Kris Carlson, PT

Kris graduated from the University of Montana with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy in 1989. Prior to this, she attended Montana State University from 1983 through 1987, where she was majoring in physical education with a sports medicine option.

Kris began her physical therapy career in Bellingham at St. Joseph Hospital, where she rotated through all rehab settings; working with both neurological and orthopedic patients in acute care, inpatient rehab, and outpatient clinic settings. She then worked for a home health agency, followed by a private practice orthopedic clinic. Kris joined the team at Bellingham Physical Therapy in 1998. She has been a member of the American Physical Therapy Association since 1987, and has participated in chapter meetings and committees.

Variety is the spice of work for Kris, and she enjoys treating a wide range of patients with orthopedic issues. She uses an integrated, holistic approach to create a course of treatment that addresses the needs of each individual. She combines manual therapy techniques with therapeutic exercise and movement reeducation. She loves helping a patient find the tools for self-management of symptoms, enabling them to play an active role in their rehab process.

Kris’ continuing education includes manual therapy techniques for mobilization of joints, soft tissue, and neural systems; osteopathic muscle energy technique; and strain-counterstrain. She has taken courses on muscle imbalances and movement disorders, using the principles of Shirley Sahrmann; Feldenkrais’ movement dynamics and motor control; running mechanics and injury rehabilitation. Her coursework has encompassed treatment of the spine, pelvic girdle, specific joints and extremities; and geriatric orthopedics. Kris has been a student of Iyengar Yoga for over 15 years, and delights in integrating the “gems of yoga wisdom” into her physical therapy practice.

Growing up in Alaska, Kris developed a love for outdoor activity. She now finds happiness in sharing outdoor pursuits with her husband Dean Bumstead, and their young son Devon. Her passions include gardening, running, cross-country skiing, sea kayaking, hiking, and backpacking. Motherhood has been a bright spark in her life.

To everything there is a season. Life is dynamic, forever changing.