Foothill Ranch Team
Curtis Zakhar, PT, DPT
Clinical Director & Doctor of Physical Therapy
Curtis received his Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of California, Irvine in 2009 and then his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2012 from Western University of Health Sciences. As part of his graduate course work, Curtis completed clinical rotations in an orthopedic outpatient setting working with patients of various ages, injuries, and ability levels including Olympic athletes. He also gained experience working inpatient rehabilitation at Saddleback Hospital in Laguna Hills. During this time, Curtis was present during numerous orthopedic surgeries including shoulder and hand repairs as well as total knee and hip replacements.
Curtis personalizes plan of care specific to his patients and uses a variety of techniques acquired through his education and experience in clinics over the last six years. He focuses on manual therapy and progressive exercise while implementing current techniques as recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association.
Parita Shah, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Parita, originally from Mumbai, India, holds a Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Loma Linda University, California. She also earned an Executive MBA in Healthcare Administration from the University of the Cumberlands. Inspired by a loved one’s successful rehabilitation journey after cancer surgery, Parita dedicated herself to the field of physical therapy.
Specializing in orthopedics, sports therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation, Parita trained in Mulligan’s mobilization with movement (MWM), Clinical Neurodynamics, and Movement Analysis. Her diverse experience ranges from volunteering at marathons for disabled athletes in Mumbai to practicing geriatric rehabilitation in Skilled Nursing/Long-Term Care facilities in the United States. She enjoys working in outpatient settings, treating patients of all ages and injuries. She has worked extensively with high school and recreational athletes to assist with return to sport.
Driven by a passion for continual learning, Parita aims to enhance her expertise in vestibular rehabilitation for treating athletes post-concussion and pursue certification as a strength and conditioning specialist. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking and hiking, aspiring to explore all major national parks and savor moments on trails with breathtaking views.
Heather Hunt, PTA
Physical Therapy Assistant
Heather has been a part of the Intecore Physical Therapy family since 2013. She moved to Orange County, CA just after graduating from the Tarrant County College (Texas) Physical Therapist Assistant program. Prior to pursuing her PTA degree, Heather spent 5 years as a Physical Therapy Aide, specifically in sports medicine and orthopedic clinics.
Heather decided that she wanted to pursue a career in physical therapy as a young teen, this decision was heavily influenced by her experience growing up with two siblings with orthopedic challenges, where she saw first-hand the value and positive effects of physical therapy.
Heather continues with professional development and has attended several continuing education courses, including courses specializing in the care of pregnant and postpartum patients. In her free-time, Heather enjoys cycling, going to the beach, hiking and spending time with her family and young son.
Janie Alvarado
Patient Care Coordinator
Janie has worked in the customer service industry for over 15 years, she began at a sporting goods store in Tustin where she became manager. Janie decided to switch to the medical field after discovering her passion for helping others. Since then she has loved working as a part of the Intecore family for the past 9 years. She loves to see patients who are in pain, gain mobility and strength to be able to get back to life. In her free time, Janie loves volunteering for her local church, spending time with her family, and enjoying exquisite foods and travels.
Amanda Ries
Patient Care Coordinator and Social Media Specialist
Amanda is a South Orange County native and graduate of Cal State Fullerton. She has worked in education and enjoys working at events and weddings in her free time. She loves working with people and enjoys encouraging clients to achieve their goals. In her spare time, she likes spending time at the beach, drawing, crafting, and yoga. She also enjoys trying new restaurants, going to car shows, and volunteering at her church.
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