About Us

What is a Physiatrist?

Physiatry physicians treat a wide variety of medical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.

Specifically, PM&R physicians:

  • Have a broad medical expertise that allows them to treat disabling conditions throughout a person's lifetime, so they treat patients of all ages.
  • Commonly work with other physicians, which may include primary care physicians, neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and many others to treat the whole person, not just one problem area.
  • Lead a team of medical professionals, which may include physical therapists, occupational therapists, and physician extenders to optimize patient care. They determine and lead a treatment/prevention plan.
  • Diagnose and treat pain as a result of an injury, illness, or a disabling condition. They will focus treatment on function.
(Reference: Physiatry professional organization AAPM&R, AAPMR.org)

Dr. Shurtz loves being a PM&R Doctor because of the impact he can have on restoring quality to his patients' lives after acute phases of injury.

Our Staff

Dr. Joe Shurtz

Physician

I am a board certified Physiatrist also known as Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician. Prior to becoming a physician, I was a board certified athletic trainer and was a prior head athletic trainer for the national champion BYU men's rugby team. I have always had a passion for rehabilitation and helping people regain function after injury. This passion lead me to the specialty of Physiatry where our focus is to help improve functional mobility in the setting of neurologic injury or amputation. I also have a passion for teaching. I have served as an adjunct clinical professor for the University of Washington School of Medicine and I currently am a member of Abbvie Speaker Bureau to train other providers on the use of botulinum toxins in the treatment of limb spasticity and cervical dystonia. Outside of work I first and foremost love to spend time with my wife and three kids camping, ATVing, dirt biking, hiking, trail running, and of course fly fishing!

Education

  • Undergraduate — Brigham Young University with a double major in Athletic Training and Exercise Science.
  • Medical School — A.T. Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine.
  • Internship — Berkshire Medical Center, Pittsfield, MA
  • PM&R Residency — University of Missouri, Columbia

Natalie Shurtz, MHA

Operations Assistant

Hello! Im' Natalie. I've been a Montanan since 2017 when my husband and I moved here with our family to put down roots in this great community. I received training during my college years in the fields of Exercise Science (BS) and Healthcare Administration (MHA). I have worked in the healthcare industry in physical therapy and orthodontic clinics and assisted in medical research studies for a time as well. I have always had a passion for health and wellness and encouraging people to live as though life is a sweet adventure. I am excited to be a part of the Missoula Valley Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation clinic, to serve and support you on your path to optimal mobility and wellness.

My joys in life are social exercising (anything that gets me moving, with friends alongside me), book club nights, being involved in my church community, wood working, DIY creations, being Mom to my three littles, and wife to a real-life superman.

Abbe Moran

Billing and Insurance Specialist

Hello! My name is Abbe! I've been working in the medical field for 14 years, working in multiple healthcare services. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Health Care Administration and look forward to someday getting my master's degree. My love for healthcare continues to grow. When I'm not working, I'm spending time with my husband and 3 children. We love to get outdoors and enjoy all Montana has to offer.

Jana Lubbers

Receptionist

Hello! I'm Jana. I have lived in the beautiful state of Montana all my life. I am a wife and a mom of two little girls, whom are my whole world! I have a bachelor's and a master's degree in Psychology. My passion has always been helping people, whether it's on the phone or in person. I have experience in both fields of psychology and currently healthcare, for about 4 years. In my free time I enjoy going for walks around our neighborhood, reading, traveling, going to concerts, and of course, spending time with my family!

Tarn Duff

Medical Assistant

I have worked in health care for a long time with my scope ranging from women's health, pediatrics, and now, physical medicine and rehabilitation. I took 3.5 years off beginning in 2020 to be a stay-at-home Mom. Now that my kids are in school full-time, I have taken this great opportunity to come back to work. I have a passion for helping others in their time of need, and love to listen to everyone's story they have to tell, big or small. When I am not working you can find me outside hiking the trails, camping with my family, going to sporting events (Go Red Sox!), concerts, crafting, and everything in-between. I am the proud momma to two amazing girls, and married to my wonderful husband, Mike.


Ready to Enjoy the Benefits of Improved Movement?

It's as easy 1-2-3…

  • 1 Call our office or tap our “Contact Us” button to share what type of movement improvement you're in need of.
  • 2 Our Staff will collect further information to see if you could benefit from the services available in our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation clinic.
  • 3 We will schedule you for a consultation, where you can meet with Dr. Shurtz, and further discuss your physical limitations, goals, and options for care.