Jay
(Jerome) Charles
Physical Therapist
Jay began his career in the U.S. Air Force. He was 18, and his father had just completed a 30 year career in the military. "Dad didn't actively recruit me but I do remember knowing that I wanted to make him proud. My three sisters are registered nurses and Dad was proud many times over." After four years with the Air Force Jay knew what his life calling was: to become a physical therapist.
After completing his B.S. in Physical Therapy at UW-Madison in 1984, Jay worked at St. Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield. This turned out to be a wonderful experience for a new graduate. He saw different ways a therapist could work which increased his interest in teaching. It also contributed to him currently being active in training PT student interns and enjoying the teaching and training that goes into patient care.
Those early years were filled with a desire to travel. So, in four years' time Jay was back in the Air Force, this time with his family and with the ability to do what he loved: caring for the active duty troops and their families. He was introduced to the McKenzie Method by a good friend and through the Air Force earned his credentials in MDT (Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment) in 1995. Jay owes much of his teaching ability in learning this system that focuses on training the individual to treat themselves through their own movements and positions. Jay served tours of duty in Arizona, Michigan, and Germany. He joined the growing practice of Orthopedic & Spine Therapy in 1998 and progressed his trainging through Michigan State School of Osteopathic Medicine. He enjoys treating the whole body and has a growing interest in caring for elderly patients. "During the next 20 years there will be a significant challenge to care for our growing baby boomer population on a variety of levels. Therapists with manual skill will greatly aid our aging population live active lives with higher levels of function," he states.
Jay resides in DePere, WI. His wife Marcela holds a degree in early childhood education. Together they have home-schooled their five children, at present two through high school. Jay has also served as a deacon at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Green Bay.
Memberships
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association (WPTA)
McKenzie Institute USA (Credentialed in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy)
Active Location(s): Green Bay OST; Brillion OST; Kaukauna OST; Ladysmith OST