Dr. David Pavao PT, DPT, Board‑Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy serves as Highbar's Clinical Officer. Dr. Pavao specializes in manual therapy, acute and chronic spine pain, headaches, sports injuries, TMJ, and vertigo. In his role as Clinical Officer, Dave oversees the professional development of clinical staff, which includes the Highbar Student Curriculum, the Mentoring for Highbar onboarding program, and the Highbar Orthopedic Residency, as well as in-house continuing education to ensure our clinical team and patients have an exceptional experience at Highbar.

He is currently an adjunct professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at his alma mater, where he earned the Academic Excellence Award as a student and the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2013. Dave also serves on the Legislative Committee of the Rhode Island American Physical Therapy Association.

When Dave isn’t treating patients or ensuring that all clinical staff at Highbar are staying up to date on current clinical standards, he loves spending time with his wife Michelle and his two children, Aiden and Grace. He likes to stay active by playing soccer and tennis and coaching Aidan's soccer team.

Undergraduate Degree and Physical Therapy Degree:

University of Rhode Island – B.S. Exercise Science

University of Rhode Island – Doctor of Physical Therapy, 2009

Evidence in Motion Institute of Health Professions - Orthopedic Residency, 2012

Certifications:

Board‑Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy

Professional Affiliations:

American Physical Therapy Association

American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy

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