Fusion Physical Therapy Clinical Team

dr. derek saltzman pt,dpt,cscs,cktp

             A native of New Bedford, MA, Derek's undergrad training was done at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT, obtaining a BS in physical therapy in 1996. In 2010 he completed his post graduate work at the Mass General Hospital Institute for Health Professions, obtaining a clinical doctorate in physical therapy.  Derek has also been certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the gold standard for sports and performance training.  In 2012 Derek completed the required training and certification by the KinesioTaping Association International as a Certified KinesioTaping Practitioner.   He has consulted with Head Trainer, Tom Mulligan of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning regarding the integration of functional movement screening into their pre-season protocol.

            His passion for sports, was a driving force in his choice to become a physical therapist.  After playing varsity baseball at New Bedford high school, Derek wanted to pursue a career which would allow him to stay connected with athletic competition. Helping athletes both competitive and recreational get back onto the field was a natural fit.  He continues to be an avid sports fan and now also enjoys coaching his children’s youth sports teams. 

            Derek has extensive experience in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, serving the Southcoast area in clinical physical therapy for nearly 20 years. He has served to help an array of patients of all ages recover from surgical and non-surgical injuries, avoid injury and maintain mobility and function through exercise and advanced therapeutic techniques.  Derek's clinical experience also includes home care physical therapy, personal and sports performance training.

kristen francis pta

             Born and raised in New Bedford, Kristen attained her Bachelors degree in Health Science from Simmons College in Boston.  After spending some time in the rehab clinic, Kristen discovered a passion for the field of Physical Therapy.  She returned to school and completed her training as a Physical Therapist Assistant at New England Institute of Technology in Warwick, RI.  She has been with Fusion Physical Therapy since it's inception, and remains an integral member of the team.  She has received additional training in KinesioTaping and has clinical experience in both Aquatic and Pediatric physical therapy.

             Kristen has been a lifelong athlete.  She was a standout softball and soccer player for New Bedford High School, and went on to play 3 years of collegiate softball at Simmons College.  After finishing her college playing career she moved into the coaching ranks, spending 4 years as a U17 youth softball coach.