Joshua Tree Landscape

Out of the
shadow of injury

Outdoor climber and blue sky
BACK TO THE
STEP 1: LOOK INTO THE SHADOW

Acknowledge pain and address it to prevent further damage. We’ll begin by assessing your movement, calming your inflammation, and tailoring your recovery plan.


STEP 2: GUIDED RETURN TO SPORT

Meet your body where it’s at. We’ll measure and test your limits as you learn how to train in the presence of injury. Multi-sport training techniques rebalance your routine.


STEP 3: OUT OF THE SHADOW

Continue to deepen your confidence and connection with your body. There is no magic potion — your discipline, consistency, and commitment begin to pay off.


STEP 4: BACK TO JOY

Lose yourself in the love of your sport. You’ve put in the work and it’s now time for the fun. Find yourself letting go of the fear of injury — able to trust both body and mind again.


Start Your Recovery Journey
NOW ACCEPTING

Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice Network, HSA/FSA, Competitive Cash Rates

Meet Kevin

Dr. Kevin Ackermann at the climbing gym

”After my 4th, 5th, and 6th knee surgeries, I was told I would never run or play soccer again. My physical therapist helped me defy the odds, trust my body, and get back to what I love. Now, I help others do the same.”

Dr. Kevin Ackermann specializes in working with rock climbers (from V10 boulderers to those just starting out), lifters, and youth athletes. He completed his doctorate at University of Illinois at Chicago in Physical Therapy, achieving Academic Excellence Award with a 4.0 GPA and his undergrad at Indiana University in Exercise Science. His patient and calculated approach helps each of his athletes build confidence, train in the presence of an injury, and get stronger mentally and physically.

Back to the joy of movement

Kevin cares deeply about his patients. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything and he motivates his patients to work hard while understanding the reality of what they’re dealing with. His knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and experience working with athletes makes him an incredible therapist. He has a knack for safely pushing you to your limits, which is all that you can ask for as an injured athlete who wants to get better.

– Maggie

Soccer player

Kevin and I have worked through a few of my injuries over the years —shoulder, knee, and finger — and each time I come back stronger and stronger. Every session is personalized to my body and my recovery. As part of my care, Kevin developed an adaptive maintenance plan that I can perform while traveling around the world climbing. Kevin has helped me to stay healthier, pull harder, and feel more confident on the wall with each and every move.

- Blase

Climber outside

In June 2024, I had top surgery (a bilateral double mastectomy). I wanted to get back to physical activity as soon as possible post-surgery. Kevin was fantastic in working with me to build up my strength and get back to lifting and climbing as safely and efficiently as possible. From walking me through scar massage to giving me a foundation for shoulder mobility and wrist stability, Kevin has made me the strongest athlete I can be!

– Ari

Climber

I rolled my ankle during a volleyball match with severe swelling and bruising. From the very first appointment, I knew I was in great hands with Kevin. Not only did Kevin help reduce the swelling and pain quickly, but he also worked with me on stability, strength, and confidence so I could safely return to sport. I was back playing stronger and smarter about injury prevention. I can’t recommend Kevin enough!

– Clark

Volleyball

As a recreational athlete who loves climbing and soccer, I’ve faced my share of shoulder and ankle injuries. Working with Kevin has been a game-changer. His knowledge, detailed evaluations, and structured programs gave me the confidence to return to sport stronger than ever. What sets Kevin apart is his ability to adapt my program as my training shifts—whether I’m focusing on climbing one season or soccer the next, he always makes sure my body is prepared and supported.

– Shivani

Boulderer at indoor gym

I initially began seeing Kevin for knee pain, but he worked with me on any number of dings, dents, and full-blown injuries. These ranged from pain in my shoulder, neck, elbow, and knee, as well as a pretty nasty disc injury in my low back. We were able to successfully work through and treat all of these and, more importantly, work through the underlying cause of the problems to prevent reinjury in the future. I find him easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and I truly enjoy our sessions.

– Pat

Powerlifter
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Begin your recovery journey