Our Team

Anna Lombardi

Anna Lombardi

(PT, DPT, LMT)

Physical Therapist – IPA Manhattan

Where were you born and what has been your living story as it relates to Physical Therapy?

I was born and raised in Italy, where my journey with movement began through dance. I pursued a professional dance career performing in Italy and throughout Europe before eventually moving to New York City to continue dancing and expand my training. Living and working as a dancer exposed me to both the beauty and physical demands of movement, and like many performers, I became familiar with injuries, rehabilitation, and the importance of understanding the body. Over time my interest in movement expanded beyond performance. I transitioned into teaching dance, Pilates, and yoga, and later became a licensed massage therapist. Working closely with people in these settings deepened my curiosity about how the body functions and how thoughtful rehabilitation can help people return to the activities they love. This ultimately led me to pursue a career in physical therapy.

I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from SUNY Downstate Medical Center in New York City, where I further developed my interest in orthopedic rehabilitation, manual therapy, and movement analysis.

What is your favorite thing about practicing Physical Therapy?

What I love most about practicing physical therapy is the connection I build with patients and the opportunity to help them reconnect with their bodies and move with greater confidence. Having spent much of my life studying movement through dance and teaching, I appreciate how meaningful it is when someone begins to move more freely and without pain.

Watching patients regain confidence in their movement and return to the activities they enjoy is the most rewarding part of my work.

SELECTED ACHIEVEMENTS

  • Graduated SUNY Downstate Medical Center with a Doctor of Physical Therapy
  • Licensed Massage Therapist – New York State