Articles & News
Steve Cassabaum, MSPT,DPT is 21st Century Rehab’s first Post Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate!
On May 15th, 2009, President and Founder, Steve Cassabaum became the first of 21st Century Rehab’s therapist to receive his post professional DPT from Washington University in St. Louis. 21st Century Rehab has made a commitment to the of physical therapy profession by providing the opportunity for therapists to obtain their Post Professional Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
“This accomplishment could not have come at a better time,” commented Steve Cassabaum, “it has been 20 years to the week since I graduated with my Masters from Washington University’s Physical Therapy program.” The Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis is one of the most respected physical therapy programs in the United States. Their primary focus on the advancement of diagnoses related to movement dysfunction as a basis for choosing among management options is why 21st Century Rehab has committed to sending its therapist to Washington University for their continued education.
Currently, 21st Century Rehab has six other therapists enrolled in the Post Professional DPT program at Washington University and will add a seventh this fall.
Steve Cassabaum, MSPT, DPT and Tracy Porter, MSPT prepare for 24th Annual American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Conference
May 19, 2009 – Steve Cassabaum, MSPT, DPT and Tracy Porter, MSPT, of 21st Century Rehab, P.C. will be speaking at the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) 24th Annual National Conference at the Gaylord Opryland Conference Center, June 19-21, in Nashville, Tennessee.
Cassabaum and Porter will be presenting to an audience of nurse practitioners about Sports Medicine Injuries and Diagnosis. The workshop will focus on helping nurse practitioners learn to evaluate and assess common sports injuries from head to toe. The participants will also be trained on specific tests for each joint and body area.
This is the fifth consecutive year that 21st Century Rehab has been asked to present at the AANP conference.
21st Century Rehab announces new clinic opening in Carlisle!
(May 2008) – 21st Century Rehab, PC is pleased to announce the opening of their newest clinic in Carlisle. They are located next to SNAP Fitness at 125 North 1st Street. The decision to open at this particular location in Carlisle was due in large part because of the relationship formed with SNAP Fitness. “It makes perfect sense to have these two businesses together because we hope to serve a lot of the same clients” stated Steve Cassabaum, owner and physical therapist at 21st Century Rehab, PC. “Both businesses strive to improve the health and well-being of their clients so the relatioship is a natural cooperative.”
21st Century Rehab, PC believes that all people of Iowa should have local access to basic health services and therapy is no exception. Carlisle is fortunate to have access to quality services and believe therapy will be a great compliment to the great healthcare and sense of community that is currently being provided to the residents of Carlisle. It will be convenient for people to stay in Carlisle for therapy versus driving all the way into Des Moines. Patients should always be aware that they have a choice in their therapy provider. We always strive to provide high quality one on one therapy to our patients and work on helping the community through our involvement in the Chamber, school, and local civic groups.
The clinic will initially be primarily staffed by Steve Cassabaum who is the president and owner of 21st Century Rehab, PC. Initially the hours of operation will be Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 to 4:00 and Friday’s 1:00 to 4:00 and by appointment. 21st Century Rehab plans to find the perfect fit of a permanent clinic director who will reside in the community and staff he clinic full time.
Steve has almost 20 years of physical therapy experience and obtained both his B.S. and M.S. in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis after finishing his undergraduate degree at Wartburg College. Steve also is on track to graduate with his post-professional, Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Washington University in 2008-09. Originally from New Sharon, Iowa, Steve practiced in St. Louis from 1989 to 1995 primarily in outpatient orthopaedics with a specialty in TMJ, facial pain and chronic pain physical therapy. In 1995 Steve and his wife, Michelle moved back to Iowa and started 21st Century Rehab, which provides physical, occupational, and speech therapies in 9 different communities throughout central Iowa, including four county hospitals and 5 free-standing private clinics in Altoona, Grimes, Indianola and Madrid and now Carlisle. 21st also provides athletic and sports coverage to eight central Iowa high schools as well as occupational medicine services to many community businesses.
“We have been so welcomed to Carlisle by its businesses and residents and look forward to being a strong community member for a long time."
Be well. 21st Century Rehab, PC Launches Corporate Wellness Program
(October 2007) –Many businesses and organizations have recognized the value of healthy employees. At least 25% of a company’s healthcare costs are attributed to modifiable health risks such as employee’s poor diet and lack of exercise. Studies have shown for every $1 the average company spends on worksite wellness programs, it receives an average net benefit of $3.40 to $7.88.
Companies that have a worksite wellness program can expect reductions in healthcare costs; will have a reduction in short term sick leave; and experience increased productivity. Employees will reduce their risk of premature death, reduce their risk of disease, reduce or control blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduce or maintain body weight and/or fat. The Employee will build and maintain healthy muscles, bones and joints which will in turn enhance their work, recreation, and sport performance. By reducing depression and anxiety, the employee will improve their psychological well being.
Last year 21st Century Rehab partnered up with Lighten Up Iowa to springboard their corporate wellness program. This year we are celebrating our first annual Employee Wellness Day to encourage our employees to Be well. If you are interested in finding out more about our program or would like information about how we can help you or your organization Be well. Please click here to email us your contact information or call us at 1-877-21REHAB.
Nevada Physical Therapist, Steve Cassabaum, Receives 2007 Outstanding Alumni Award from Washington University
September 27, 2007 – Nevada physical therapist, Steve Cassabaum, MSPT was awarded the 2007 Outstanding Alumni Award from Washington University’s Program in Physical Therapy on September 15, 2007. This award is given to former graduates of the program.
Steve graduated from Washington University in 1989 with a Masters of Physical Therapy and is currently enrolled in the Doctorate of Physical Therapy curriculum and will graduate in 2008. Cited at the award presentation were Steve’s extensive community and church involvement as well as his commitment to the profession of physical therapy by promoting the DPT status for all physical therapists. Steve’s commitment includes paying for all his physical therapy staff to receive their Doctorate of Physical Therapy Degrees. 21st Century Rehab’s physical therapy staff are also 100% members of the APTA – American Physical Therapy Association.
Jason Horras, Vice President for 21st Century Rehab, PC named to Iowa Illinois Safety Council Board of Directors
April 2007 - Jason Horras, MPT is named to Iowa-Illinois Safety Council Board of Directors for 2007-2008. Jason is the Vice President for 21st Century Rehab, PC and is certified in Isernhagen Work Systems’ Work Injury Management Programs, is a certified occupational hearing conservationist and is also certified in DOT drug collection and testing.
The Iowa Illinois Safety Council is a not-for-profit organization supported by its 1200 members that provides a wide variety of safety information, seminars, and services to members in an effort to reduce accidents or injuries and the extraordinary costs associated with them. IISC is here to help business and industry with their safety, health, and environmental programs; for both on the job and off the job. IISC is one of the few resource organizations that will help you comply with the law and guidelines and keep you up to speed on new and changing regulations.
21st Century Rehab recently joined the Iowa-Illinois Safety Council in a united effort to reduce injuries and illnesses that cost employers millions of dollars in lost time and benefits each year.
21st Century Rehab, an Iowa-based company, offers comprehensive and customized occupational medicine and rehabilitation services aimed to save companies time, injuries and money. We tailor our Occupational Health Services to each client company’s needs and regulatory constraints. Through our specialized programs and services, work-related injuries can be reduced and their financial impact lessoned.
At 21st Century Rehab, an experienced, professional team of licensed physical and occupational therapists work together to develop a rehab program based on an analysis of the worker’s job and injury. Utilizing the Isernhagen Work System (IWS) program, 21st Century Rehab is able to deliver injury prevention, workers compensation management and early intervention stay-at-work/return-to-work programs that help employers retain a competitive edge. 21st Century Rehab uses a proactive approach with focus on great communication and customer service and currently provides these injury prevention tools to many businesses.
21st Century Rehab is fully equipped to handle all types of industrial injuries and is the one-stop solution for the following rehab services:
- Functional Capacity Evaluations: This comprehensive, work-related test assesses an individual’s physical ability to do a specific job or activity and aids in developing safe return-to-work program
- Functional Job Analysis: After an assessment of work, worker, and the work site, employers are provided with guidelines for safety and recommendations on new work area designs and adaptive equipment, as well as design and validation of job descriptions.
- Pre-work Screening: ADA compliant screening insures a match between the worker and work. It provides specific correlations between job demands and an applicant’s physical abilities.
- Ergonomic Training: Employers are given direction on establishing an ergonomics team or program. Recommendations for making the work environment safer and the work more productive are provided. Assessment of worker’s abilities with special attention to anthropometrics.
- Injury Preventative Education: Safety education programs empower employees to understand and solve problems. Educational presentation topics include: work site stretching, back safety, and cumulative trauma prevention. Programs can be customized for the intended audience.
- Substance Abuse Drug Tests and Audiometric Hearing Tests
April is National Occupational Therapy Month: A Profession that Focuses on Life Skills
April 2, 2007 – In celebration of National Occupational Therapy Month, the occupational therapists with 21st Century Rehab would like to educate you on the profession that focuses on life skills.
For millions of people, the service of occupational therapy is a lifeline. People of all ages receive it to help them participate in the activities of their daily life. Sometimes people need occupational therapy to do things we take for granted: like getting dressed, being productive at school or work, eating unassisted, or even socializing.
Occupational therapy doesn’t just treat medical conditions, it helps people stay engaged in the activities that give them pleasure or a sense of purpose, despite challenges. Occupational therapists do this by helping people surmount their disabilities or medical conditions to do everyday things. The nature of the therapy depends on the individual and their environment; occupational therapists consider the whole person when developing a therapy plan. Occupational therapists collaborate with physicians and other professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach.
The occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants at 21st Century Rehab help adults learn or regain skills that allow them to do meaningful things like working, driving, shopping, and even preparing a meal. All types of people need this kind of help everyday, from a worker injured on the job to a grandparent recovering from surgery or a stroke.
21st Century Rehab Wants You to Spring into Fitness
March 27, 2007 – There’s nothing like a beautiful spring day to get outdoors and take advantage of activities like riding a bike, taking a walk, or even catching up on outdoor home repairs. It can also be time to start something new for ourselves like beginning an exercise/fitness program to improve your health or lose those extra pounds we gained in the winter months.
Regular physical activity is essential for good health and can reduce the risk of premature death, heart disease, stroke or even cancer. It also helps prevent or lessen the severity of osteoporosis, musculoskeletal problems and fall-related injuries.
Problems can arise, however, if your idea of winter exercise consisted of watching TV or taking out the trash. Too often, people jump into physical activities without taking the necessary steps to prepare their body for the activity.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before starting an exercise program or heading outdoors:
- Wear the Right Shoes. It’s important to make sure your shoes fit right, are comfortable and provide the support and stability needed for any activity you are involved in.
- Warming Up and Cooling Down. Warming up before exercising and cooling down afterward can help prevent injury, especially if the activity or exercise program is vigorous.
- If You Are Overweight. Consider beginning with low-impact activities such swimming, cycling or walking. These activities put less strain on joints. Also, don’t stop exercising because you don’t lose weight, these are many health-related benefits associated with physical activity even when weight loss doesn’t occur.
- Types of Activities. Don’t limit yourself when it comes to getting in shape. A number of different activities count as exercising such as gardening, mowing the lawn, and using the stairs at work.
- Pace Yourself. Do too much your first time out, and you are more likely to injure yourself. The longer since you’ve done the activity, the longer it will take to get into the full swing of things.
- Drink Lots of Fluids. Staying hydrated and drinking lots of fluids keeps your body at its best.
Physical therapists realize that each individual is unique, and can develop specific methods to determine how fit you are, and what types of activities your body can handle. By taking the time to talk to a physical therapist, you can get a personalized conditioning program that if followed properly: will help prevent injury, promote fitness and get the most out of those physical activities you enjoy.
21st Century Rehab invites you to call any of our locations and see how we can help you get back to optimal health!
Nevada Physical Therapist, Steve Cassabaum, Completes Course to Improve Clinical Decision Making Using Research Literature
(January 2007) - Nevada physical therapist, Steve Cassabaum, MSPT recently completed the course “Evidence Analysis and Synthesis” from Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, September 6 – December 20, 2006.
The focus of this class was to improve clinical decision making via use of research literature. The course promoted using critical analysis of research literature that can then be applied to practice situations. Cassabaum’s project in the class focused on the question: “What’s the efficacy of physical therapy in the treatment of TMJ disorders?” During his research analysis, Cassabaum discovered many more treatment options for people having facial and jaw pain.
This is Cassabaum’s 5th class of 8 needed to achieve a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree. The course will help Cassabaum improve clinical decision making for patients with any diagnosis or problems.
October is National Physical Therapy Month: 21st Century Rehab Suggests Four Fun Tips for Fall Fitness
(October 2006) - In celebration of National Physical Therapy Month, the physical therapists at 21st Century Rehab encourage you to add a daily workout to your routine. Here are four tips for making fall a fit season:
1. Time, or the lack of it, is often cited as the biggest challenge to sustaining an exercise regimen. With the kids in school, what better way to use some of that precious time than getting in shape? Your workout doesn’t have to take a lot of time; a half hour walking around your neighborhood pays off in increased energy and stamina. Most gym fitness classes are just an hour long, yet offer huge dividends.
2. Enjoy the year’s most beautiful season. With fall’s sunny days and cool evenings, and postcard perfect colors – get outside and enjoy the season by bicycling, walking, hiking, jogging, or playing golf and tennis. The time spent out in nature will do as much good for your mind as for your body.
3. Return to your health club or gym: It takes 30 days to make fitness a habit, and supplementing outdoor exercise with increased visits to your health club will help diversify your exercise regimen and keep you motivated. And, while aerobic activity such as running or bicycling is good for your heart, resistance training is also a critical component of a balanced program. Be sure to take advantage of your club’s weight lifting equipment.
4. Make it social: One of the great things about exercise is that it doesn’t need to be done alone. Find a friend with similar fitness level and goals: having a partner helps you both stay motivated. You can use your exercise time to catch up on each other’s lives. Boredom is the number one killer of good health and fitness regimens. Exercising with a friend puts the fun back into your workout.
To assist with your healthy lifestyle, 21st Century Rehab offers Fitness and Wellness Programs. Each individual that participates in the fitness/wellness programs will work with a licensed physical therapist or certified athletic trainer and can choose from programs that range from 6-24 sessions. Each program will include overall lifestyle modifications to achieve personal fitness, weight loss, strength, flexibility, and improved balance and is personalized to the participant’s desired outcome.
21st Century Rehab Hosts Open House in Madrid on Tuesday, August 8th
(August 2006) 21st Century Rehab in Madrid will be holding an open house celebration on Tuesday, August 8th from 11 AM - 2 PM at 209 W. 2nd Street in Madrid. 21st Century Rehab welcomes everyone to come by, take a tour of the facility, enjoy some refreshments and meet the staff.
The Madrid clinic opened its doors on January 2, 2006, and offers full service physical therapy, athletic training, and occupational health services.
U.S. Congressman Tom Latham Visits 21st Century Rehab's Nevada Clinic!
Steve Cassabaum, MSPT, President of 21st Century Rehab, shows US Congressman Tom Latham how the Kin-Com, a computer integrated isokinetic exercise device, operates. Latham and Iowa Senate candidate Jim Kurtenbach visited Story County Medical Center on July 5th.
21st Century Rehab Physical Therapists Speak at the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners 21st Annual Conference
(June 2006) Steve Cassabaum, MSPT and Jason Horras, MPT, of 21st Century Rehab, P.C. spoke at the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) 21st annual national conference at the Gayload Texan Resort & Convention Center, June 20-24, in Grapevine, Texas.
Cassabaum and Horras spoke to an audience of nurse practitioners in two different workshop settings. The first class, Ergonomics Workshop: Evaluation and Prevention, focused on understanding ergonomics and how to put it into practice to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain, shoulder strain, vibratory syndrome and other injures. The workshop also taught what to look for when assessing the job site and what recommendations to make to clients and patients.
The second class Cassabaum and Horras taught was Sports Medicine Workshop. In this class, nurse practitioners learned to evaluate and assess common sports injuries from head to toe. Each participant was also trained to learn specific tests for each joint and body area.
21st Century Rehab Expands Services by Offering New Wellness and Fitness Programs
Click here to download brochure
(May 2006) 21st Century Rehab announced today that it will offer fitness and wellness services at its outpatient clinics in Altoona, Grimes, Indianola, and Madrid. The new services include individualized fitness programs that are available to the general public.
Each individual that participates in the fitness/wellness programs will work with a licensed physical therapist or certified athletic trainer and can choose from programs that range from 6-24 sessions. Each program will include overall lifestyle modifications to achieve personal fitness, weight loss, strength, flexibility, and improved balance and is personalized to the participant’s desired outcome.
“21st Century Rehab considers fitness and wellness a part of its mission in keeping people healthy,” said Steve Cassabaum, owner of 21st Century Rehab. “The additional offerings will be one more way that 21st Century Rehab can serve its clients.”
The company currently provides physical and occupational therapy, as well as athletic training and occupational health services to the communities it serves. The new fitness and wellness programs are an additional service catered toward people who want to gain knowledge to incorporate essential physical activities into their daily lives.
21st Century Rehab believes that it can offer an alternative to fitness clubs and gyms by providing a comfortable and individualized environment. The service is available to anyone who wants to take the steps toward better fitness but doesn’t want to do it on his/her own.
For more information on these exciting programs, click here to download the brochure and contact any one of our outpatient clinics to get started.
21st Century Rehab Physical Therapists Attend Advanced Educational Course on Movement System Impairments
(May 2006) 21st Century Rehab physical therapists recently attended a two-day continuing education course “Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement System Impairment Syndromes.” The course was offered in Ames as part of the 2006 Spring Conference of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association & Foundation.
The focus of this course was on the concepts and principles associated with movement system impairments (MSI) and their role in the mechanical musculoskeletal pain syndromes. This course will provide the physical therapists with the tools to identify movement imbalances, establish the appropriate diagnosis, and develop a corrective exercise prescription and carefully instruct his patients how to carry out the exercise program.
21st Century Rehab Opens New Clinic in Madrid
(January 2006) 21st Century Rehab, P.C. is pleased to announce the opening of a new outpatient physical therapy clinic on January 3, 2006 in Madrid. Located at 209 W. 2nd Street (right next door to Dr. Paul Peters’ office), the clinic is the latest in 21st Century Rehab’s efforts to improve access and convenience for patients needing physical therapy in the central Iowa area since the company’s conception in 1995. The Madrid clinic joins other locations in Altoona, Grimes, Indianola, Nevada, Perry and Webster City.
Heading the opening of the Madrid clinic is physical therapist and athletic trainer, Brant Reyerson, MPT, CSCS, LAT. Brant received his Master of Physical Therapy from Des Moines University and has been providing patient services at the Altoona location and athletic training to Bondurant Farrar High School since he joined the company in 2004.
Brant will provide treatment for the following injuries: back, neck, and shoulder pain; hip knee, ankle and foot pain; TMJ disorders, headaches, or facial pain; arm, wrist or hand problems; carpal tunnel syndrome; pain and dysfunction related to arthritis; balance impairments or vertigo; post-surgical rehabilitation; athletic injuries; and occupational health.
21st Century Rehab
209 W. 2nd Street
Madrid, IA 50156
Ph: 515-795-2427
Fax: 515-795-2482
21st Century Rehab Physical Therapists Speak on the Importance of Keeping Workers Healthy and Productive
Nevada physical therapists, Steve Cassabaum, MSPT and Jason Horras, MPT, of 21st Century Rehab, P.C. spoke at a Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) meeting in Des Moines on January 18, 2006.
Cassabaum and Horras spoke to the CFMA members about the Proactive Approach to Reducing Workplace Injuries: Screening and Prevention. Their presentation focused on the importance of keeping workers healthy and productive, which is essential to keep down the escalating costs of workers compensation and health insurance premiums.
Cassabaum and Horras said the best approach to workplace health intervention is the Isernhagen Work System program. Through this program, which 21st Century Rehab utilizes, professional therapists are able to partner with the company to design, implement and improve workers’ compensation program with services that include: pre-work screening, job description and analysis, stay-at-work/return-to-work programs, and job matching systems.