john pt website bio 18

John Fainsan

PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, CDN
Physical Therapist

With a career spanning over two decades, John is a seasoned Physical Therapist committed to elevating the standards of orthopedic care. A proud alumnus of Ithaca College, he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Clinical Science and earned his M.S. in Physical Therapy. John furthered his education, attaining a transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University.

His practice covers the spectrum, addressing back and neck pain, shoulder injuries, knee pain, ankle injuries, postoperative cases, chronic pain, and other complex orthopedic conditions. From elite athletes to outdoor enthusiasts and weekend warriors, John employs manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, patient education, and diverse modalities to repair orthopedic challenges. John firmly believes physical therapy creates the optimal environment to maximize the human body’s healing potential.

John holds the prestigious title of Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, granted by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. His commitment to staying at the forefront of the field is evident through certifications in manual therapy from the University of St. Augustine, strength and conditioning from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and dry needling from the Institute of Advanced Musculoskeletal Treatments. As an adjunct faculty member for Shenandoah University’s physical therapy program, John contributes to the development of future medical professionals. He is also a lead instructor for dry needling with the Institute of Advanced Musculoskeletal Treatments, John’s passion for teaching aligns with his belief in growing the profession. 

Formerly a resident of New York and Colorado, John now calls Northern Virginia home, where he resides with his wife and two sons. Having visited 18 different countries and fluent in three languages, he embraces a multicultural perspective. As a jiu-jitsu practitioner, a world traveler, and a courageous father of two boys, John finds joy in exploring new horizons.

A MESSAGE FROM JOHN:

Physical therapy can create the proper environment to maximize the human body’s healing potential. My passion lies in helping clients improve their function and contributing to the growth of physical therapy through teaching.”

College

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Shenandoah University
  • Master of Science in Physical Therapy, Ithaca College
  • Bachelor of Science, Clinical Science, Ithaca College

Certifications

  • Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties
  • Manual Therapy Certified (MTC), University of St. Augustine
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), National Strength and Conditioning Association
  • Completed Certification in Dry Needling (CDN)

Educational Affiliations

  • Lead Instructor, Institute of Advanced Musculoskeletal Treatments
  • Adjunct Faculty, Shenandoah University

What Patients Are Saying

Google
5.0/5
May 4, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
I’ve known Melanie Gonzaga for the past 20+ years. She’s an amazing soul and a fantastic physical therapist. I hurt myself during the birth of my first child 19 years ago by tearing muscles in my back and glutes that destabilized my lower spine. I was in excruciating pain. The only therapist who could ever relieve my pain was Melanie. I have been her patient for several other injuries because she’s the only one I trust. I love that she’s hands on! Currently, I have pain in the left side and back of my left leg, which makes it difficult for me to walk. I’m able to use other therapists with zero charge for my insurance, but I choose Melanie because I’d rather pay some money out-of-pocket than to waste my time with other therapists who are unfortunately not as capable and knowable as Melanie. When I wasn’t able to consult Melanie, I visited four therapists, an OMM doctor, and a great chiropractor, but Melanie is the only one who could fix my pain. I cannot say enough about how amazing, professional, knowledgeable, and kind Melanie is. You are in very good and capable hands with her.
Google
5.0/5
May 3, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
I have been a patient of Virginia Therapy and Fitness Center (VTFC) for over five years. In my opinion they are the premier therapy provider in the area. The fact that your visit is a one on one with the therapist with your full time is not the norm in this area. I chose VTFC because of my history with them. I had a full knee replacement in March 2024 and Steven Chung has been my therapist. Steven worked on my knee for six weeks and I can say that from my first visit to the last my improvement has been tremendous. When I started, I was using a walker now I walk without any assistance. I will know more when I see the doctor in a couple of weeks. I am sure he will be pleased with my progress
Google
5.0/5
May 3, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
I changed clinics to follow Melanie Gonzaga, a phenomenal physical therapist who has been invaluable in helping me return to professional competition after career threatening injuries. Thanks to her and John Fainsan, I’m on the road to full recovery and look forward to competing later this year. The staff at VSI has been fantastic. Professional, friendly, and helpful every step of the way. Highly recommended!
Google
5.0/5
May 2, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
My experiences at VTFC have been incredible! Kyle is outstanding! He is knowledgeable, courteous, thorough, and dedicated to improving his clients quality of life! He is a fabulous therapist and trainer and I have recommended him to my family and friends! The entire staff are professional and extremely courteous! I am so thankful to have VTFC and Kyle in my life!
Google
5.0/5
Apr 25, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
Fantastic PT with Jason! Love the coordination between the PT Staff and the Medical Staff Dr. Good and Dr. Bharara to optimize recovery.
Google
5.0/5
Apr 24, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
While traveling my left arm started tingling and I lost some strength and the use of some of the fingers in that hand. I immediately made an appt with my old chiropractor in Dubai hoping for some relief but didn’t get any improvement after 2 sessions. I also tried 5 massages hoping to loosen up the tension in my left neck/shoulder area but also didnt get any improvement from my symptoms. Upon getting back I fortunately saw Larry Grine who was able to get me some much needed relief. Symptoms are sooo much better, almost gone. Very happy and grateful to Larry and VSI.
Google
5.0/5
Apr 24, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
Having ruptured a disc, I sought out Larry for PT and advice on my situation. After an assessment in which Larry clearly listened to my symptoms and medical history, he set up a treatment regiment that brought immediate and consistent relief. He then consulted with his colleagues on a exercise program that strengthen my core and back quickly and without a large investment of time. The result is that after a month, I no longer needed scheduled care and the exercises have kept the pain away for 9 months.
Google
5.0/5
Apr 23, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
The Virginia Therapy & Fitness Center (and John Fainsan, in particular) were fabulous! I was being treated for a frozen shoulder. Making appointments was easy (and the reception staff were friendly and competent). John himself was amazing--he was excellent at explaining what he was doing and why it was important. There was no judgment of weeks when I wasn't as conscientious about my exercises as I should have been, and he was always friendly and helpful. I highly recommend John and the Virginia Therapy & Fitness Center!
Google
5.0/5
Apr 20, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
John Fainsan at VSI PT is an exceptional physical therapist in every way. I used him for PT on my knees. He is extremely knowledgeable, highly skilled in multiple different PT techniques, and brings a long-term comprehensive strategy to healing. He is encouraging, helpful and spends the entire hour with you working on your healing. VSI is a great, first class facility.
Google
5.0/5
Apr 10, 2024
Google - VSI Physical Therapy (VTFC)
VSI has always been my go-to place for physical therapy. Last year, I went to VSI following surgery to repair my dislocated shoulder and, subsequently, for tennis elbow. I went for months and the care I received was top-notch. Everything from administrative needs to the actual care received was excellent. This year, I underwent physical therapy at VSI with Steven for a quad/knee injury I sustained while climbing and I received the same quality of professionalism and care. Steven not only helped me achieve functionality in my quad/knee again, but also took great care to ensure that I was able to get back to the sports I enjoy most. I can't recommend VSI enough!

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