What is your name?
Melissa Shelton
What is your role at ARC Physical Therapy+?
Lead Therapist, DPT of the Springfield Clinic
What year did you begin working at ARC Physical Therapy+?
2015
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Willard MO, just outside of Springfield.
Where did you go to school?
I did my undergrad and graduate work at Southwest Baptist University where I received a bachelor’s in Athletic Training and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
Who or what inspired you to get into the physical therapy space?
I had an injury at 13 years old and the physical therapist that I saw was amazing and had me back to sport activities within 4 weeks of surgery. It made me think about doing physical therapy when I “grew up.” I had a separate injury at 16 and had a similar, positive experience with a different physical therapist and that solidified my decision to pursue this as a career. And the rest is history!
What do you like most about your work at ARC Physical Therapy+?
I enjoy working with a company who is out to make a difference in the individual lives of people but also the community as a whole by working with employers, health systems, and various charities.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about the body or physical therapy?
I wish people understood that physical therapy is in the business to not only improve your symptoms and functionality, but also equip you with knowledge about how the body works so if something else happens down the line, you’ve been empowered to process what’s going on and do something about it without having to run to professionals instantly. I also wish people would remember that healing takes time and effort. Coming to two hours of therapy a week and expecting to rapidly improve without doing things at home to facilitate that improvement is not the ideal scenario for optimal outcomes.
Are you involved with any outside organizations? If so, what?
I participate in the planning committee for the Springfield Work Comp Coalition which operates with a mission to improve the workers’ compensation process by collaborating, educating and bringing awareness to all matters related to injured worker’s care in the Springfield area. I am also an active member of Freshwater Church serving in the children’s ministry and attending with my family.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend my free time with my family out and about. Going to visit friends and family is what we enjoy most. Outdoor activities like golfing and hiking are some of our favorites. We also LOVE to attend sporting events, whether its minor league baseball in Springfield or the Chiefs AFC Championship game, we love it all!
How do you like to celebrate a win or a good day?
Going out with my family and/or the people that helped make that win possible!
What is your favorite quote or saying?
Always be kind…you never know who lost an argument with a toddler this morning. 🙂
Favorite Sports Team?
Chiefs all the way!
Sweet or salty?
Sweet or Lemon, when in doubt chocolate has healing powers!
Coffee or tea?
Coffee…I might have a problem! 😉
Beach or mountains?
That’s tough…I’m going to say both! 🙂
Go out or stay in?
Go out
