Optimum Origin
Optimum Physical Therapy was founded in East Tennessee with a simple but meaningful purpose: to serve people well and help the community heal, move, and thrive. Built on a passion for outpatient physical therapy, the clinic began with a desire to provide compassionate, individualized care for people recovering from surgery, injury, or illness.
Rooted in the values of East Tennessee, Optimum Physical Therapy strives to meet patients where they are. The clinic is committed to treating every person with the same respect, patience, and attention that its team would want for their own family. With a strong community focus and a dedication to continued education, Optimum Physical Therapy works to provide high-quality care that helps each patient return to the activities and lifestyle they value most.
With strong experience in orthopedic physical therapy, Optimum Physical Therapy is equipped to care for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including joint pain, sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, balance and mobility concerns, and recovery from everyday aches and strains. Our approach focuses on identifying the root cause of
pain or limitation, building individualized treatment plans, and guiding each patient through hands-on care, therapeutic exercise, education, and progressive return-to-activity strategies. Whether helping an athlete return to competition, supporting someone after surgery, or assisting a patient in moving comfortably through daily life, our goal is to restore strength, confidence, and long-term function.
Meet the Team
Our team of dedicated physical therapists is committed to providing you with the best care to support your journey to recovery and well-being.
Physical Therapist
Charles Peters III
Charles is an Elizabethton native who graduated from Elizabethton High School in 2006 while playing football, basketball, and baseball. Charles went on to get a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, and he also got his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from ETSU as well in 2013. Charles has been serving the Elizabethton community since 2014 where he specializes in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. Charles has provided athletic coverage for Unaka High School since 2014 assisting in injury prevention and acute care. His wife, Rachel, is also a physical therapist, and they have four children together. Charles has interests in being with family and living an active lifestyle. He takes pride in serving the community. Charles has been serving since 2020 in Tennessee National Guard as an officer where he is also a Physical Therapist.
Physical Therapist
Rachel Peters
Rachel Peters, PT, DPT, is an Elizabethton native and graduate of Elizabethton High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Freed-Hardeman University, where she also played collegiate softball, before receiving her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from East Tennessee State University. Rachel has extensive experience in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy and has provided sports medicine coverage for Sullivan East High School football and basketball. She has also volunteered her time assisting with community pre-participation sports physicals and screenings. Rachel is passionate about helping people recover from injury or illness and return to the activities and quality of life that matter most to them. Outside the clinic, she and her husband, Charles, who is also a physical therapist, enjoy life with their four children.
Physical Therapist
Holly Whitt
PT, DPT, Cert TDN graduated from East Tennessee States University with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2011. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Holly is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal movements and long-term wellness. At Optimum Physical Therapy, she combines hands-on techniques, therapeutic exercise, and personalized treatment plans to guide patients through every stage of recovery. With extensive experience in orthopedic rehabilitation and functional recovery, Holly is committed to delivering measurable results with a patient centered approach. Holly is committed to empowering patients to move better, feel stronger, and return to the activities they love.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Madison Hilbert
Madison Hilbert is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant dedicated to helping patients improve mobility, regain strength, and return to the activities they enjoy most. As a local to the area, Madison is passionate about serving the community and providing supportive, individualized care throughout every stage of the rehabilitation process. Madison earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Milligan College and later completed her Physical Therapist Assistant degree at South College. Working closely with physical therapists, Madison focuses on guiding patients through therapeutic exercise, hands-on treatment, and education to promote long-term recovery and improved function. Known for an encouraging approach and strong patient connection, Madison strives to create a positive and motivating environment for every patient.
Physical Therapist Assistant
Shannon Byers
Shannon has been practicing for 33 years. He is a graduate of Science Hill High School and attended University of Tennessee Knoxville as well as a graduate of Walter's State Community College. Shannon is an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing. He has been active in the community assisting with athletic coverage for over 20 years now. He is married to Rebecca Byers. He is a father and a grandfather. Shannon has spent his career working in outpatient with sports recovery as well as assisting with return to function and daily living activities.
Intake Specialist/Insurance Coordinator
Jennifer Jenkins
Our Approach
Optimum Physical Therapy is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve your optimal physical health. Our team of experienced therapists is committed to delivering high-quality services, focusing on your unique needs and goals. We believe in the power of physical therapy to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and improve overall wellness. At Optimum Physical Therapy, we are passionate about empowering our patients to live their best lives.
Why Choose Us?
At Optimum Physical Therapy, our focus is simple — providing personalized care that helps every patient move better, feel stronger, and return to the activities they enjoy most. As a locally owned clinic, we take the time to understand your goals, your lifestyle, and the root cause of your pain so your treatment plan is built specifically for you.
One-on-One, Personalized Care
Care for All Ages and Activity Levels
Experienced, Patient-Focused Treatment
Local Care You Can Trust
A Clear Path to Recovery
"They actually CARE about their clients. It is customized, genuine, and intentional care. The entire team! They are incredibly knowledgeable, creative, and thorough in their approach to treatment. Forever grateful for them!"
Mandy Kay Bateman
