A Few Words About Me
Ilicia is a licensed physical therapist, originally from Hamden, CT. Throughout her adolescent years she was very active competing on multiple sports teams and was also a member of the USA tap team in which she competed internationally, ultimately winning a Gold Medal in Germany. In those early years she learned key foundational skills such as discipline, hard work ethic, and team player-ship which she carried into her college years and professional career.
Ilicia attended the University of Hartford where she competed as a Division 1 athlete on the Women’s Basketball Team, making multiple trips to the national NCAA tournament. Ilicia graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2012. She furthered her education and graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2015 from the University of Hartford. As part of her doctoral research she developed an evidenced based plyometric exercise program for children with Cerebral Palsy that was clinically proven to improve function and quality of life. She worked with specialists in the (MAC) Motion Analysis Center at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Springfield, MA and provided in-services to doctors and clinicians at 3 Children’s Medical Centers throughout Connecticut to share her research. She then put her evidenced based research into practice as she worked directly with students with neurological disabilities on campus. Teaching and helping individuals from all walks of life has always been a passion for Ilicia.
Throughout her clinical experiences Ilicia had the pleasure of working in multiple settings including acute care hospitals, neuro rehab facilities, and outpatient clinics where she treated a wide variety of patients and conditions that allowed her to develop a well-rounded treatment approach to therapy. She received certifications in the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Myofascial Decompression (Cupping) Therapy which has been proven to improve pain with overuse injuries and chronic conditions.
Coming from an athletic background Ilicia particularly has an interest in treating orthopedic and sports related injuries. Being a former athlete who suffered injuries, she understands the important role that physical therapy played in her recovery and feels it allows her to connect with her patients. Ilicia has experience treating a wide variety of injuries and athletes, specializing in a muscular imbalance and manual therapy approach using current evidence-based treatments. Ilicia enjoys the teaching aspect of clinical care and educating patients on how to take an active role in their recovery. In her free time Ilicia enjoys an active lifestyle, cooking, and traveling.
Professional Skills
Testimonials
Dr. Ilicia Mathis is Amazing!! I was in a car accident the end of October and her treatment skills and expertise have made a world of difference in my recovery. My shoulder, neck, and lower back pain has decreased significantly. She creates a safe and nonjudgmental environment. She has made a very traumatic experience, manageable. Her positive energy and motivation made me a true believer in the healing process and listening to my body. If you want continuity of care, and authentic compassion Dr. Mathis is the only choice!!
I highly recommend Ilicia! I have muscle tension in my shoulders and lower back from sitting all day at work and felt so relaxed after our session. It was my first experience with cupping and I will definitely do it again! Looking forward to future sessions! Thank you!
Dr. Mathis is God sent. I had been experiencing intense knee and hip discomfort and sensitivity for several weeks. A 30 minute cupping session, followed by focused stretching and massage using Dr. Mathis’ special rubbing balm totally renewed me. After my session, all discomfort and pain had dissipated. The areas that were once sensitive and sore had finally been restored. Dr. Mathis gave me a series of stretches to do at home, to continue my progress which are already proving to be beneficial. Her hands are magic and her skills are superior. I wish I had called her earlier. If you’re in need , don’t wait! She’s your answer!!
