As we head into 2026, Release Physical Therapy in Washington DC is proud to reintroduce the exceptional team of physical therapists who make our clinic one of the most trusted and award-winning physical therapy practices in the DC area. We have repeatedly won Best of DC and award for Expertise Best Physical Therapy in Washington, DC.
Release Physical Therapy provides the best in comprehensive, evidence-based treatments and personalized care. Our physical therapists use hands-on techniques and the latest technology to relieve pain, improve function, and enhance overall health and wellness. We work one-on-one with every patient, ensuring individualized treatment plans that align with each person’s unique condition, wellness goals, and fitness level.
Comprehensive Physical Therapy Services at Release PT
Our clinic offers a full range of manual therapy and advanced treatment techniques, allowing us to treat everything from acute injuries to chronic pain and performance goals. Services include:
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Manual therapy and therapeutic exercise
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Cupping therapy
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Focal and radial shockwave therapy **We are the only physical therapy clinic in the DMV that offer true focal shockwave therapy**
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Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
This variety allows our therapists to tailor care precisely to each patient’s needs and deliver lasting results.
Meet Our Physical Therapy Team
Dr. Cari Simon, PT, DPT, CMTPT, ART – Owner of Release PT
Cari is the owner of Release Physical Therapy and a proud mom of two. She is a full-body Active Release Technique (ART) provider and utilizes a wide range of taping methods, including McConnell taping, athletic taping, and Kinesio taping, in addition to Trigger Point Dry Needling Therapy.
She is passionate about helping patients reach their physical goals, while also fostering strong connections within the Washington, DC physical therapy community. Outside the clinic, she enjoys outdoor activities, networking with fellow PTs, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Stephanie Lam, PT, DPT, CMTPT
Stephanie is one of the longest-tenured physical therapists at Release PT, bringing extensive experience across multiple areas of adult orthopedics. Her clinical expertise includes post-surgical rehabilitation, acute sports injury recovery, athletic performance enhancement, and chronic pain management.
In addition to adult orthopedics, she has a strong passion for pediatrics and has treated children of all ages for congenital and developmental conditions. She is highly skilled in manual therapy, dry needling, and utilizes the full range of modalities offered at Release PT.
Outside the clinic, Stephanie enjoys traveling, running marathons, spending time with her dog Arfie, and is excited to compete in the upcoming DC Hyrox race.
Dr. Ethan Gramstad, PT, DPT, CMPTP
A native of the DMV, Ethan brings a strong background in strength training and manual therapy to the Release PT team. After spending time in Colorado, he returned to the DC area and has become a valuable part of the clinic.
He focuses on helping patients achieve their physical goals through individualized exercise programming and dry needling. He finds great satisfaction in guiding patients toward long-term success and improved performance. Feel free to chat with him about his gym routine or his upcoming Hyrox race, as he is also participating in the March DC race.
Dr. Deborah Ajala, PT, DPT, COMT
Deborah has been practicing physical therapy for approximately six years and is a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist with advanced proficiency in dry needling. She prides herself on providing highly individualized care, prioritizing soft tissue health, mobility, and patient comfort.
She is dedicated to creating a welcoming, enjoyable treatment environment where patients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, and participating in church activities.
Dr. Mia Smyser, PT, DPT, COMT, CIDN, Pelvic Health Provider
Dr. Mia Smyser is a native of the DMV and a mom of two who loves being part of the Release PT team. She values the one-on-one treatment model, allowing her to fully assess, treat, and reassess patients at every visit.
She is a certified orthopedic manual therapist and has a strong interest in dry needling and has been expanding her expertise in pelvic floor and pelvic health physical therapy. Outside the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and exercising.
Dr. Sally Sroge, PT, DPT, COMT, MDNC
Dr. Sally Sroge has been practicing physical therapy in Washington, DC for several years, specializing in manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and individualized treatment planning. In 2025, she completed her Clinical Orthopedic Residency with the North American Institute of Manual Therapy (NAIOMT) and earned her Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) credential. She is currently studying for her Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) certification.
Dr. Sroge is also trained in Trigger Point Dry Needling and certified through the Barbell Rehab Method, allowing her to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and strength training. Outside the clinic, she enjoys powerlifting, exploring DC’s food scene, spending time with her partner and their two cats, planning her upcoming wedding, and she is training for a half marathon this spring.
A Physical Therapy Team with Variety, Skill, and Personality
At Release Physical Therapy Washington DC, our strength lies in the diversity of our therapists’ skills, treatment approaches, and personalities. Each clinician is highly trained and brings unique expertise to the table, allowing us to meet the needs of a wide range of patients — from pain relief and rehabilitation to athletic performance and long-term wellness.
Schedule Your Physical Therapy Appointment Today
If you’re looking for expert physical therapy in Washington DC, our team is ready to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.
Schedule your appointment with Release Physical Therapy today and experience the difference of truly personalized care.
