Physical Therapy, Dry Needling & Sports Rehab in Buena Vista, CO
Physiotherapy
Dr. Walter Hafner, PT, DPT, provides physical therapy services for chronic pain and acute injuries, injury prevention and return to sport.
Program Description
Physiotherapy at Fortitude is owned and operated by Dr. Walter Hafner, PT, DPT. Walter treats chronic pain and acute injuries, helps prevent the next one, and guides athletes back to sport. Together you will build a plan of care that may include rehab exercise progression, manual therapy, and dry needling.
The goal is simple: give you the tools to return to the activities you enjoy and maximize your quality of life. Because therapy happens inside a working gym, the line between rehab and training disappears, and you keep moving the whole way through.
Doctor Of Physical Therapy
Care delivered by a licensed DPT, not a generic protocol or a quick fix.
Dry Needling
Precise treatment to release tight tissue, lower pain, and speed up recovery. Walter is certified through Levels 1 and 2 Functional Dry Needling.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on joint mobilization and manipulations, soft tissue work, and muscle energy techniques to restore movement and reduce pain.
Rehab Exercise Progression
Simple, effective home programs that target your specific deficits and progress as you heal.
Booking your visit
1. Pick your appointment
Choose a Physical Therapy Evaluation for an assessment and personalized plan of care, or a Recovery Session for treatment-focused care without a formal evaluation.
2. Book and fill out paperwork
Reserve your time and complete the intake forms before you arrive so your visit is focused on you.
3. Come ready to move
Wear athletic attire. If we are treating an upper-body issue, wear a tank top.
Fortitude Physiotherapy is self-pay. Services are paid at the time of service by cash, check, or credit/debit card. We do not bill insurance.
About your therapist
Walter completed his three-year Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Colorado in 2016. He has worked across inpatient, acute rehab, skilled nursing, and outpatient settings, treating young athletes through older adults.
That range gives him a full view of the continuum of care, from the first days after a major injury or surgery all the way to returning to high-level function and sport.

Physiotherapy FAQs
What is dry needling?
Dry needling uses a small needle similar to an acupuncture needle to directly stimulate dysfunctional tissues to restart the inflammatory process and facilitate healing.
When should I seek physical therapy or dry needling?
Physical therapy is often a great first step for pain limiting your daily life or recreation, whether it is chronic or a new injury. If PT is not the right option, Walter will refer you to the appropriate provider.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Athletic attire, such as shorts or sweatpants and a t-shirt. If you are being treated for a shoulder, neck, or upper-back issue, please wear a tank top or sports bra you are comfortable in.
Do you accept insurance?
No. Fortitude Physiotherapy does not accept insurance and cannot treat patients with Medicare, Tricare, or Medicaid. Payment is due at the time of service by cash, check, or card.
How much does it cost?
All appointment prices are listed at the time of booking. There is a 2% discount for paying with cash or check at the time of service.
How will I remember my exercises?
Your home exercise program is shared through an app called Medbridge, so it is simple to follow along between visits.
Contact Us
Have questions or not sure if this is the right fit? Reach out any time and a coach will help you find the best place to start.
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