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I had given up on running—then I found Zenith

Sara S

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Dr. Mariel Hammond desires to promote a healing environment where all patients can truly understand their diagnosis, work together with their providers to improve their outcomes, and return to function with a sense of accountability that empowers them. Mariel has studied many realms of physical therapy assessment, including Postural Restoration Institute (PRI), McKenzie, Maitland, Sahrmann, and Functional Range Systems that allow for a full body approach to assessment and treatment. She utilizes movement screening approaches such as the FMS and the SFMA for return to sport performance and life, which ensures your treatment will help reduce future risk of injury and pain. Approach to treatment Every person is different, in the way that they move, heal, and respond to feedback. Dr. Mariel makes education a priority to ensure that patients take responsibility for their own care and understand the amazing power of self healing that the body can achieve when placed in the right environment. Personalized home exercise programs will be given to each patient, and regular communication with their therapist will allow the patient to reach these outcomes at their own pace. Mariel meets patients at their fitness level, treating the weekend warrior all the way up to the professional athlete. Learning first how to move appropriately, and then load the body optimally, each patient will leave their appointments with a better understanding of how resilient and powerful our bodies can be. She has a particular interest in youth development training and injury reduction, coaching many levels of youth from elementary to college and beyond. Education Dr. Mariel obtained her undergraduate degree at the University of Central Florida, specializing in anatomy, biomechanics and fitness training. She continued her education, getting her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at Duke University, where she studied under some of the best physical therapists in the world. Learning from them has been a profound lesson, and she strives to continue her education through courses that spark her passion, and keep up with the ever-changing evidence based practice. Particular interests include sports performance, pain science and orthopaedic injuries. Constantly curious about longevity and reaching her own potential, Mariel has also invested many hours of research on how to improve all body systems - from sleep, nutrition, mental health and performance. A session with Mariel could touch on all of these aspects and more, with up to date interventions that keep you striving to be the best version of yourself. Outside of Work Mariel is an avid adventurist, exploring the many wonders that the PNW provides. Growing up in Florida, she did not have access to beautiful mountains and enjoys the hiking and climbing that nature provides. Basketball was her passion growing up, and she was a high school standout before moving on to UCF where she began to play Ultimate Frisbee competitively. She is now an Elite Level Ultimate Frisbee player, becoming just one of 26 women representing team USA in the Worlds Ultimate and Guts Championships in 2020. She has continued her career with the Oregon Women's club team, Oregon Schwa, which placed 3rd in the nation last year. Don't hesitate to find out how you can get involved with your local league as she loves to talk shop!

Mariel Hammond

Physical Therapist, Eugene, OR

May 16, 2025

I’m not exaggerating when I say Dr. Mariel Hammond saved my life. I was feeling really discouraged about an ankle injury that hadn’t healed well, even after physical therapy elsewhere, and I thought it was too far gone for me to resume activities I loved without giving me intense pain.

From our very first session, Mariel gave me hope—she’s incredibly knowledgeable, and I had reduced pain and increased mobility right away. Her mix of hands-on tissue manipulation and customized, progressive exercises has made running feel possible again, something I had totally given up on. I’m also learning so much more about my body and physical patterns through working with her.

If you’re dealing with pain or a tough injury, don’t hesitate to check out the team at Zenith—I can’t recommend them (especially Dr. Mariel) enough!

What Clients Are Saying About Our Rehab PT

From weekend warriors to elite athletes, our clients trust Zenith for expert care and real results. Here is what they had to say about their experience with our Rehab PT—tailored support that helped them move, train, and feel their best.

Alex’s dedication and care made all the difference

Rarely do you meet someone so well suited for their job as Alex is for physical training. His kindness, commitment, and patience to helping clients grow in strength and confidence is unmatched. The passion for his work is clear and felt by everyone in the gym. He worked tirelessly to find solutions to shoulder and neck issues I struggled with for over 10 years. He never gave up even when I was frustrated with my own progress. I am able to do exercises I never thought possible, and I can dance the night away harder than I did in my 20s. I will forever be grateful for his determination and genuine caring attitude. Alex is a special human and I can promise your life will be better for it if you choose to work with him. I would give him 10 stars if it was possible. Thank you Alex and the Zenith team!

Candy L

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Supported Teen Through Shin Splints & First Half Marathon

Jenn Randall and the team at Zenith did an excellent job supporting my teen through shin splints and coaching her through her first half marathon. Would highly recommend Jenn and Zenith Performance!!

Jennifer C

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Knowledgeable, Caring, and Committed

Dr. Mariel Hammond is very knowledgeable, caring, and committed to her practice. She does a great job explaining her approach, allowing you to get the most out of your PT sessions.

Christine T

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