Bios

Dr. Jennifer Iskat Frankoski:

She is a Board Certified Physical Therapist with clinical experience in an Orthopedic Residency Program and advanced pelvic floor training. Jennifer is a certified Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES).  She is also Certified in Dry Needling. She is currently in the process of studying for additional certifications in orthopedics, pelvic health, and strength and conditioning to expand her expertise on sports rehab, orthopedic rehab, women’s health and pelvic floor health.  Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and specialized in Exercise Science at Liberty University and became certified as a personal trainer with ACSM before going on to Lynchburg College to earn her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. For the past 9 +years she has been treating athletes and active individuals from various fitness and sport facilities with rehab and prevention of injuries.

Dr. Frankoski started the PT practice, Be the Change Physiotherapy in April 2018 to be able to create the change she wishes to see in the therapy and medical world by empowering patients with knowledge, individualized and one-on-one care without insurance limitations. She believes in conservative treatment including manual therapy, exercise prescription, strength training, tool assisted soft tissue work, dry needling, motor control training and educating the patient are the most effective approaches to treat various musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, pelvic floor and other painful conditions.

Jennifer has a history of 8 years of gymnastics experience with 7 years of gymnastics coaching experience, Crossfit coaching experience, 4 years of track and field as a hurdler and pole vaulter, as well as has run 2 ultra-marathons and currently is active in fitness including Crossfit, HIIT training, bootcamps, running, and has been active in the fitness and Crossfit communities in Charlotte for the past 8 years. She is also a coach at Vitality Fitness. In her free time, you’ll find Jenn outdoors, working out, running, writing, and/or hanging out with her husband. Jennifer and her husband are also expecting a baby in December 2022.

Dr. Brian Casto, PT, DPT

Brian is originally from West Virginia (Go Mountaineers!) and moved to Charlotte in 2011 shortly after graduating. He is married to his beautiful wife, Megan and together they have a son, Thomas. When he is not in the clinic, Brian enjoys spending his time with his family, traveling and all things fitness!

He joined Be The Change Physiotherapy in June, 2020 part time and began full time in April, 2021. He earned his B.S. Degree in Exercise Science in 2008 and then went on to earn his DPT degree from Wheeling Jesuit University in 2011.

Brian has experience in orthopedic rehabilitation and has advanced training in the rehabilitation and injury prevention of runners. He is certified in dry needling and has studied the McKenzie method for diagnosing and treating back and neck pain. He has experience treating athletes ranging from high school level to collegiate level up to professional athletes including football, baseball and tennis pro athletes. Brian’s treatment approach focuses on manual therapy techniques to improve mobility and progressive corrective exercises to build strength. He also specializes in injury prevention for runners through running gait analysis to optimize running form and reduce risk of injury while running.

Dr. Tamara Vead, PT, DPT

Tamara is a NC native, born and raised in Huntersville.  She has been active her entire life with a history of competitive gymnastics, softball, and cross-country. She is now married with a beautiful young daughter and another on the way! If she is not in the clinic you will find her outdoors running, hiking, or playing at the park. She has completed 2 marathons and 8 half-marathons since 2007.

Tamara received her B.A Degree in Exercise and Sport Science with a Minor in Coaching from UNC Chapel Hill in 2012 and then went on to earn her DPT Degree from East Carolina University in 2015. She has been practicing ever since with advanced training in women’s health, orthopedics, and pediatrics.  Tamara is a Post-partum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES).  She is actively pursuing additional education coursework in myofascial release, dry-needling, and working with the Crossfit athlete and runner.

Tamara joined Be The Change Physiotherapy in January of 2022.  She utilizes a combination of manual techniques, motor control training, strength progression, and education to generate lasting change and pain relief in her clients.

Vicki Brady, Office Assistant

I am a longtime resident of Charlotte (since 1987), wife (married for 32 years), mother to 3 adult children, and “mom” to 3 dogs. I’m a UNC Tarheel fan (class of ’86) and love hanging out and having adventures with my friends and family. In addition to being an office assistant here, I am a coach at CrossFit Harrisburg and personal trainer.

Prior to CrossFit, I was an obstacle course racer, but a serious injury 10 years ago put me out of that sport. I found another sport, dragon boat racing, shortly after, and have raced with teams locally, nationally, and internationally. I started CrossFit a few years ago for off-season training and loved it so much that I went year-round and started coaching about 2 years into it. I also enjoy doing CrossFit competitions (masters and scaled, team and individual).

Whether we are treating you for an orthopedic or women’s health issue, I can relate and am here to answer your questions and get you scheduled with one of our awesome PTs.