Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency

“I have been incredibly fortunate to complete the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital. During my time here, I have developed new clinical skills, strengthened my clinical reasoning, and advanced my practice far beyond what I thought was possible at this stage in my career. The exceptional mentorship and educational opportunities provided throughout the program are truly second to none and have helped shape me into a more confident, knowledgeable, and well rounded physical therapist. What sets this residency apart is the unwavering support from the faculty, mentors, and fellow residents. The program fosters an environment that challenges you to grow while providing the guidance and encouragement needed to succeed. Through diverse clinical experiences, collaborative learning, and regular mentorship, I gained the confidence to manage a range of different cases and diagnoses, no matter the complexity. I am incredibly grateful for the investment this program made in my professional development. I leave residency not only as a stronger clinician but also with lifelong mentors, meaningful friendships, and a passion for continued learning. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Nationwide Children's Orthopedic Residency to anyone looking for a program that will challenge, support, and prepare them to provide exceptional patient care.”

Caitlin O’Donnell, PT, DPT (2025-2026)

“My path to residency looked different than the route most residents take; I worked as a PT for almost 5 years before beginning the program, rather than applying straight out of school. By the time I applied, I had a long list of questions (my own clinical questions as well as questions from patients/families), and I wanted help finding answers that were rooted in current evidence and accessible/meaningful to patients. I was interested in pursuing a clinical specialist certification, and I wanted a structured learning environment to help synthesize all the OCS content, apply it to clinical practice, and brush up on my test-taking skills. I knew that kids aren't just little adults, and I wanted more experience that would allow me to provide the best care for youth athletes and equip them to be healthy adults. I was excited about the idea of working in performing arts rehabilitation, but I needed help figuring out my next steps toward pursuing this dream. Most importantly, I was seeking an environment where I could participate in mentored patient care on a regular basis to refine my clinical decision-making and further develop my hands-on skills. The Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital has provided me with everything I could have hoped for in a residency program and more. In addition to all the things on my "wish list" above, I have gained: a community of clinicians and friends who are always looking to support each other, countless pearls of wisdom from all the informal mentorship that takes place every day, strategies for navigating return to sport when progress doesn't fit neatly into a protocol, a growth mindset that extends beyond my role as a PT, and greater confidence in saying "I don't know yet, but we will figure out a plan" when unfamiliar challenges arise. Completing the Orthopedic Physical Therapy residency at Nationwide Children's has broadened my sense of what is possible in our profession, and the faculty here are the kind of mentors I hope to become one day. I am extremely grateful that I had this opportunity, and I highly recommend Nationwide Children's PT residency to therapists in any stage of their career who are looking to grow both professionally and personally.”

Marissa Nazareno, PT, DPT (2025-2026)

“Participating in this residency program has been such an incredibly rewarding experience. The mentorship, curriculum, and many unique experiences I've had over the past year have completely transformed my clinical reasoning, knowledge, skills, and confidence as a clinician. The blend of orthopedics, sports, and pediatrics in this program prepares you to treat patients across the lifespan and a wide range of ability while also allowing you to really dive into the specifics that make the youth athlete population so unique. This is all made possible by the amazing PT Residency team here at Nationwide Children's who were so supportive throughout the entire journey. It has been such a privilege to learn from and get know this amazing group of people. I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate in this residency program and would absolutely recommend this experience to anyone else looking to take that next step in their physical therapy career.”

Allie Hull, PT, DPT (2024-2025)

“Completing the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital has been an incredible privilege. My journey—from once being a patient to now developing my professional career within this same organization—has been deeply meaningful. Working with such a unique patient population during such pivotal stages of their lives has been one of the most rewarding parts of my experience. The residency is supported by faculty and staff who are not only highly skilled, but also invested in each other’s growth, both professionally and personally. I’ve been given countless opportunities to explore and cultivate my clinical passions within physical therapy. The hospital’s interdisciplinary structure also fosters a collaborative environment, ensuring our patients receive high-quality, consistent care. I’m truly grateful for the chance to grow as a clinician in such a supportive and enriching environment.”

Sydney Fojas, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC (2024-2025)

“Choosing to complete an Orthopedic Residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital has been the best first step in my career as it allowed me to continue to learn and develop as a new clinician. I have always had an interest in treating our youth population, whether an athlete, recreational participant, or a child learning to engage in physical activity, and I chose to pursue residency to improve my skillset in working with this unique population. I was able to partake in one on one mentoring sessions with residency faculty who are experts in their field and who have been able to share their knowledge with me. I expanded my knowledge base with our weekly lectures and research project and challenged my critical thinking skills during Grand Rounds. The residency program was committed to helping me become a better clinician, leader, and presenter, and gave me opportunities to grow in my personal interest areas including throwing athletes, pelvic health physical therapy, and youth physical literacy. Pursuing residency, specifically here at Nationwide Children’s, has helped me to grow into a well-rounded, knowledgeable, and most importantly a more confident clinician.”

Elizabeth Fraas, PT, DPT, OCS (2023-2024)

“I truly loved and cherished my time as one of the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residents at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. It was easily the best decision I could have made after completing PT school and I would choose to do it all over again in a heartbeat. The program offers incredible opportunities to learn and develop your skills as a clinician, speaker, educator, leader, and person. My favorite part about the program is that you can seek out learning and experience in areas that you are passionate about. I chose to spend extra time learning more about isokinetic testing and concussion. The team of mentors that you are surrounded with aide in facilitating your growth as a professional and person with their years of experience and board-certified clinical specialist knowledge.”

Jeffrey Wergin, PT, DPT, OCS (2023-2024)