James Buskirk – Head of Physical Therapy
Jim Buskirk, PT, SCS, is the CEO and Clinical Director of Peak & Balance Centers of America, Inc. For over 25 years, Jim has been practicing physical therapy, conducting medical research into the vestibular system and balance disorders, and teaching doctors and physical therapists at several Chicago universities and medical schools.
Jim has worked with the Department of Defense (Depts. of the Navy and Air Force) and NASA on projects of dizziness and balance disorders. He introduced testing and screening procedures which provide safe return to normal duties for pilots, divers, and other armed services personnel. Jim has worked with the Consultants in Neurology to develop the first Comprehensive Hearing & Dizziness and Balance Center located in Wilmette, IL where he treats patients with balance disorders related to a variety of neuromusculoskeletal dysfunctions. Also, he established the Balance Therapy Research Foundation, which conducts clinical research on dizziness and balance disorders. As a graduate of the University of Health Sciences/The Chicago Medical School, Jim completed the Musculoskeletal track in the Master's Degree PT program at Northwestern University. Currently, his primary research interests are in the recovery of function following concussion and tinnitus. He is involved in research of peripheral and central vestibular disorders, and the use of balance and proprioceptive retraining for lower extremity musculoskeletal injury. Jim is certified as a sports specialist by the APTA. He currently is a physical therapist for the Chicago Wolves Professional Hockey Team and works closely with athletes at all levels.
Nicole Steinberg – Physical Therapist
Nicole L Steinberg, PT, DPT, recently moved from New York City where she had her own private practice. She has experience in balance and vestibular rehabilitation, geriatrics, orthopedics and acute care. Nicole is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the Illinois State Physical Therapy Association. In addition to clinical practice, Nicole demonstrates an interest in teaching.
Nicole graduated from the New York University Doctor of Physical Therapy program in 2003. She completed her Vestibular Certification (Herdman) in 2004. Additionally, she is certified as a strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Ewa Kopec – Physical Therapist
Ewa Kopec, PT, MS, has practiced Physical Therapy for over 19 years in Poland and the United States. She has experience in orthopedics, neurology, rheumatology and geriatrics, in both the outpatient and inpatient settings. Ewa also practiced Physical Therapy working with children in special education in several school systems. After years of working in administration, Ewa decided to practice "hands-on" therapy.
Ewa graduated with her Masters in Physical Therapy from the Academy of Physical Education in Krakow, Poland.
Magda Pietruszka – Physical Therapist Technician
Magda Pietruszka has been working in outpatient Physical Therapy settings for over 6 years. Magda has gained a working knowledge in the vestibular field and conducts the testing protocol for vestibular patients. She enjoys working with patients and witnessing positive results in patient care.
Magda graduated from the Academy of Physical Education in Krakow, Poland with a B.S. in Physical Therapy.
Patricia Hodgson – Regional Manager
For over 27 years, Pat Hodgson has been working the healthcare field. As a Certified Healthcare Specialist, she understands the ever-changing medical landscape for patients and professionals. Pat thrives on the challenges of keeping clinics running smoothly within the guidelines of the Federal agencies, State agencies, insurance carriers and referring physicians.
Pat has numerous healthcare and HR accreditations as well as numerous business leadership affiliations.