Drs. Vlach, Cooper, Baker, and Walker are board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.
Vlach, Walker, Cooper, and Baker are board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine. They primarily focus on nonsurgical intervention of sports and spine conditions include being the only Regenexx affiliate in the state of Idaho.
10/15/2025
Stretching isn’t just good—it's essential. A regular routine helps loosen tight muscles, increases mobility, and brings relief from everyday aches and stiffness caused by long periods of sitting, commuting, or screen time. Read our blog to explore stretches like cat-cow, child’s pose, or a simple knee-to-chest and weave them into your morning, midday breaks, or evening wind-down. https://rmspineandsport.com/blog/posts/how-to-incorporate-stretching-into-your-daily-routine-to-reduce-pain-and-stiffness/
09/12/2025
At Rocky Mountain Spine & Sport, we believe nutrition isn't just fuel—it’s medicine. By swapping ultra-processed snacks for nutrient-dense foods and staying hydrated, you’re taking a powerful, proactive step toward pain relief. Nutritional changes can empower you to feel stronger, more resilient, and more in control of your health. Read the full blog to discover how simple dietary tweaks can seriously support your body’s ability to manage pain: https://rmspineandsport.com/blog/posts/the-role-of-diet-and-nutrition-in-managing-physical-pain/
08/15/2025
A Doctor of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) focuses on diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating injuries and conditions affecting your brain, nerves, bones, and muscles. From tackling chronic back pain to helping athletes recover, physiatrists guide patients toward improved function, independence, and long-term wellness. Read more about the important role of physiatrists on our blog: https://rmspineandsport.com/blog/posts/what-is-a-doctor-of-physical-medicine/
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If you break your arm everyone knows they should see an orthopedic surgeon. If you have high blood pressure, see an internist.
When most people hurt their back they don’t automatically think “I need to see a physiatrist.” Maybe they should. And that also goes for sports injuries, pain issues, and exercise questions. Physiatry is most certainly the most useful medical specialty you probably have never heard of.
Dr. Sarah Vlach is board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine (Physiatry). Dr. Andrew Cooper is board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.
What is unique about a physiatric perspective? Exercise. Some pain doctors have a bias in their training towards pills or shots. In rehabilitation medicine exercise is frequently the starting (and finishing) point for any intervention. Exercise is the sustainable fix that can empower people to address their own issues. Internists prescribe medications for blood pressure. We prescribe exercise (and a few other things).
