Michael Amato, DPT - UNC Therapy Services at the Ambulatory Care Center

I became a physical therapist so that I could help people with musculoskeletal-related difficulties get back to living their lives to the fullest and to promote lifelong physical activity and movement. I believe in taking a holistic and person-centered approach focused on promoting self-efficacy with self-management. By the time I am done working with someone, my goal is to make sure they have the tools they need to treat themselves and to reduce the risk of re-injury in the future. I enjoy working with people across the lifespan and with varying levels of activity, from kids to older adults, and from weekend warriors to competitive athletes. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through running, resistance training, walking/hiking with my dog and partner, and doing mixed martial arts including Muay Thai and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I also enjoy reading and the occasional video game.

I became a physical therapist to work alongside patients to improve their quality of life. I believe in individualizing care to each unique patient and their specific needs. I practice in orthopaedics and aquatic therapy, have an interest in geriatrics and prior experience in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. I strive to educate and empower my patients to manage their rehabilitation journey.