Doug Merz, RPT is owner and president of Merz, Inc. which has provided Physical Therapy services to The Marsh and its surrounding community since 1994. Doug has been practicing since 1985. He has many years clinical experience in an outpatient orthopedic environment and specializes in acute biomechanical assessment and prescription of safe, effective therapeutic exercise protocols to help patients manage their conditions independently. He draws heavily on osteopathic principles for evaluation and treatment and utilizes Iyengar based yoga with many of his patients to help them remain actively involved with their health care maintenance.
Doug has developed a special interest in the ankle/foot complex and its influence on the lower kinetic chain. He provides consultation services to Physical Therapists and clinics in the Metro area regarding this complex and its evaluation and treatment.
The unique environment and resources afforded by his affiliation with The Marsh has allowed Doug to develop an active network of alternative medical practitioners in the Metro area to help meet the needs of those suffering from chronic conditions including fibromyalgia, neck and back pain, and disorders related to arthritis and other debilitating diseases.
Pre-Physical Therapy experience includes two years in the Peace Corps in Honduras and five years working with The Menninger Foundation for emotionally challenged adolescents. Doug currently volunteers for the We Can Ride Corporation providing therapeutic horse back riding lessons to physically and mentally challenged adults and children.
Shawn Murphy Marquis, MSPT has a special interest in the performing arts. Beginning with her undergraduate degree in drama and dance at the University of Connecticut in 1986, Shawn has not only been a professional dancer but has worked as a physical therapist with performing artists in New York. She continues to assist with touring companies as they come through the Twin Cities. Since obtaining her masters degree in physical therapy at Mercy College in 1996, Shawn has worked with all ages and various diagnoses in private practice settings.
In addition to her interests in performing arts, Shawn has expertise in the Pilates Method. The Pilates Method can be used both during the rehabilitation process and as a post-rehab program. Her continuing education efforts have been focused on soft tissue mobilization, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, and other orthopedic manual therapy techniques.
Johnna Stob, PTA obtained her Associates degree in Applied Sciences from Anoka-Hennepin Technical College in 1999. She has enjoyed working in long term care and outpatient settings, both of which have allowed her to work with diverse patient populations and diagnoses. Johnna appreciates the mind-body approach and patient education aspects of working with Merz Physical Therapy. She is currently working to assist the Physical Therapy staff, and instructs patients in re-conditioning and aquatic programs.
Stephanie J. Hattelstad, PT received her degree in Physical Therapy from Mayo School of Health-Related Sciences in 1985. She has specialized in orthopedics and sports medicine, and brings 20 years of experience to Merz Physical Therapy. She is well-seasoned to the physical therapy process, having been a patient herself and managed several physical therapy clinics. Her philosophy is to provide individualized care to maximize ones level of function and quality of life. Special interests include spine, knee and shoulder problems.