Sodorffs closing therapy business

SANDPOINT — After almost 40 years of helping patients, Steve and Patricia Sodorff are shutting down Bonner Physical Therapy.

With new opportunities awaiting them in Tacoma, Wash., the owners and operators of the therapy business are leaving town at the end of the month. Unfortunately, with no one lined up to purchase Bonner Physical Therapy, that means the practice will be leaving with them.

“Basically, we’re just going to close our doors,” Sodorff said. “It just made more sense to do that.”

The news comes as a disappointment to many past and present patients who depended on Sodorff’s skills while recovering from injuries or surgeries. It also represents a loss for high school athletics, as Sodorff frequently offered his services to the department. As students experienced injuries on the field, he helped patch them up to keep them in future games.

“Keeping those athletes healthy can make the difference between a successful or a disappointing season,” Sodorff said.

Although Sodorffs are sad to leave their home, the end result is worth it. Their daughter and grandson live in Tacoma, and when a chance to bring the physical therapy practice to the area opened up, the chance to spend more time with family was too good to pass up.

“It’s tough to leave Sandpoint,” Sodorff said. “This is a very bittersweet change altogether.”

It should be after 38 years of business. Shortly after graduating from the University of Idaho, Sodorff moved back to Sandpoint and began assisting physical therapist David Pogue in 1974. When Pogue had to retire due to health issues, Sodorff took over the management of Bonner Physical Therapy.

Sodorff’s ties to the community precede even his professional life. He grew up in town and graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1966, an institution that employed his father as principal for many years. Those deep roots to the community, combined with Sandpoint’s natural charms like Lake Pend Oreille and Schweitzer Mountain, will make the move doubly difficult.

Nevertheless, Tacoma will offer its own advantages. Certainly, the closeness to family will be the primary benefit. However, the Sodorffs are also looking forward to some of the area’s boating and outdoor opportunities. As far as physical therapy goes, Sodorff will work with a new practice called Advanced Integrated Movement into his work.

Those wishing to catch the Sodorffs before they leave can attend a going-away party. Set to take place at Bonner Physical Therapy from 3-7 p.m. on March 28, the event will allow the Sodorffs to give their respects before heading out.

“More than anything, we just want to thank the community for their support over the years,” Sodorff said.