Manual Therapy.
Clinical Reasoning.
Healing at the Source.
About Dr. Lucas
Fellowship-trained physical therapist, educator, and thought leader delivering expert hands-on care, clinical insight, and training that transforms movement and mindset.
I was born and raised in Brazil and moved to the United States in 2005. I earned my Doctorate of Physical Therapy and completed residency training in both Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy at the Catholic University in Campinas, Brazil. I gained extensive experience while working with patients of all ages with orthopedic issues, as well as professional athletes. In the US, I earned my Masters of Science degree in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation at the University of Pittsburgh, also serving as a graduate student researcher and participated as a trial coordinator in a large-scale knee osteoarthritis study.
A lifelong learner, I continue to enhance my skills in spinal manipulation through postgraduate training. I am fellowship-trained in Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy by the AAOMPT, which is widely regarded as the leading organization in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy (OMPT). Fellows of the AAOMPT are known for providing the highest level of musculoskeletal care through advanced manual therapy practice. I have advanced training by the Physical Therapy Board of Craniofacial and Cervical Therapeutics (PTBCCT) in the treatment of TMJ disorders. I am certified in Myofascial Trigger Point Dry Needling.
When I am not treating patients, I love playing soccer, volleyball, and guitar. I also enjoy cooking, going to the beach, and spending time with my kids.
Clinical Focus and Expertise
Orthopedic rehabilitation
When your case isn’t straightforward, your care shouldn’t be either.
I work with patients recovering from orthopedic surgery or struggling with complex musculoskeletal issues that haven’t improved with standard care. My treatment is guided by advanced clinical reasoning and hands-on techniques—not cookie-cutter protocols.
You’ll receive a clear plan, a focused path forward, and one-on-one care that adapts as you progress. Your care plan will be built for long-term results that last.
Ideal for: post-op recovery (spine surgery—neck/low back, ACL, rotator cuff, joint replacement), failed prior rehab, chronic movement issues, complex pain.
Manual physical therapy
Have you hit a plateau in traditional rehab? Do you need more focused care to resolve persistent issues?
As a fellowship-trained manual therapist, I use advanced hands-on techniques to address mobility restrictions and tissue dysfunction at the source. I pair each intervention with movement retraining that targets neuromuscular control, postural integrity, and motor pattern efficiency—so you don’t just feel better, you move better.
Manual therapies may include joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue release, dry needling, and nerve gliding.
Ideal for: severe joint pain and stiffness, limited range of motion, nerve-related symptoms, imbalanced movement patterns that have developed over time
TMJ, orofacial pain, headache
I offer skilled therapy for complex TMJ, orofacial and headache conditions that require clinical nuance.
I work with surgeons and specialists to collaborate on care before and after TMJ surgery, and also specialize in chronic TMJ, orofacial pain, and cervicogenic headaches.
Each session is one-on-one, focused on identifying the true source of your pain or mobility issues, and restoring health and function through manual therapy and other techniques such as postural strategies.
Ideal for: pre- and post-op jaw function, advanced TMJ, bruxism, cervicogenic headaches, and chronic facial tension.
Schedule PT with Dr. Lucas
Flexible, patient-centered care
Dr. Lucas offers private sessions at mutually convenient locations in the Greater Raleigh area—in-home, shared spaces, and wellness studios. This flexible model is designed to prioritize your comfort, privacy, and convenience.
You can also find Dr. Lucas at Brunswick Physical Therapy in Cary, North Carolina.
Speaking & Clinical Consulting
Lucas also works with clinics, conferences, and professional programs to teach, mentor, and challenge the next generation of physical therapists.
Available for:
Keynotes & Conference Panels
CEU Workshops (Manual Therapy, Clinical Reasoning)
Consulting for Clinical Programs & Fellowship Development
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Contact Dr. Lucas
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