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Dawn Thomas, PT

Dawn Thomas, PT, Cert. DN

“My goal is to strive to motivate patients in physical rehabilitation to return to their optimal movement, strength, and function. I focus on educating patients to maintain activity at discharge allowing them to best return to their active lifestyle.”

Dawn Thomas, PT, Cert. DN

Dawn Thomas, PT, Cert. DN

Education

B.S. in Physical Therapy
University of South Alabama

Work History

Dawn began her career as a Physical Therapist in 1990 and has worked in a multitude of settings including the care of adult orthopedic, neurological, and geriatric patients. Prior to joining Baldwin Bone & Joint, her work experience included Providence Hospital, Knollwood Park Hospital, and Thomas Hospital. She is now back in an outpatient orthopedic setting focusing on returning clients to their maximum function.

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Laura Estes, PT

Laura Estes, DPT

“My goal is to be accessible to my patients while educating them continuously throughout the rehab process. I treat each individual patient in a positive, friendly manner.”

Laura Estes, DPT

Laura Estes, DPT

Education

Doctorate of Physical Therapy, 
University of Montana

Rehab Administration Certificate,
University of Montana

Master of Physical Therapy,
University of South Alabama

Bachelor of Pre-Professional Health Sciences,
University of South Alabama

Work History

Laura Estes began her professional career in 2002 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Memorial hospital working in a variety of settings from home health to skilled nursing care to outpatient care. She then transitioned to Southern Illinois Healthcare from 2003 to 2007; and 2016 to 2025. Laura provided outpatient care with a strong focus in orthopedics, neurology, and neurosurgery care. From 2007-2015, she was employed by the Orthopaedic Institute of Southern Illinois – working side by side with well-respected surgeons to assist patients in returning to their best self.

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Michelle Howard Cadden, DPT

Michelle Howard Cadden, DPT, Cert. DN

“I know that going through physical therapy is not always the most pleasant process. I really try to make the experience fun and positive while thinking outside the box for the next potential treatment opportunity.”

Michelle Howard Cadden, DPT, Cert. DN

Michelle Howard Cadden, DPT, Cert. DN

Education

Doctorate of Physical Therapy, 
University of South Alabama (Mobile, AL)

B.S. in Exercise Science,
The University of Mississippi (Oxford, MS)

Work History

Michelle graduated from USA in Mobile and went directly to work for Infirmary Health Services. She worked at all of their different locations and in various settings including acute care, inpatient rehab, long-term acute care, outpatient, skilled nursing, pediatrics, and industrial health. She is now very happy to be in outpatient exclusively here at Baldwin Bone & Joint.
Michelle is originally from Fairhope where she currently resides with her husband, Austin. She enjoys living so close to family and friends.

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Rachael Hartman, DPT, Cert. DN

“I strive to provide each patient with superior quality care in a fun and motivating environment. I focus heavily on patient education. I enjoy getting to know my patients on a personal level and get great satisfaction in following patients’ progress towards their goals.”

Rachael Hartman, DPT, Cert. DN

Rachael Hartman, DPT, Cert. DN

Director of PT Services

Education

Doctorate of Physical Therapy, 
University of Alabama Birmingham 

B.S. in Exercise Science,
Auburn University

Work History

Rachael worked as a clinic director with Encore Rehabilitation from 2008 to 2015 primarily in outpatient PT with strong focus in orthopaedics and sports medicine. This position included working onsite at Spanish Fort High School and Bayside Academy with student athletes. She has worked in a variety of settings including acute care and home health over the south and central Alabama regions. She works part-time at Thomas Hospital acute care.

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