Physical Therapist
Josh McDearmon, PT, DPT, CSCS
Josh McDearmon brings a unique combination of exercise science expertise and comprehensive physical therapy training to his practice at Zarett Rehab. With his background as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and former Exercise Physiologist, Josh understands the complete spectrum of human movement—from rehabilitation to performance optimization.
His journey in healthcare began with a personal connection to chronic pain management, having witnessed his mother’s struggles and ultimate relief through physical therapy. This early experience shaped Josh’s empathetic approach and his commitment to helping patients find lasting solutions to their pain and movement limitations.
Josh’s diverse clinical experience spans multiple settings and patient populations, from acute hospital care to elite athletes training at corporate wellness facilities. This breadth of experience allows him to create comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique circumstances and goals.
Education & Credentials
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Arcadia University, 2022
Bachelor of Science in Health Assessment and Promotion
James Madison University, 2015
Certifications:
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – National Strength and Conditioning Association
- The Mulligan Concept Training
- Run DNA Movement Analysis
- HSS Sports Symposium – Post-Operative Interventions
Areas of Expertise
Josh specializes in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions with a focus on:
- Postural Dysfunction & Chronic Pain – Addressing neck and lower back pain related to postural imbalances and movement patterns
- Sports-Related Injuries – Treatment of acute strains, sprains, and overuse injuries in athletes
- Pre-Operative & Post-Operative Care – Comprehensive rehabilitation for upper and lower extremity surgical procedures
- Post-Surgical Orthopedics – Specialized protocols for optimal recovery following orthopedic surgery
- Movement Analysis & Correction – Identifying and addressing biomechanical inefficiencies
- Strength & Conditioning Integration – Bridging the gap between rehabilitation and performance
Treatment Philosophy
Josh takes a holistic approach to each patient’s treatment plan, recognizing that successful rehabilitation extends beyond isolated exercises or techniques. He believes that prioritizing each individual patient’s goals and integrating them into their plan of care facilitates more positive outcomes and helps patients return to their prior level of activity—or even surpass it.
By combining evidence-based physical therapy interventions with his strength and conditioning expertise, Josh creates comprehensive programs that not only address immediate pain and dysfunction but also build long-term resilience. His patient-centered approach ensures that treatment plans are meaningful, achievable, and aligned with what matters most to each individual.
Clinical Experience
Josh’s connection to Zarett Rehab runs deep—he began his healthcare career here as an Exercise Physiologist for two years before pursuing his doctorate in physical therapy. This early experience provided him with valuable insight into fitness, wellness, and the preventative side of healthcare.
His diverse clinical training includes:
- Inpatient Acute Care – Capital Health, Trenton, New Jersey – Gained experience with complex medical patients requiring early mobilization and intensive rehabilitation in hospital settings
- Outpatient Orthopedic Physical Therapy – Nova Orthopedic and Spine, Woodbridge, Virginia – Focused primarily on post-surgical orthopedic rehabilitation, developing expertise in surgical protocols and progressive return-to-function programs
- Corporate Wellness – Comcast Center, Philadelphia – Currently works with employees in a corporate wellness setting, addressing work-related injuries and promoting preventative care
- Home & Outpatient Physical Therapy – Fox Rehabilitation, Greater Philadelphia Area – Provided in-home and outpatient care across diverse settings, learning to adapt treatment approaches to various environments and patient needs
This varied background has equipped Josh to treat patients across all settings and populations, from hospital beds to athletic training facilities.
Populations Served
Josh treats a diverse range of patients, including:
- Recreational athletes
- Collegiate athletes
- Professional athletes
- Post-operative patients across all age groups
- Older adults managing chronic conditions
- Corporate wellness clients
- Individuals with chronic pain
- General population seeking improved movement and function
Treatment Techniques
Josh incorporates a variety of evidence-based techniques into his practice, including:
- Manual therapy and joint mobilizations
- Mobilizations with movement (Mulligan Concept)
- Passive stretching and soft tissue mobilization
- Movement analysis and gait assessment (Run DNA methodology)
- Corrective exercise programming
- Sport-specific rehabilitation protocols
- Post-operative intervention strategies (HSS Sports Symposium training)
- Strength and conditioning principles for rehabilitation
- Functional movement screening and assessment
- Progressive loading and return-to-sport protocols
Personal Background
Originally from the South, Josh is the only member of his family to venture north to a northeastern city—a move that brought him to Philadelphia and eventually back to Zarett Rehab. Outside the clinic, Josh enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, exploring his new neighborhood in South Philadelphia, and heading down to the shore when he can.
His southern roots combined with his adaptability to urban northeastern life reflect his ability to connect with diverse patient populations and create comfortable, welcoming treatment environments.
Why Physical Therapy?
Josh’s interest in physical therapy began at a young age when he watched his mother struggle with chronic pain. She tried numerous doctors, medications, and treatments, but the intervention that provided her with significant, lasting relief was physical therapy. Witnessing this transformation firsthand showed Josh the profound impact that skilled, compassionate PT care can have on someone’s quality of life.
While Josh enjoys working with all populations—from elite athletes to post-operative patients—working with individuals experiencing chronic pain holds special meaning to this day. He understands the frustration, limitations, and emotional toll that chronic pain can cause, and he’s committed to helping patients find relief and reclaim their lives, just as his mother did years ago.
This personal connection to chronic pain management informs his patient-centered, holistic approach and drives his dedication to finding solutions that work for each individual.
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Schedule an appointment with Josh to begin your personalized rehabilitation journey.
