Staff
Fred Shonkwiler, MPT, CEAS, GFS
Clinic Owner
Fred Shonkwiler, MPT, CEAS, GFS received his Master's in Physical Therapy (MPT) from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri in 1997. Fred has a passion for education. Educating patients is the hallmark of his practice. From this passion, Fred himself has pursued extensive continuing education in order to better care for his patients. He has extensive training in orthopedics involving manual therapy including both mobilization and manipulation of the spine. Fred is a very comprehensive therapist and thus has extensive training in neuromuscular processes as well. He has been trained in "Postural Restoration" which is a holistic approach is involving the entire body to the restoration of one's posture and in finding the origin of one's pain. He also has received the credentials of Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (CEAS). With this training, he helps injured workers return to work. In addition, his knowledge in the field of ergonomics can help a worker or patient, improve and maintain an optimal work environment to prevent injuries.
Fred also has incorporated one of his hobbies into his professional life by becoming a Golf Fitness Specialist (GFS). Fred founded BodySwing Golf Fitness in 2004, a business dedicated to the fitness, performance, and rehab of golfers. Fred is passionate about golf and in educating golfers on how golf fitness can improve their performance, and give their bodies longevity. Fred was born and raised in Kansas City, MO. He, his wife and three children now reside in St. Joseph, MO.
Niki Hilgenberg, MPT
Physical Therapist
Niki Hilgenberg enjoys working with a variety of patients, but has a special interest in working with athletes, pregnancy-related PT issues and aquatic training. As a 16-year veteran of long distance running, her dream as a physical therapist has been to develop and implement a program for runners that helps prevent injuries.
Education
- Master's in Physical Therapy (Summa Cum Laude, University of Missouri-Columbia): 2004
- Bachelor's in Health Science (Summa Cum Laude, University of Missouri-Columbia): 2002
Niki has completed eight marathons, including three world marathon majors: Boston, Chicago and New York. She hopes to one day run the London and Berlin marathons. Niki also spent a summer semester of her college career in Costa Rica, studying Spanish and learning about the Latin culture, from food and entertainment to healthcare.
Her other interests include spending time with her three-year-old son, Ronen, and husband David, traveling abroad, camping and playing volleyball.
Brent Colgan, MPT
Brent was born and raised in St. Joseph and has been treating patients locally for over 12 years. Brent offers a compassionate hands-on approach to physical therapy treatment. He has a special interest in patients with balance concerns and general debilitation. Following physical therapy school he completed a twelve month orthopedic manual therapy residency course under the internationally known Norwegian specialist Ola Grimsby. Brent's experience and advanced training give him an edge in helping patients of all ages return to the activities they enjoy. He is committed to serving his patients with high quality care with a personal touch.
Brent has been married to his wife Julie for nearly 10 years and they have two beautiful girls (Bailey and Paige). He enjoys spending time with his family and getting outdoors whenever possible.
Christina McCartney
Front Desk Coordinator
Becca Weeks
Front Desk Assistant, Technician
