Leonardtown Clinic Manager

Tara Esler is an energetic physical therapist who began practicing in 1998. She grew up in Northern New Jersey, spent time in several locations along the east coast, choosing Southern Maryland as home in 2010. Tara joined CAO in 2018 to assist renowned and respected Southern Maryland CAO Orthopedic Surgeons expand their practice into rehabilitative medicine. She was instrumental in opening CAO Physical Therapy offices in Waldorf and Leonardtown. Tara currently serves as Clinical Manager at our Leonardtown location.

Education

Tara graduated from Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Science in 1997 and a Master of Science in Physical Therapy in 1998. Tara has continued to actively expand her clinical skill set through Continuing Education with focus on improving function and performance through variety manual therapy techniques and exercise prescription. Tara is a Certified Clinical Instructor (CI) by the APTA, and holds additional certifications in Blood Flow Restriction, Kinesiology Taping and IASTM. She is also an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

Experience

Since beginning practice in 1998, Tara has worked in a variety of settings to include Orthopedics, Pediatrics and Neurological Rehab. She has had the opportunity to practice at prestigious institutions of John Hopkins and Easter Seals. Tara has management experience serving as the Director of Rehab for Easter Seals – Greater Baltimore Washington Region overseeing home, community and center-based programs. Tara has worked with clients of all ages and diagnoses from all walks of life. Treatment experience includes, but is not limited to return to sports, pre and post – surgical rehabilitation, post traumatic injury, overuse syndrome, peripheral joint and spinal dysfunction to include the SI joint.

Philosophy

Tara loves guiding and motivating patients back to healthy lifestyle. She believes in treating the patient and not just their injury. She recognizes that each patient has different comfort level with exercise and their body. She wants each patient to feel comfortable and enjoy their PT experience. Tara strives to empower each patient to manage their dysfunction to achieve their desired lifestyle.

Personal

Tara believes in balanced active lifestyle. In her time away from clinic, she loves time with her family, friends and dog. She is an avid fan of her children’s sports teams. She enjoys working out, outdoor activities, cooking and time at the beach.