. The program incorporates progressive strengthening protocols and pain management techniques to restore function.
Pain Management
Non-opioid approaches address chronic back, neck, and joint pain through manual therapy and targeted exercise. Certified specialists treat conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica using evidence-based interventions. The program emphasizes long-term pain reduction through functional movement improvement.
People
Fran McDonald
President/CEO
Founder with 30+ years in physical therapy, former Notre Dame football player, and Doctor of Physical Therapy from Boston University. Serves on multiple healthcare boards and sports medicine fellowships.
Katie Blum
Physical Therapist
Experienced clinician specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation with focus on individualized care plans. Recognized for compassionate approach to patient recovery and functional restoration.
Chad Kuehne
Physical Therapist
Sports injury specialist with expertise in post-surgical rehabilitation. Known for developing progressive treatment protocols that combine manual therapy with performance training techniques.
Drake Luginbuhl
Physical Therapist
Notre Dame campus location lead with specialization in collegiate athlete rehabilitation. Implements innovative training methods that integrate academic and athletic performance goals.
Allison Rykse
Physical Therapist
Recognized for compassionate care in chronic pain management. Develops personalized treatment strategies that address both physical limitations and emotional well-being during recovery.
Questions
What makes McDonald Physical Therapy different from other clinics?
Our 30+ years of experience, patented treatment protocols, and advanced equipment like the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill enable 44% faster recovery rates compared to industry averages.
Do you accept insurance for physical therapy services?
We work with most major insurance providers and offer verification of benefits before treatment begins. Our staff handles all insurance coordination for patient convenience.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring your insurance card, photo ID, current medication list, and any relevant medical records. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area.
How long are typical therapy sessions?
Initial evaluations last 45-60 minutes. Subsequent sessions typically range from 30-60 minutes depending on treatment complexity and individual progress.
Can you help with post-surgical rehabilitation?
Yes, we specialize in post-surgical recovery with customized plans developed in coordination with your surgeon. Our therapists have experience with all major orthopedic procedures.
Do you offer weekend appointment times?
While our regular hours are Monday-Friday, we offer limited Saturday appointments for post-operative patients requiring urgent care coordination.
