Rock Valley Physical Therapy features knowledgeable, compassionate, and patient-first therapists at every turn.
Each brings an amazing set of skills and talents to the table.
One of those gifted therapists is Rock Valley’s Erich Ottervanger, PT, DPT, part of a select group of therapists that treat Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Each type of EDS has its own set of features with distinct diagnostic criteria. Some are seen across all types of EDS, including joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility.
“Ehlers Danlos Syndrome is a group of 13 heritable connective tissue disorders,’’ said Ottervanger, who earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sports Science from Loras College, then received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Des Moines University.
The founder of West Des Moines (Iowa) Physical Therapy and Pleasant Hill Physical Therapy, respectively, Ottervanger recently joined the Rock Valley family.
In March (2024), those two clinics, located at 3701 E.P. True Parkway, Suite 300, West Des Moines, Iowa, and at 1280 Copper Creek Drive, Pleasant Hill, Iowa, respectively, began to fly the Rock Valley Physical Therapy flag.
Research shows EDS causes a genetic mutation to connective tissue or collagen, and features symptoms of joint hypermobility, skin hyper-extensibility, and tissue fragility. EDS is a spectrum disorder, meaning that no two people that have this syndrome look the same, and severity associated on an individualized level can vary from patient to patient.
Ottervanger says EDS is a lifelong condition, and symptoms can run a variety of ways for those afflicted. Compassion, care and knowledge are paramount in treating EDS.
“Our job as physical therapists are to meet these people where they are in their symptoms and functional level, show them safe body mechanics, manage soft-tissue injuries, and teach a gentle joint stabilization program,’’ Ottervanger said. “Some of our manual skills are appropriate for this population, but some are not as they are too aggressive. I take a gentler approach with these patients.’’
Understanding and treating EDS is an ongoing challenge, one Ottervanger welcomes. He also notes that treatment inroads continue to be made regarding EDS.
“A lot of research has come out on this condition, just in the last 5-to-10 years, and more advocacy and educational efforts have been more prevalent in recent years,’’ added Ottervanger. “These patients will need physical therapy from time-to-time to manage issues/injuries that pop up. We, as physical therapists, are in a great position to assist these patients.’’
An open house celebrating two valued clinics now working under the Rock Valley umbrella is slated for Thursday, May 9, from 5-7 p.m. at the EP True clinic. The day will give community members an opportunity to meet Rock Valley therapists, learn about the many specialties offered and share in enjoyable conversation.
Ottervanger, ever-dedicated to “Making Better Lives,’’ says he is looking forward to being part of the Rock Valley family.
“What has impressed me most about Rock Valley Physical Therapy is the high-quality people I have met,’’ Ottervanger said. “I also have been highly impressed with a clear message of who Rock Valley is, and what it stands for, quality patient care, high ethical standards, and a rewarding work environment where people can feel valued.’’
By: Johnny Marx, Rock Valley Storyteller