Dr. Rebecca Root, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
- Virtual: Illinois, Missouri
Rebecca completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Missouri–St. Louis before earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. She also holds a Master of Health Science with a concentration in Health Education and has completed an Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency. She has additional training in Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Functional Dry Needling and is currently pursuing Therapeutic Pain Specialist certification.
Role at Pain Science PT
As a Per Diem Telehealth Physical Therapist at Pain Science Physical Therapy, Rebecca provides modern, evidence-based care to help patients reduce pain, improve movement, and build confidence in their bodies.
Why Physical Therapy?
Rebecca chose physical therapy because it brings together science, service, and human connection in a way few professions can. She values the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping people return to work, sport, or simply enjoy life with less pain and greater confidence.
Approach to Care
Rebecca specializes in orthopaedic physical therapy, including pre- and post-operative rehabilitation. Her approach is grounded in modern pain science and the biopsychosocial model, considering the physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors that influence pain and recovery. She emphasizes education, graded exposure to movement, and collaborative goal-setting to help patients build confidence, resilience, and long-term self-efficacy.
Patient Impact
While serving in Afghanistan, Rebecca worked with a member of a SEAL team who had been shot in the leg and was recovering at the Wounded Warrior Recovery Center. Despite significant pain and limited mobility, he continued finding ways to contribute meaningfully to his unit. What stayed with Rebecca was the support and camaraderie of his teammates, who would visit, share stories, and have a cup of coffee together. The experience reinforced for her the powerful role that resilience, connection, and community can play in the healing process.