DANBURY'S
PREMIER
PHYSICAL THERAPY
ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS SPECIALISTS
Danbury's only privately-owned physical therapy clinic. Expert rehabilitation for orthopedic injuries, sports medicine, and chronic conditions — guided by doctors who've worked with the NY Giants, NY Mets, and Danbury's professional sports teams.
WHY CHOOSE HAT CITY PT?
For a patient, physical therapy and rehabilitation can feel like going on a long journey. Whether you are suffering from an acute injury, chronic disease, or disability — we are the very best guides to ensure your success.
IT'S TIME TO VISIT US IF...
"Welcome to Hat City Physical Therapy. Established by Lee Day in 2017, HCPT is a patient-centered orthopedic physical therapy clinic that works to restore patients' function. Hat City PT is Danbury's ONLY privately-owned physical therapy office."
WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES
We're believers in helping as many people as possible recover from sports injuries, falls, accidents, surgeries, or rehabilitation for any reason. All other major insurance companies are accepted.
Call to Verify Coverage: (203) 748-4278OUR THERAPY SERVICES
Comprehensive orthopedic and sports rehabilitation services tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
To restore endurance, range of motion, and strength after surgery or injury. Using targeted workouts, our clinicians alleviate weaknesses and promote faster healing through increased blood flow and specialized strengthening exercises.
Athletic Training
Athletics, whether professional or recreational, can create significant strain on the human body. We take a specialized approach to each sport-related injury, including not only treatment but also effective prevention strategies.
Graston Technique
The Graston Technique uses custom-designed stainless steel instruments to perform effective manual therapy. Instruments 'comb over' fibrotic tissue, allowing clinicians to detect and treat areas of restriction with a high rate of successful results.
Concussion Therapy
Our ImPACT program for concussions includes exertional therapy and vestibular therapy to improve healing time. We also educate patients on ways to prevent future concussion injuries and manage return-to-play protocols.
Hand Therapy
Hands are vital to daily activities. Without proper hand function, everything from driving to using tools becomes nearly impossible. Our hand therapy techniques focus on rehabilitation of the hand and upper limbs using specialized methods.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping is not only reserved for athletes — it also assists those who wish to alleviate muscle tension, back ache, stiff neck, stiff shoulders, and other painful physical states through this traditional therapeutic technique.
KT Taping
Our trained staff assists with taping sessions for patients. It is important to wrap the desired area correctly to achieve maximum protection and sustained healing for injuries using KT and Leukotape techniques.
Dry Needling
Particularly effective for chronic pain, sports injuries, muscle spasms, and post-surgical recovery. Our certified practitioners use thin filiform needles to target trigger points and restore normal muscle function.
COMPLETE THERAPY SERVICES INCLUDE:
MEET OUR TEAM
Our highly trained and compassionate clinicians will make you feel at ease as soon as you walk through our doors. From orthopedic care to CPR training, our facility was designed to suit your specific needs.
Dr. Eric Schmitt
DPT, BS Exercise Physiology
Orthopedic Physical Therapist, Practice Owner
Dr. Eric Schmitt has dedicated the last 18 years to transforming lives through orthopedic care. With a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from Adelphi University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree cum laude from Long Island University, his commitment to excellence is unmatched. He is a certified Dry Needle Practitioner and Certified Upper Quarter Physical Therapist through Johns Hopkins University.
Highlights
- Medical Director — Danbury Diesel Arena Football
- Medical Director — Danbury Hat Tricks Hockey
- Medical Director — Danbury Westerners Baseball
- Certified Dry Needle Practitioner
- Certified Upper Quarter PT (Johns Hopkins)
Dr. William Lee Day
PT, DPT, MS, ATC, CSCS, EMT
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Founder
Dr. Lee Day founded Hat City Physical Therapy in 2017 with a vision for patient-centered orthopedic care. He holds a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, certification in Athletic Training, a Master's in Exercise Physiology, and NSCA strength and conditioning certification. He is also ITPT and ITAT certified through ImPACT.
Highlights
- New York Football Giants — Athletic Trainer
- New York Mets — Consulting Athletic Trainer
- World League of American Football
- Bridgeport Bluefish & Sound Tigers
- Medical Director — Danbury Titans & Westerners
Robert E. Douglass
MSPT, ATC
Physical Therapist
Mr. Douglass is a highly respected Physical Therapist with over 25 years of dedicated experience helping patients overcome a wide range of challenges. As a Certified Athletic Trainer, he has empowered youth, college, and semi-professional athletes to achieve their highest potential. Rob is also certified in dry needling.
Highlights
- 25+ Years Clinical Experience
- Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC)
- Certified in Dry Needling
- MS Physical Therapy — Sacred Heart University
- BS Athletic Training — Plymouth State College
Sandy
Hat City PT Staff
Director of Client Relations & Operations
Sandy is a cornerstone of the Hat City Physical Therapy experience, ensuring every patient receives seamless, compassionate service from their very first call to their final session. Her dedication to operational excellence keeps the clinic running smoothly.
Highlights
- Client Relations Management
- Clinic Operations & Scheduling
- Insurance Coordination
- Patient Onboarding
- Team Leadership
Michelle
Hat City PT Staff
Director of Client Relations & Operations
Michelle brings warmth and professionalism to every patient interaction at Hat City Physical Therapy. As a Director of Client Relations & Operations, she ensures the highest standard of care coordination and a welcoming environment for all patients.
Highlights
- Client Relations Management
- Clinic Operations & Scheduling
- Insurance Coordination
- Patient Onboarding
- Team Leadership
Ashley
Hat City PT Staff
Physical Therapy Technician
Ashley is a valued member of the Hat City Physical Therapy team, providing compassionate hands-on support to patients throughout their recovery journey. Her warm, welcoming approach helps patients feel at ease from their very first visit.
Highlights
- Patient Care & Support
- Rehabilitation Assistance
- Therapeutic Exercise Guidance
- Patient Education
- Clinic Operations
Lucas
Hat City PT Staff
Physical Therapy Technician
Lucas is an energetic and dedicated member of the Hat City Physical Therapy team. He assists patients through their rehabilitation programs with enthusiasm and care, helping to create a motivating environment that supports faster recovery.
Highlights
- Patient Care & Support
- Rehabilitation Assistance
- Therapeutic Exercise Guidance
- Patient Education
- Clinic Operations
CONDITIONS WE TREAT
Whatever injury or ailment brings you to Hat City Physical Therapy, our compassionate and experienced staff will be glad to offer support and guidance as you receive the best quality treatment available.
Athletic Injuries
Sports-related injuries from professional or recreational athletics, including sprains, strains, tendinitis, and overuse injuries. We provide specialized treatment and prevention strategies for all sports.
Neck & Back Pain
Chronic or acute neck and back pain from disc herniation, muscle strain, poor posture, or degenerative conditions. Our targeted approach addresses the root cause for lasting relief.
Fractures
Post-fracture rehabilitation to restore strength, range of motion, and function. We work closely with your orthopedic surgeon to follow proper healing protocols and timelines.
Dislocations
Joint dislocation recovery including shoulder, hip, and knee. Careful rehabilitation to restore stability, strength, and confidence in the affected joint.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation following joint replacements, ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, and other orthopedic surgeries. Protocol-based care for optimal outcomes.
Workplace Injuries
Work-related injuries including repetitive stress injuries, lifting injuries, and occupational musculoskeletal disorders. We help you return to work safely and efficiently.
Auto Accident Injuries
Whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and other trauma from motor vehicle accidents. We provide thorough documentation and treatment to support your recovery and insurance claims.
Chronic Conditions
Long-term management of conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain syndromes. We develop individualized programs to improve function and quality of life.
START YOUR RECOVERY TODAY
Start your rehabilitation journey with us today, and you will be well on your way to expanding your boundaries and restoring your health.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY
"Dr. Eric and the crew are amazing. They know exactly what is needed to get you back from injury. I can't say enough good things about them — they really care about your recovery. We followed their plan and 9 weeks post surgery were back to 100%."
"Amazing experience at Hat City for my lower back treatment. I've had such positive experiences with Rob, Dr. Eric, Lucas, and of course Dr. Lee; they are all knowledgeable, caring & truly invested in your recovery. Michelle at the front desk is wonderful too!"
"Eric and Rob are both amazing doctors to work with. I had major shoulder surgery and it was a rough recovery. Eric gave me my shoulder back! I can't thank him enough for his knowledge, comfort, patience and for working with me."
"Excellent team of experienced, professional and compassionate therapists. Hat City PT got me through two knee replacements. I have immense gratitude and appreciation for their top tier service."
"Hat City PT is truly the best! From the moment you walk in, the staff make you feel welcomed and supported. Thanks to their care and dedication, I've seen incredible improvement in my recovery from a knee injury."
"After multiple places and treatments over a span of a year, have not met any place better than Hat City Physical Therapy. Very knowledgeable and precise treatments. Would definitely recommend 100% for any physical therapy needs."
STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY
Our modern clinic in Danbury, CT is fully equipped to handle everything from post-surgical rehabilitation to elite sports performance training. Experience the difference of a privately-owned practice that puts patients first.
OUR AFFILIATIONS
Hat City Physical Therapy is located in Danbury, CT, but has affiliations across the country. Dr. Schmitt and his team are the go-to choice for many local and regional sports teams and youth athletes.
ImPACT CONCUSSION THERAPY
Concussion is often overlooked in Youth Sports today. Hat City Physical Therapy follows the ImPACT Concussion Management Model to limit the likelihood of long-term injury. Returning back to sports after suffering a concussion can be very risky — it takes a lot of post-injury testing to determine if the athlete is ready to return to the field.
Properly treating concussions can be the difference between returning to a successful career in sports and suffering multiple injuries to the head.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS
American Physical Therapy Association
Graston Technique Certified
National Athletic Trainers' Association
American Red Cross
National Strength & Conditioning Association
ImPACT Concussion Management
SPORTS TEAMS WE WORK WITH
YOUTH ATHLETICS & NEARBY SCHOOLS
New Fairfield High School
Abbott Tech
Immaculate High School
Bethel Public Schools
Newtown Baseball
Danbury Youth Baseball
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
Ready to start your recovery? Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation with one of our expert physical therapists.
CONTACT INFORMATION
INSURANCE ACCEPTED
We strive to accept all major insurance companies. Call us to verify your coverage before your first appointment. View accepted plans →