Tim Zelch, DPT, FAAOMPT, Dip MDT, COMT, CMTPT, OCS received his Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. His clinical interests focus on outpatient orthopedics, with a particular emphasis on spinal disorders and complex musculoskeletal conditions.
Following his doctoral training, Dr. Zelch pursued extensive post-doctoral education in orthopedic and manual physical therapy. He earned certifications in McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (Cert. MDT), Maitland Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT), and MyoPain Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy (CMTPT).
To further advance his expertise in the evaluation and treatment of spinal and extremity disorders, Dr. Zelch completed the McKenzie Institute International Diploma in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (Dip MDT) through the University of Dundee in Scotland. Fewer than 500 physical therapists worldwide have achieved this level of McKenzie training. Dr. Zelch is one of only three Dip MDT practitioners in Virginia and the sole Dip MDT provider in Loudoun County.
In 2020, following four years of rigorous post-doctoral didactic education and advanced clinical training, Dr. Zelch completed fellowship training through the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT) and earned the designation FAAOMPT. Fellowship-trained physical therapists represent less than one percent of the profession and demonstrate an advanced level of expertise in orthopedic manual physical therapy.
As a leader in the profession, Dr. Zelch organizes and leads monthly interdisciplinary study groups for physical therapists, chiropractors, and physicians throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. These meetings focus on the latest research, evidence-based treatment techniques, clinical reasoning, and evolving practice patterns in musculoskeletal care.
In 2023, Dr. Zelch became an Adjunct Faculty Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, where he teaches courses in Professional Development and Leadership as well as Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy.
Committed to maintaining the highest level of clinical expertise, Dr. Zelch continued his professional development by sitting for the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) examination, which he successfully passed in 2026. The OCS designation is awarded by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties to physical therapists who demonstrate advanced knowledge and clinical expertise in orthopedic physical therapy.
Dr. Zelch remains dedicated to advancing the field of orthopedic physical therapy through clinical practice, teaching, mentorship, research discussion, and continued professional education.
A native to Pittsburgh, Tim currently lives with his wife and sons in Northern Virginia. They love traveling throughout the USA and the world, and have had the pleasure of residing in six different states (Oregon being a favorite!). A few of their favorite locations abroad include Scotland, Iceland, Japan, Taiwan, and Croatia. While visiting, they enjoy hiking and experiencing different food and cultures.