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Meet Dr. Rakestraw

Dr. Rakestraw began her career in Boston, MA after graduating from the prestigious MGH Institute of Health Professions in 2009 with her doctorate in Physical Therapy. After working for some of the top ranked hospitals in the country, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Spaulding Rehabilitation, and working alongside some of the top ranked physicians in the orthopedic and sports world Dr. Rakestraw returned home to Northern Virginia to continue to progress her career. 

During her time working at Body Dynamics in Falls Church Dr. Rakestraw had the wonderful opportunity to work with the Washington Ballet and acted as the co-director of the Washington Ballet Wellness Program. She also provided backstage and physical therapy care to other professional dancers, performers and actors at the Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Ford’s Theatre, and Shakespeare Theatre. 

Throughout her career Dr. Rakestraw has strived for excellence, achieving the title of Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist in 2015. She has also had extensive continuing education and has been trained in numerous manual techniques including dry needling and cupping. Given her expertise, Dr. Rakestraw has acted as a clinical instructor, mentor, as well as a teaching assistant throughout her years, and most recently has joined the faculty of the Inova OCS Residency Program as both teaching and adjunct faculty. 

Dr. Rakestraw has spent her entire life at the crossroads of sports and wellness. From her days as an athlete achieving the prestigious title of “All Met” in field hockey, to her role as the wellness program director at James Madison University's recreation center, and later as a coach, she has consistently been immersed in this domain. Now, she brings her wealth of experience and expertise to her professional career as a physical therapist.

Dr. Rakestraw now resides in Vienna, VA with her husband and three daughters and enjoys spending time with her family, cheering on her daughter’s softball and soccer teams, running, cooking, and doing Pilates. 

Dr. Rakestraw is passionate about providing patients comprehensive, compassionate, and specialized care, and is excited to now offer her services to people in her community.