OptiTune

Outpatient Physical Therapy with a Compassionate Approach In Salem, OR

Physical Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine

At OptiTune Physical Therapy, located in Salem, OR, we take the time to listen to your story, discuss your symptoms, and understand your goals. Using evidence-based techniques we blend gentle manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, mobilizations, manipulations and myofascial trigger point release with exercise therapy. We provide comprehensive patient education and a personalized home exercise program.

Our mission is to support you in achieving your goals and help you return to your optimal health (OptiTune!) and wellbeing. We continually strive to enhance our skills and improve patient outcomes through ongoing education and professional development.

Feel free to contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

Physical Therapy Services

McKenzie Method illustration for physical therapy

The McKenzie Method

Manual Therapy

Pain Neuroscience Education

Woman performing corrective exercise for physical therapy

Corrective Exercises

Sports Rehabilitation

Work Injury Rehabilitation

Meet Erik De Proost, DPT, OCS, Cert. MDT, COMT

With over 35 years of experience, Erik specializes in evaluating and treating orthopedic, sports, neurological, and work-related injuries. His extensive education and hands-on expertise allow him to provide the highest quality of care, using evidence-based treatments that adapt to your unique needs.

Educational Background

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Evidence in Motion Institute of Health Professionals, specializing in Musculoskeletal Management

Master's and bachelor’s degrees in physical therapy from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium

Certifications & Continuing Education

Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) – APTA

Certified in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (Cert. MDT) – The McKenzie Institute

Certified in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) – International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (Belgium)

Manual Therapy Certification (Parts 1 & 2) – International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine

Certification in Scientific Physical Therapy and Back & Neck School

Medical Training Therapy (Norwegian Model) Certification

Certified Clinical Instructor for the University of New Mexico

Professional Journey:

Erik began his career owning a physical therapy practice in the Province of Antwerp, Belgium. After moving to the U.S. in 1996, he served as Lead Therapist at Carlsbad Medical Center, and later founded Living Desert Physical Therapy. Since 2008, he co-owned Therapy Solutions in Santa Fe, NM, and continued for 16 years. Now, he’s proud to serve the Salem, OR community with OptiTune Physical Therapy, LLC.

Personal Background:

Originally from Antwerp, Belgium, he lived in Vienna, Austria, during his early childhood before returning to Belgium. He moved to the U.S. in 1996 with his wife, Inge, and two children, Maud and Milan, and built a rewarding career in physical therapy. Outside of work, he enjoys tennis, hiking and biking.