Head, Neck, Jaw and Voice - Advance Physical Therapy

Debra K. Albrecht, specialist in head and neck pain, grew her interest in this area from her own lifelong passion for dance and performing arts.

With over 30 years of clinical experience as a physical therapist, Debra is skilled in evaluation and treatment of spinal dysfunction, head and neck pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), headaches, orofacial pain, and voice disorders. She utilizes manual therapy techniques, including joint mobilization, visceral and myofascial release to compliment work on postural retraining and functional strengthening.

Early in her career, Debra had the tremendous opportunity to study extensively with the renowned Dr. Mariano Rocabado, DPT, CCTT, a specialist in treatment of the head and neck pain and related TMD. She continued to expand her expertise with course work through The Institute of Physical Art. It was during this period that she began to recognize the importance of visceral myofascial treatment for improving respiratory function, posture, lumbopelvic alignment, and temporomandibular joint function.

Her focus on the biomechanical relationship of head, neck and TMJ, especially in application to voice and airway dysfunctions were enhanced as a Speech/Voice Therapy and Otolaryngology team member for patients following vocal cord surgery. She especially enjoys treating singing performing artists.

Testimonial

(Phil and Molly at) APT changed my life for the better.

— Janet Buehler, Hillsborough, NC

Working with APT has changed my life for the better. I have always been hypermobile, with mild scoliosis. Despite being reasonably fit, once I became 50, I started to have some serious mobility problems due to injuries created by this hypermobility. Suddenly I couldn’t drive or walk without pain, and with 3 sons and an aging mother to care for, this was just not tenable. I first worked with Molly to create a good baseline of stability, but then I wanted to do more, to get stronger to prevent future problems and be generally healthier. But how?

I did not trust just any random gym instructor to show me how to properly lift weights. I knew from past experience that it was critical for me to know exactly how to align myself and engage the correct muscles so as to build up strength safely. Otherwise I’d get injured while attempting to make myself stronger. Most fitness/gym/yoga teachers just do not understand the risks that hypermobility and postural issues can pose. Where could I turn for help?

Enter Phil! I was so relieved to have someone who understood my structural challenges, and who could also coordinate with Molly to create a seamless transition from basic PT into strength training. I have gained a lot of functional strength from working with Phil, and it’s clear he really knows what he is doing. With a good sense of humor, he makes the process fun. I highly recommend Phil to anyone looking to build upon their physical therapy gains from APT or elsewhere, or anyone just wanting to have strength training in an effective, fun, and supportive atmosphere.