Sonnie grew up in Peru, IL, and graduated from Illinois Valley Community College with an
Associate’s Degree in Science. She then received her Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois State
University in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry. She continued her education, earning a
Master’s Degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa (now
known as Des Moines University).
Sonnie worked in a hospital setting for eleven years, working closely with area physicians and
specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation, wound care, and aquatic therapy. She is credited with
starting the first aquatic therapy program in the Illinois Valley. In 2005, she opened a private
practice - United Physical Therapy, LLC - where she enjoys
treating patients in a calm, relaxing setting with one-on-one treatment.
Sonnie is strongly committed to staying focused on new and current treatments in physical
therapy. Every year, she continues to train and stay abreast of current techniques and
procedures. Some of her continuing education has included: McKenzie Therapy for the neck and spine;
wound care with training in sharp debridement; aquatic therapy; and lymphedema
therapy.
She most recently became a LANA (Lymphology Association of North America) Certified Lymphedema Therapist, completing a combined total of almost 190 hours of training in Manual
Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), as well as two years of hands-on experience treating
patients with swelling disorders. Sonnie was also required to pass an intensive qualifying exam
sponsored by LANA. This is the highest level of Lymphedema certification available in North
America.
What's next for Sonnie? Well for starters, she has begun coursework for completing her Doctorate in
Physical Therapy.
Vicki Fitzpatrick, Office Manager
Vicki has been a valuable part of the United Physical Therapy,
LLC, team since we opened in 2005. Since she was born and raised in the Illinois Valley, she
can help you find just about anything you need in our area.
When you call or visit our clinic, she will most likely be first person you meet and will make your appointments
and answer any questions you may have. She also does an excellent job getting the information we need to make
sure you can maximize your health insurance benefits. Barb Longbons, Receptionist
Barb is a native of Tonica, IL, where she currently resides with her husband, Tom. When she's not in the
office here at United Physical Therapy, LLC, you may find her out and about motorcycle
riding with her husband. Barb is here to use her years of experience working with insurance companies to help
you work through your insurance questions and concerns. Just ask!
Barb Ryba, Receptionist
You'll probably run into Barb when Vicki and Barb
L. are enjoying some well-deserved time off. Barb is our expert at jumping in and helping out when we
need it most. She started with us in the very beginning, and is the best pinch hitter in the line
up! Oh, and did we mention that she's Sonnie's mom?
Privacy Statement United Physical Therapy, LLC, Peru, IL Phone: 815.220.8787
Sonnie grew up in Peru, IL, and graduated from Illinois Valley Community College with an
Associate’s Degree in Science. She then received her Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois State
University in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry. She continued her education, earning a
Master’s Degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa (now
known as Des Moines University).
Vicki has been a valuable part of the 
