We want you to get the care you deserve
Meet Dr. Rakestraw
Dr. Natalie Rakestraw is a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with over 15 years of experience helping people move better and feel better. She began her career in Boston after earning her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the highly respected MGH Institute of Health Professions.
While in Boston, she worked at top-ranked hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital and Spaulding Rehabilitation, collaborating with leading orthopedic and sports medicine specialists. She later returned home to Northern Virginia to continue growing her career and serving her local community.
During her time at Body Dynamics in Falls Church, Dr. Rakestraw worked with professional dancers and performers, including The Washington Ballet, where she co-directed their wellness program. She also provided backstage care for performers at the Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Ford’s Theatre, and Shakespeare Theatre.
Dr. Rakestraw became a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist in 2015 and has advanced training in manual therapy techniques such as dry needling and cupping. She’s also passionate about teaching and mentoring, including working as a Teaching Assistant at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, and serving as Adjunct and Teaching Faculty for the Inova Orthopedic Residency Program.
With a lifelong passion for sports and wellness—from her time as an “All Met” athlete in field hockey to leading wellness programs at James Madison University—Dr. Rakestraw brings deep experience and energy to her work as a physical therapist.
She lives in Vienna, VA with her husband and three daughters, and loves staying active through running, Pilates, and cheering on her kids' sports teams.
Dr. Rakestraw is committed to providing personalized, expert care that supports each patient’s full recovery—and she’s proud to offer that care to the Northern Virginia community.