This past week, Alpine got to represent at the MT State Fund Workmen’s Compensation Conference in Helena. Dr. Samantha Schmidt presented and Dr. David Turlington sat on a panel for upper extremity cases. Great work representing Alpine!
Happy Mother’s Day from Alpine!
Today we celebrate the moms of Alpine and every mother that has made an impact on our lives to get us where we are today. Thank you for all that you do! ❤️
Congrats to our grads Nevaeh, Jonny, and Emily for completing their undergrad studies!
Nevaeh graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Integrative physiology. Jonny graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology with a concentration in human biological sciences and will continue his academic career in PT school at UM. Emily graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience and Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience.
Congrats you guys and many exciting things ahead!
Congratulations to one of our exemplary aides, Jonny Lerner, who is this year’s Declin Ermer Memorial Aide Award recipient. Jonny consistently leads with kindness, respect, professionalism, enthusiasm, and initiative within the clinic every day embodying Declin’s spirit. We are glad that he is continuing his academic career here at UM for PT school and can’t wait to see what great things he accomplishes in the future.
More on the Declin Ermer Memorial Aide Award below:
Alpine Physical Therapy honors Declin Ermer, a former Aide who consistently demonstrated kindness, respect, professionalism, enthusiasm, and initiative within the clinic. He participated regularly in Alpine events, always with a smile on his face. Declin exemplified leadership qualities in the community, at Alpine, and at the University of Montana where he was dedicated to the pursuit of an education in Health and Human Performance. Declin’s goal was to one day become a physical therapist. He tragically lost his life during his final year of college at the University of Montana on November 9, 2022.
The Declin Ermer Memorial Aide Award is $250 award given annually to recognize and support one of our valued aides, like Declin, who help make this world a better place. The intention of the award is to assist with basic academic expenses (i.e. books or fees) in the pursuit of a degree in the field of healthcare.
Congrats to our PT student Jared, from University of Mary, for finishing his last 10 week clinical rotation with David and Colter as his clinical instructors. This one hit close to home as Jared was an aide and clinic assistant at Alpine before starting PT school. We are so excited to see his career begin and wish him best of luck with his Boards exam and graduation!
We have a new face that’s joined our North clinic this April. Please welcome Dr. Brett Ballard DPT, CLT and get to know him below!
Where did you study?
University of Idaho for BS/MS, University of Montana for DPT
What is your why for being a PT?
I hold a fascination with human biomechanics and a desire to teach proper movement patterns as well as a desire to help people to get back to what they love to do.
What about Alpine excites you?
The variety of patients and settings to be able to work in.
What is your favorite type of patient?
Any form of athlete- college, weekend warrior, tactical
What is your superpower?
Adaptability
What is your favorite sport/activity? Why?
Hockey/Archery- I love getting out and exploring, being in nature.
What is your favorite place to be?
Mountains or the beach.
Coffee or tea?
Energy drinks
What could you not live without on an island?
Rum
You can call 406-541-2606 or go online to our website to schedule with Brett today!
While ski season came to a close earlier this month, Alpine made the most of our season pass this year at @discoveryskiarea . Many memories made with our families and now we can look forward to next season of powder!
If you’ve been injured on the job, Montana has passed a bill as of October 2025 to give you direct access to PT. Dr. David Turlington speaks on the improved workers comp system that now incorporates physical therapists as well.
Happy 406 Day!
We are proud to be a locally owned business and serve our community to help Montanans get back to doing what they love and enjoy our beautiful state that we all share. Make sure you get outside on this beautiful day to take in everything this state we call home has to offer. #406day
Interested in joining our team? We’re looking for a Clinic Assistant with a flexible schedule for an estimated 25-40 hours per week. The job entails actively engaging with the superior Office Management and PT team for assistance needed. Maintaining clinic space and supplies for the physical therapists. We’re looking for someone with exceptional communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a positive attitude.
If interested, please email your resume and a cover letter to [email protected]
Dr. Sam Schmidt and Dr. Brace Hayden got to lead an inservice for the Partnership Health Clinic’s dental office. Brace reviewed an integrative PT approach to the importance of assessing and treating orofacial / jaw pain. Sam followed up with some fun and useful mobility exercises to keep dental health professionals feeling and moving better on the job. She demonstrated some great strategies to improve workplace health and reduce injuries.
Last week, Dr. Graham Gage and Dr. Jessica Kehoe took some time Wednesday evening to lead a discussion with a group of Missoula Marathon and Half Marathon training participants. They discussed injury prevention and the benefits of strength training for runners and walkers. They even snuck in a few exercises at the end of their talk!
A tip from the evening: Calf raises are an underrated exercise for all human beings!
Interested in injury prevention for what ever your adventure is? Or curious about strength training? Reach out to any of our clinics, this is our specialty!
