Physical therapist opens doors in Thompson Falls
Connor Gillig is a new physical therapist in Thompson Falls. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
Lured by the mountains and fishing in Montana, and after being offered a position as a physical therapist with Thompson Falls Rehab, a division of Clark Fork Valley Hospital, Connor Gillig has hung his shingle up in the old Subway sandwich shop in Thompson Falls.
Gillig received his doctorate in physical therapy at Midwestern University in Glendale Arizona. He has also provided care in Murray, Utah, and Nampa Idaho to finish his schooling.
Gillig is certified in dry needling, a therapy using a thin needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate muscular and connective tissues for the evaluation and management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments.
“I came and visited in October and fell in love with [the area] and fell in love with the state. I always heard about how beautiful Montana was,” Gillig said.
“Everyone has been so welcoming here whether it’s Plains or Thompson Falls.”
He moved to Thompson Falls with his hiking and fishing partner, Remi, a black labrador retriever.
Gillig works on anything skeletal or muscular as well as balancing issues and neurological problems. He also treats sports injuries. He has experience with shoulder injuries and has a few suggestions for a successful outcome. Listen to your therapist.
“The shoulder is the most mobile joint in your body,” he said. “It is really important after those surgeries to have therapy and progress and protect the surgery site in a safe manner. If you are trying to do normal stuff after surgery, you are most likely going back to your surgeon. Recovery time can take eight to 12 months, depending on the individual.”
Gillig said his goal for the area is, “to stay here, to work here and to improve and help the community.”
“To serve the community, whether it be as a physical therapist or helping out as a soccer fan,” he said. “I would love to do some community outreach with coaching or working with the local high school helping them get ready with games. I want to grow this clinic and make it the spot where people want to come.”
Most of his clients are referrals from surrounding physicians and hospitals. People can contact Thompson Falls Rehab at 406-827-0580. The office is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 1707 Main Street East in Thompson Falls.