Dr. Amber R.Z. Astafan, PT, DPT, Certified MDT, Owner

I have now had the privilege of practicing and serving the community members of Lewis County and surrounding areas for over ten years! In that time, I am proud that Journey has developed into a clinic that not only provides Physical Therapy services for hundreds of people every year, but an organization that can give back. We have been able to spend time aiding in career development with school systems. Our providers participate in the local Career Day events and host numerous students from high school and collegiate levels in the clinic. In 2023 we became a host site for the American Red Cross and hosted our first blood drive! Each year, the clinic sponsors teams for the Lowville Youth Soccer, several golf outings for various fundraisers and donates to scholarship programs.

Over the past 10 years I have been able to develop my skills as a provider that's committed to excellence. Several years ago, I became the first Certified McKenzie Method Provider in Lewis County. This method is widely know for spinal treatment of low back pain. However, it's actual focus is on Mechanical Diagnosis and Treatment through research for all joints! I have completed all course work available in this Method that is utilized internationally.

Personally, my husband and I are blessed with 2 daughters that attend Lowville Academy. I must admit wearing red is difficult for me, as I was a Beaver River graduate! I have always loved athletics, playing several sports in school and even in college. In high school, I sustained a knee injury with torn ACL and medial meniscus, requiring surgery. This is what ultimately led me to the profession of Physical Therapy! As a mother, organized team sports are difficult to be a part of due to schedule and time restraints. So, I took on competitive body building in 2022. I can train locally on my own time and compete in New York State. I am blessed to have won a 1st place Pro Card for woman over 35 years old in an all-natural organization for my first competition. I have since competed 2 more times.

I look forward to what the next decade holds for myself, as a provider and community member, and Journey PT as a local staple for quality medical services. I am very thankful for all the community members that put their trust in us for their care. The health status of an individual's physical mobility impacts ALL aspects of their life! The Journey Staff and I will continue to strive towards excellence in knowledge and servitude.

Education

• Clarkson University: Doctorate of Physical Therapy 2011
• Bachelors of Science, Biology with Distinction 2008
  • Minor in Cognitive Neuroscience
• Beaver River Central School 2005
• Certified Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy 2018

Organization Involvement

• American Physical Therapy Association: 2008-2015
  • Orthopedic Section: 2011-2013
  • Aquatics Section: 2012-2013
• NY Physical Therapy Association: 2008-Present
• The Mckenzie Institute USA
  • 2016-present