LEWISTON – Karen Krzywda, MSPT, OCS, was recently certified as a clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.

To obtain board certification, candidates must submit evidence of required clinical practice in a specialty area, and successfully complete a rigorous written examination, which demonstrates specialized knowledge and advanced clinical proficiency in a specialty area of physical therapy practice.

She is one of only 26 physical therapists to be certified in orthopedics in Maine.

Krzywda has taken several courses related to manual therapy, with a focus on spine-related conditions.

Her treatment approach emphasizes hands-on techniques, aquatic therapy and direct patient involvement. She graduated in 1998 from Simmons College in Boston with a master’s degree in physical therapy.

She is co-owner of Head to Toe Physical Therapy, located at the Health Club and Spa, 1977 Lisbon Road.