Meet the 2025 Candidates

Dr. James Spencer, DPT, OCS
Profile: I am the current Vice President of APTA Orthopedics, Owner of Ajax Physical Therapy in Aspen, CO (AjaxPT.com), and have served in many roles across APTA, FSBPT, APTA Ortho, and multiple APTA Chapters over the past 20 years. After graduating from Northeastern University in 2006, I spent much of the first 12 years of my career as a traveling PT across 7 states before settling in Colorado. My wife Kate and I run our small practice together as the only physical therapists and treat patients in their homes primarily out of network from insurance. We recently authored an APTA Ortho Independent Study Course, “Orthopedic Management of the Downhill Skier” as a part of the Winter Sports series and have presented ski injury prevention education at the APTA Colorado Annual Conference and to local community and employee groups. I have a passion for making PTs the first providers our communities think for orthopedic pain and for helping individuals avoid surgery.

Statement: Over the past few years APTA Ortho has invested almost $500,000 in the Payment Consortium, partnering with APTA Private Practice, to improve PT/PTA pay and reduce administrative burden. This work has resulted in many wins at the state level and some recent nationwide victories as well. These wins do not come easily and are often hard fought over many years – I look forward to continuing to support the work of this group that is gradually moving the needle on PT payment. At the same time, we are working to provide new Member benefits that aim to provide all that an Ortho PT or PTA needs professionally including online tools for the clinician, new educational products, CEUs to meet your licensure requirements, a new certification to demonstrate your knowledge of CPGs, and new ways to deepen connections with your peers and experts across the profession. I look forward to continuing to work to bring these projects to completion and improve the experience for Members of our organization. Organizational Membership has fundamentally changed in our society, so our organization needs to adapt to provide a valuable, tangible service to our Members while continuing to be the leaders in driving the best conservative musculoskeletal care models. Finally, I’d like to make a challenge to all of our leadership and Members to reach out to the individuals in your life in who want to be involved in something greater than themselves, and pull them up into APTA Ortho and APTA leadership. We need to be obsessive in including every voice and viewpoint we can to have the strongest path forward and the most impact on the challenges we choose to take on. I vow to do all that I can to elevate the Members and Leaders around me to help this organization take impactful actions based on input from a wide variety of voices. Please watch my candidate video for more of my thoughts and thank you for participating in this election and being an actively engaged Member of APTA Ortho.

Pamela Balla Dibblee PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Profile: Pamela Balla Dibblee, PT, DPT, completed her Fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy at Regis University in 2022, is an APTA Orthopedic Certified Specialist, earned her tDPT from Regis University in 2012, and holds a BS in Physical Therapy from the University of Illinois Chicago (1991) and a BS in Biology from the University of Iowa (1989).

Her career at Intermountain Healthcare spans several roles, including staff therapist, clinical manager for several outpatient facilities and now is part of the Internal Process Control for Rehabilitation Services since October 2018.

Pam is member of several professional organizations, including the APTA, Utah Physical Therapy Association, and the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists. Her volunteer experiences include serving on the APTA Total Knee CPG Revision Committee since March 2024, the APTA Health System Steering Committee from September 2020 to 2023, and as Co-Chair of the APTA Health System Subcommittee on Quality from June 2019 to June 2021.

In her current role, Pam focuses on standardization of care, clinical and professional development, and quality improvement. Over the past seven years, she has been involved in implementing best clinical practices at a system level, working closely with the Director of Research for rehabilitation services, Rehabilitation Leadership, Musculoskeletal and Neurosciences clinical programs and front-line managers and staff. Her efforts have included quality initiatives and standardization of care in orthopedic outpatient and home care areas, including the collection of outcomes for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty across the continuum of care. Pam has worked on disseminating information, knowledge translation, and feedback processes for multiple orthopedic conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, conservative shoulder, total knee arthroplasty, patellofemoral pain, and lateral elbow tendinopathy. Standardization of processes and care while decreasing unwarranted variation continues to be a focus embedded within workflows. Pam advocates for clinicians to engage patients in their care and develop their clinical reasoning while utilizing a shared decision-making approach to treatment.

Statement: Serving in this role as Director is a natural extension of my deep commitment to advancing value-based, patient-centered care within orthopedic physical therapy, and I am eager to help lead the Academy as we collectively pursue the 2024-2026 strategic initiatives. I believe the Academy plays a critical role in supporting therapists through dissemination of clinical practice guidelines, fostering professional growth, and ensuring equitable access to resources and education across the specialty. Drawing from my experiences at Intermountain Health, where I have led initiatives to reduce unwarranted variation in orthopedic care and championed evidence-informed practices, I am confident in my ability to influence our community’s adoption of standardized, high-quality care that elevates patient outcomes and stewardship of healthcare resources. I have seen firsthand how empowering therapists with tools for implementation, measurement, and patient engagement can bridge the gap between evidence and practice, yielding measurable improvements for patients, payors, and communities alike. The Academy’s future, in my view, depends on engaging innovation—leveraging technology to support frontline therapists, fostering partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring that knowledge and resources reach every corner of our profession, including underserved areas. My administrative, educational, and clinical experience has given me a holistic perspective; I understand the daily realities therapists face and have a track record of guiding teams toward data-driven, guideline-adherent practice. By nurturing a culture of learning, mentorship, and collaboration, I aim to help the Academy be both agile and visionary—responding to disruptive forces in healthcare, advancing professional leadership, and championing wellness in our communities. It would be a privilege to apply my passion for quality improvement, my dedication to mentoring clinicians, and my experience in multi-faceted partnership-building to further the Academy’s mission, ensuring that our collective work results in sustainable, high-value care for the patients and populations we serve.

Dr. Megan Frazee, PT, DPT, OCS , FAAOMPT
Profile: I am honored to be included on the APTA Orthopedics 2025 Slate of Candidates for the Nominating Committee. I am a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT), currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Physical Therapy Program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha. In this role, I teach content related to orthopedics, pain, clinical reasoning, and manual therapy and serve as the chair of the continuing education committee, organizing several CE courses each year. I am the Residency Director for our Orthopedic Residency Program and maintain a weekly clinical practice, caring for individuals with a variety of orthopedic conditions, integrating this experience into my teaching and professional service. I am an active member of APTA Orthopedics Residency/Fellowship Special Interest Group (ORF-SIG), where I have enjoyed meeting and working with leaders from across the country. Within the Nebraska Chapter of APTA, I currently serve on the Executive Board as the Eastern District Chair and advise the Nebraska Student Special Interest Group, organizing an annual student conclave and educational sessions throughout the year.

Statement: As a candidate for the APTA Orthopedics Nominating Committee, I am motivated by a deep commitment to supporting the development of thoughtful, engaged, and diverse leadership within our Academy. I believe the future strength of APTA Orthopedics lies not only in the expertise of its members, but also in our ability to elevate new voices and perspectives that reflect the full spectrum of our profession. The Nominating Committee plays a crucial role in shaping that future by identifying and encouraging individuals, especially those who may not see themselves as traditional leaders, to step into positions where they can influence change and growth. I bring to this role a strong background in mentorship, leadership development, and organizational collaboration through my work as a faculty member and orthopedic residency director at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, as well as through my service with APTA Nebraska and student-led PT organizations. I view the work of the Nominating Committee as more than filling a slate of candidates—it’s about strategically building the Academy’s future. In that spirit, I will be intentional in identifying individuals who reflect excellence, diverse experiences, and a shared commitment to advancing orthopedic physical therapy. I believe consensus is best built through transparent communication, clear goals, and meaningful engagement, and I will apply these principles in working with fellow committee members to make thoughtful, collaborative decisions. I am excited by the opportunity to serve and to give back to an organization that has profoundly shaped my own growth as a clinician, educator, and leader.

Dr. Carey E. Rothschild, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, CAPP-Pelvic
Profile: Carey E. Rothschild, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CAPP-Pelvic is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of Central Florida. Dr. Rothschild earned a Bachelor of Health Science in Physical Therapy in 1999 from the University of Florida and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Boston University in 2005. She is board-certified in both Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy and holds a Certificate of Advanced Practice in Physical Therapy in Pelvic Health. She became a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner in 2024. Her 25+ years of clinical practice has been in the areas of orthopedics and sports medicine. Her research interests include management of running injuries, conditions of the female athlete, pain science, and menopause. Dr. Rothschild is an avid runner, swimmer, and triathlete having completed numerous races including the Boston Marathon. She has three children who are actively engaged in all sports ranging from soccer, lacrosse, football, volleyball, track, and baseball! She was awarded the James A. Gould Excellence in Teaching Orthopedic Physical Therapy Award in 2022 and the Academy of Sports Physical Therapy’s Excellence in Education Award in 2025. Her professional engagement activities include service on the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) since 2022, Nominating Committee member and chair of APTA Orthopedics’ Pain Special Interest Group, the Chair of APTA Orthopedics' Education Committee’s Educational Content Workgroup, and former Associate Editor and now current Editor of APTA Orthopedics’ Orthopedic Physical Therapy Practice.

Statement: I am eager to continue serving APTA Orthopedics in a broader capacity and believe that the Nominating Committee offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the Academy’s future while building upon my past service. This role aligns with my commitment to supporting the Academy’s mission to be the driving community advancing orthopedic physical therapist practice and to promote its vision of transforming society by optimizing movement and musculoskeletal health. One of the most effective ways to achieve these goals is through the fair and impartial selection of diverse candidates whose perspectives and experiences will strengthen the Academy’s leadership. I am dedicated to contributing to a team that identifies, supports, and promotes individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, clinical experiences, and leadership styles. Through my many years of service within APTA and APTA Orthopedics—including state and national roles—I have built relationships with members across the country. I have had the privilege of serving on the Nominating Committee for the Pain Special Interest Group (SIG), both as a member and chair, where I gained valuable insight into the importance of inclusive, transparent processes in developing future leaders. In addition to nominating work, I have been fortunate to serve APTA Orthopedics as the Associate Editor and now Editor of Orthopedics Physical Therapy Practice, and as Chair of the Education Committee’s Educational Content Workgroup. These roles have strengthened my skills in organization, communication, and collaborative leadership, while deepening my understanding of the Academy’s strategic goals. My passion for leadership development is rooted in my own experience being mentored by leaders who saw potential in me. I now carry that torch by listening to members’ stories, recognizing their unique talents, and encouraging their paths toward service. I believe the future of APTA Orthopedics is bright and filled with opportunity to shape musculoskeletal care in ways that are evidence-informed, inclusive, and forward-thinking. By helping build a strong and representative leadership foundation, I hope to support the Academy’s ongoing efforts to lead innovation, cultivate community, and elevate practice. It would be an honor to serve on the Nominating Committee and help steward the future of APTA Orthopedics.

Dr. Neena Sharma, PT, PhD, CMPT
Profile: I am excited to be slated for the Nominating Committee. I am an Associate Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) where I teach Orthopedic courses in the entry level DPT program. I am also a certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist. I direct Clinical Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Research (CORR) lab. My research interests relate to understanding central pain mechanisms and interventions for low back pain. I have been a member of the APTA since I began practicing 30+ years ago and also an active member of AOPT for 30+ years. Throughout my career, I have mentored graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and colleagues. My responsibilities in the field have been diverse encompassing teaching, clinical practice, research, and serving on/leading various committees. My committee service record is extensive. I was fortunate to serve on the Education Committee of the AOPT from 2008 – 2015 and Nominating Committee Pain SIG for two terms, 2009 – 2015.

Currently, I serve on the Research Committee of the AOPT. I am also a member of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) and their Pain Network Group. At the institutional level, I have chaired Appointment, Promotion, and Tenure Committee, which requires a deep understanding and adherence, to departmental and school-wide promotion and operating policies. Additionally, I have participated in various other committees throughout my academic career. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute further through the Nominating Committee and am committed to bringing my experience, dedication, and passion for advancing our field.

Statement: Although I support all four drivers of the AOPT’s FY2024-2026 Strategic Framework, my skills and interests align with “Excellence of Practice”. The Academy has been a leader in promoting research, supporting the development of the clinical practice guidelines and providing evidence-based educational resources to optimize movement and musculoskeletal health. These initiatives align with my professional values, passion, and dedication. As a clinician-scientist and educator, I strongly believe in advancing research and evidence-based education and practices to provide patient-centric care. Equally important to me is to train the next generation of clinicians with a sense of belonging that translates to quality patient care. I have actively participated and led numerous initiatives related to impact and belonging within the university and the department e.g. developing curricular activities for DPT students to provide equitable and inclusive care.

I am a strong advocate of our professional organization and encourage my students and colleagues to join me. My extensive connections within the academic, clinical, and scientific communities enable me to collaborate effectively with emerging leaders in our profession. Through my daily interactions with students, clinicians, faculty, and researchers, I continuously expand my network and identify individuals who can provide exceptional leadership to the AOPT. Collectively these experiences have prepared me to serve on the Nominating Committee and help the APTA’s Strategic Plan to foster an inclusive organization.

Dr. Joseph Signorino, PT, DPT, DSc, OCS, FAAOMPT
Profile: Dr. Joseph Signorino is a physical therapist, an Assistant Professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University, and faculty with Evidence in Motion. He graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA. He received his Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy from Bellin College in Green Bay, WI. He is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, and is fellowship trained in orthopedic manual physical therapy through Evidence in Motion. He continues to practice weekly at the George Washington University Outpatient Rehabilitation Department in Washington, DC. His primary practice area is in conservative care management for musculoskeletal related issues and persistent pain. His research interests and prior publications align with orthopedic physical therapy practice including conservative care for individuals with hypermobility spectrum disorders. Dr. Signorino’s service to the profession occurs at the National, Academy, and Chapter levels. He is an elected delegate to the Virginia Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association House of Delegates. He is an item writer and reviewer for the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties Specialization Academy of Content Experts - Orthopedics. He also is a reviewer for several journals. Lastly, he is a faculty advisor for the American Physical Therapy Association PT Moves Me program at Shenandoah University.

Statement: I am a vehement advocate for physical therapy. I truly believe physical therapy’s potential is massive, especially for musculoskeletal conservative care. My desire to serve as a member of the nominating committee is to positively impact future leadership within APTA Orthopedics. My participation to recruit and mentor APTA Orthopedics members to run for a leadership position would align with the APTA’s strategic plan to cultivate an organization with diverse and innovative leadership. My potential work as a nominating committee member would align with the strategic goals for APTA Orthopedics to promote excellence in practice. I believe future APTA Orthopedics leadership should foster ongoing professional growth, well-being, diversity, practice consistency, and innovation for orthopedic physical therapists. Additionally, designing initiatives to improve the value of physical therapy services through legislative and advocacy efforts is necessary to improve the professions sustainability and general well-being. My participation in the APTA’s PT Moves Me program offered me the opportunity to spotlight the physical therapy profession to younger and underserved generations. The PT Moves Me program is designed to recruit the next generation of physical therapists and physical therapy assistants while increasing diversity within the entry-level applicant pool and ultimately the profession. My participation within the APTA PT Moves Me program also aligns with the mission, vision, and strategic goals associated with APTA Orthpedics. My role as an elected state delegate opens the opportunities for me to advocate for meaningful change within the physical therapy profession at the federal, state, and local levels. Above all, I am an active clinician practicing weekly in orthopedic patient management. I understand and experience the near-daily challenges physical therapists face. I believe both recent graduates and well as experienced clinicians desire to learn and offer clinical care to promote recovery and wellness for patients. APTA Orthopedics is an entity designed to support the practicing physical therapist with both direct (training) and indirect (advocacy) processes. I wholeheartedly welcome the opportunity to contribute these collective experiences to the APTA Orthopedics nominating committee.