Meet Dr. Stephanie: From Athletic Training to Chiropractic Care at Rapha Chiropractic

Growing Up in North Star, Ohio

Growing up in the small town of North Star, Ohio, I developed an appreciation for community, connection, and the importance of taking care of the people around you. My own experience with chiropractic care began at a young age when I struggled with frequent headaches. After seeing the positive impact chiropractic care had not only on my headaches but also on my overall well-being, I became interested in learning more about the profession and how I could help others experience those same benefits.

A Background in Athletic Training

After graduating from North Star Elementary and Versailles Middle and High Schools, I attended the University of Akron, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training.

During my time there, I had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of athletes, including on-campus football, volleyball, swimming and diving, track, and cross-country. I later worked at Archbishop Hoban High School, where I provided care for athletes participating in football, men’s and women’s soccer, tennis, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, and weightlifting.

Developing a Passion for Rehabilitation

Following my time at Archbishop Hoban, I had the opportunity to work in an outpatient physical therapy clinic, where I gained valuable experience helping patients throughout their rehabilitation, including those recovering from surgery.

This experience further developed my interest in rehabilitation and reinforced the importance of helping patients regain strength, mobility, confidence, and function as they return to their everyday activities.

Becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic

Following my undergraduate education, I continued my education at Logan University, earning my Doctorate in Chiropractic.

While in chiropractic school, I continued to utilize my athletic training background by covering local high school sporting events, including volleyball, basketball, lacrosse, and weekend soccer tournaments throughout the St. Louis area and surrounding communities.

These experiences have helped me become adaptable, comfortable working with a wide range of individuals, and better prepared to meet patients where they are.

A Patient-Centered Approach

My experience working with athletes, as well as patients recovering from injury and surgery, has strongly influenced the way I approach patient care. At the same time, I enjoy working with people of all ages and stages of life.

I believe effective care begins by treating each patient as an active partner in their health. I value respect for each person’s autonomy, clear communication, physical comfort, emotional support, and understanding of their individual goals, needs, and preferences.

A Comprehensive Approach to Care

I enjoy incorporating a variety of approaches into care when appropriate, including chiropractic adjustments, movement and rehabilitation, soft-tissue techniques, and patient education.

I have a particular appreciation for dry needling because of its versatility and the results it can provide. While it shares some similarities with acupuncture, dry needling has a distinct purpose and approach that I enjoy incorporating into a comprehensive plan of care.

Joining the Rapha Chiropractic Team

At Rapha, I hope to contribute to a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable, heard, and supported throughout their healing process.

I am especially passionate about movement, function, and rehabilitation, and I want to help patients stay active and return to the activities they enjoy. I also look forward to continuing to grow professionally and bringing new knowledge and skills into the practice.

What Patients Can Expect

When working with me, patients can expect individualized, patient-centered care that goes beyond simply addressing where they hurt. I take the time to understand each person’s goals, lifestyle, activity level, and the factors that may be contributing to their symptoms.

Whether the goal is returning to a favorite sport, recovering from an injury, maintaining an active lifestyle, or simply moving and feeling better day to day, my goal is to work alongside each patient to create a plan that fits their needs.

Most importantly, I want my patients to feel listened to, supported, and empowered throughout their care. You are more than a diagnosis or a set of symptoms, and I believe your care should reflect that.

I am excited to welcome patients to Rapha Chiropractic and look forward to getting to know you, understanding your goals, and working alongside you to help you move, feel, and live at your best. I look forward to being part of your health journey.

Dr. Stephanie Bechtol