Dain Vallie, Physical Therapist
EDUCATION: Doctorate of Physical Therapy & Bachelor of Science – Exercise Science from Lebanon Valley College
CONTACT:
dvallie@hartzpt.com
What makes Dain special?
Dain brings an open mind, a big heart, and a deep desire to grow to his role as a Physical Therapist in our Lititz office. A recent graduate of Lebanon Valley College he’s currently focusing on orthopedic care, but is committed to expanding his skills through mentorship and continuing education in neuro rehab, pelvic health, manual therapy, and chronic pain management. His goal is to deliver well-rounded, evidence-based care that sees the full person behind each diagnosis.
With a naturally outgoing personality and a background in leadership—both as a campus leader and captain of the LVC swim team—Dain understands the value of collaboration, curiosity, and community. Outside the clinic, you’ll likely find him on a trail, as he’s an avid mountain biker who loves a good challenge and time outdoors.
Fun fact: Dain also happens to be married to Celia, one of our wonderful PTs at the Ephrata office—making HARTZ a true family affair!
Want to know more? Here’s a little Q & A…
Why did you choose to be a PT/PTA for your profession?
I chose to become a PT because I was in the shoes of the patient! Throughout my life, I have experienced PT while recovering from a dislocated shoulder and various other aches and pains from athletics. My PT was a super friendly guy who always helped me return to doing the sports I loved, so I wanted to become a PT to build connections with patients while helping them get back to moving the way they want!
What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?
Something that has surprised me throughout school is learning how many specialties are available for PTs to pursue and fine-tune their practice.
If you weren’t a PT/PTA what you be doing, especially if salary wasn’t a concern?
I think that I would really enjoy masonry/landscaping work because I enjoy working outdoors, some manual labor, and the creativity to build a beautiful patio and outdoor area around a house.
What professional accomplishment of yours are you most proud of?
First, I am most proud of graduating from Lebanon Valley College with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy with Dean’s list every semester! Along the way, I have some proud moments including presenting research at the National PT conference in Houston in February 2025 as well as having the research published into an academic journal!
What energizes you at work?
Since I am an oddball that doesn’t like coffee, I find that I am physically energized by doing exercises alongside patients. I love doing this because it helps me to feel what they are feeling! More metaphorically, I am energized by teaching patients the WHY behind their physical therapy program and how their body is working so they can better understand how recovery can occur.
Most important advice you give your patients?
Motion is lotion and rest is rust! Our bodies are made to move, whether that be a short walk or heavy lifting, work those nerves, muscles, and joints! Keep moving.
What is one thing that instantly makes your day better?
Seeing wildlife! Whether it is a bunny munching on some grass or a deer prancing through a field, I love seeing wild animals and typically will watch them if I have a moment to.
Where would you be right now if you had zero obligations and money didn’t matter?
I would be riding a mountain bike or possibly doing a bikepacking trip in the Swiss Alps or the Rocky Mountains – wherever I can find endless trails!
What’s one habit you’re trying to form (or un-form)?
One habit that I am trying to form is reading consistently. I find that I enjoy reading while I am doing it, but I have struggled with being intentional about allocating time just to sit down and read.
Is there any experience you think everyone should be required to have? What is it?
I think everyone should be required to go stargazing. There is something incredible about looking into the clear sky full of stars and thinking about the vastness of the universe, the unknowns, and how our lives are one piece of it all.
What’s your favorite famous or inspirational quote?
As a cyclist who happens to also be a physical therapist preaching that motion is lotion, I really like the quote by Albert Einstein, and to me, this quote can have several meanings!
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
What’s your favorite place locally?
Mt. Gretna! What an absolute gem with the hiking and mountain biking trails/rail trail, the Jigger Shop, and the Governor Dick tower. It’s a small area with a lot to offer for outdoor lovers.
Do you have a nickname? How did you get it?
I have had several nicknames throughout my life! I was the Dain Train when I raced motocross, then I became Main Dain in high school on the swim team, and many people also call me the Great Dain because of the dog (which is fitting because my build is quite similar).
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include mountain biking/road cycling, running (road and trail), and swimming. Putting those together, one could say I am into triathlons! I have completed a handful of sprint triathlons and look forward to completing longer distances in the future!
