Oana Balasa, DPT, CES, Life Coach

(pronounced Wana)

Oana Balasa received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Des Moines University and her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Russell Sage College. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and holds a Certified Professional Life Coaching credential from the Christian Coaching Institute.

With 29 years of experience in outpatient orthopedics, Oana has worked with patients of all ages, addressing a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain, postural dysfunctions, movement restrictions, and balance and vestibular dysfunction.

Her focus is on treating the whole person, not just a single body part. Each plan of care is designed around the individual’s unique needs and goals. Oana blends advanced manual therapy techniques (including integrated neuromuscular inhibition/facilitation), corrective exercise, and life coaching to create a comprehensive and personalized approach. Her goal is to help patients experience both immediate relief and long-term resilience.

Oana’s perspective is deeply shaped by her own journey as a former Romanian gymnast and circus acrobat, where she experienced both the potential and vulnerabilities of the human body. This personal background, combined with decades of professional practice, has sharpened her insight into how injury and dysfunction affect every aspect of daily life. She understands the powerful interconnectedness of body and mind, and how each can hinder—or support—healing.

Guided by both professional expertise and personal empathy, Oana walks alongside her patients with compassion and encouragement, helping them overcome obstacles, restore function, and live life to the fullest.