Dr. Alaina Rae Marino

PT, DPT, DScPT, cDN, CMPT, COMT², OCS, FAAOMPT
Owner, Physical Therapist

I grew up in Kingston, Tennessee, 30 minutes west of here, and graduated from Roane Co. High in 1998. I was originally introduced to the idea of a career in health care in grade school when I met my first PT after a knee surgery from playing basketball. After several more injuries (from tennis, softball, soccer, rugby, and rock climbing) and meeting some fantastic PTs, I got excited about helping others the way they helped me to get back to the activities I loved. I also enjoyed teaching swimmers and lifeguarding through my college years and became the graduate assistant of Aquatics and Outdoor Recreation before I entered into the wonderful world of Physical Therapy practice. I have been blessed to travel in the US, Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia and learn something new from every culture I visit.

I have been helping people get back in action without injections, medications, or surgery since 2005. I completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Health Science, and a Master’s in Physical Therapy from East Tennessee State University, then a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University in Virginia. Currently, I am completing my thesis on Nocturnal Leg Cramps for a DSc (an advanced clinical PhD) in Orthopedic Manual Therapy. I completed a 3-year Fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Therapy with the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy, and I enjoy helping other fellows-in-training to complete their programs.

I specialize in the treatment of chronic and complex conditions, spine disorders, orthopedic injuries, pediatric pain, Bell’s palsy, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, headaches, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, nighttime leg cramps, and post–motor vehicle accident rehabilitation. I have completed four advanced manual therapy certifications, allowing me to provide evidence-based, hands-on care for patients with a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. In addition to my clinical practice, I enjoy serving as an Adjunct Professor of Orthopedics at South College and Lincoln Memorial University, where I help educate the next generation of physical therapists.

My core values: They used to be “Excellence in everything” and “Have fun and get the job done” but it is amazing how adding a kid into the mix changes your perspective on things! Now I would lean toward “Give your best and love the most”

As a manual (hands on) therapist, this one really resonates with me: “Give your hands to serve, and your hearts to love.” – Mother Teresa

Patient Testimonials

I had been suffering from neck pain for years. Had been to other local PTs for months with no results. Finally, I found Marino Physiotherapy. Alaina actually diagnoses the underlying issue and creates a plan specific to your problem. They don’t just give you generic exercises. It is all specific to you. I work in healthcare and they are top notch! Just go here 🙂 – Erin Pressley

I am so pleased with all the positive experiences I have had with Alaina Marino in physical therapy. I was in so much pain that I thought I would have to see my spine specialist recently for leg pain, but I saw Alaina first. She understood exactly what had happened to both my nerves and muscles and how to ease the pain and move forward with treatments. I was amazed at how much she knows and explains so well. Also, the assigned exercises are not overwhelming as they have been in the past with other PTs, which makes them easier to do everyday. – Margaret Neate

Alaina Marino and her staff are exceptional! After visiting three different physical therapists last year and seeing no change in my knee pain, I found Marino Physiotherapy. I felt Alaina really listened and is treating me as an individual, not just another person with a knee issue. She explains everything in terms you understand and creates plans that work. I have told everyone I can about this practice! – Sarah Chermely

Dr. Alaina Rae Marino