Matthew Barnes, PT, MSPT, Owner

Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist

Matthew graduated in 2003 with a Masters in Physical Therapy from Wheeling Jesuit University. He has expanded his knowledge through extensive continuing education and completed the requirements to become a Board Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) under the APTA. He has also undergone specialized training under Kinetacore to become certified in Trigger Point Dry Needling (Levels I and II). Prior to starting Optimal Motion, Matt worked in a variety of settings, including hospital, home health, acute rehab and outpatient, gaining valuable experience in neurologic, orthopaedic and rehabilitative medicine.

Matt has brought his enthusiasm and insight for running and running-related injuries to Optimal Motion. He has formed the Running Rehabilitation and Gait Lab at the Herndon Clinic. Along with treating a variety of running-related injuries, Matt offers a comprehensive 2-hour musculoskeletal assessment and video gait analysis for injury prevention and performance improvement. He is also a Level 2 Certified Running Coach (RRCA).

Matt’s physical therapy interests also include slow to recover concussion rehabilitation, sports medicine, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He believes in an individualized approach for each patient that is geared toward that patient’s goals. He continues his focus on continuing education for the advancement of manual skills, current concepts in running medicine, evidence-based medicine and current concepts in rehabilitation. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Virginia Physical Therapy Association (VPTA), Orthopaedic and Sports Sections of the APTA, and the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA).

When not at the office, Matt enjoys spending his time with his wife and two daughters, competing in running and triathlon events, and barbershop singing.