how it works
About CIHP
For nearly 20 years, Central Institute for Human Performance (CIHP) has been providing solutions to pain, injury, and performance where others could not. We have worked with elite level performers in professional sports and the military, and also non-athletic populations from around the world who have not been able to resolve their pain and neuromusculoskeletal problems until they came to CIHP.
All stars, MVPs, top level Navy Seals, World Series Champions, Stanley Cup Champions, Medal of Honor recipient, PGA Player of the Year, No. 1 ranked golfers, Hall of Fame MLB pitchers, Hall of Fame golfers, Broadway performers and professional dancers, soccer teams, No. 1 ranked squash professionals and multiple Olympians have all excelled at the highest level under CIHP’s care. This also includes top performing executives and physicians of all types.
CIHP also caters seamlessly in transforming non-athletic populations from all across the world who have not been able to resolve their pain and neuromusculoskeletal problems after many attempts from other providers and institutions.
COMPREHENSIVE AND FOCUSED
The 4 pillars of commitment
Treatment
You cannot sustain or gain health with low quality or no treatment. Treatment includes physical assessment and procedures to identify unwanted tension and reduce tightness, weakness, inflammation and pain that is connected to the identified tension. Chiropractic treatment used to facilitate neuromuscular activation and trunk engagement to reduce pain and improve overall function and quality of movement on the gym floor and throughout daily life.
Training
You cannot out-treat poor training. Exercising and training are at the top of the list for improving health and longevity. Doing the exercises and training that is right for you is essential. Resilience or performance based training based on individual client’s needs/desires. Programs developed based upon unique assessments and specific goals set by the client and solutions team.
Nutrition
You cannot out-train a bad diet. There are many proposed nutrition and diet approaches. The key is committing to the one that is tailored to you, meets your needs, and that you can sustain. Specialized assessments completed upon intake and at regular intervals throughout a client’s journey at CIHP further ensures positive outcomes.
Knowledge & Experience
You cannot thrive with poor thinking. The more knowledgeable you are about health, the more healthy you will be. The more knowledgeable you are about pain, the less pain you will experience. The team at CIHP is educated on training, nutrition, functional movement, overall healthy life habits, and aims to share this wealth of knowledge with each client in order to help them reach their goals and improve their overall quality of life.
Back pain & CIHP visiting consultation
Central Institute for Human Performance uses proprietary assessments to create unique results that other forms of healthcare rarely achieve. Having two clinicians under one roof with 20+ years of experience alongside pioneers in the industry CIHP provides distinct care to solve pain and treat the entire person.
CAREERS
Interested in joining the CIHP team?
As a dynamic, growing environment, CIHP is always searching for talented individuals seeking to better the lives of CIHP clients, support (and be supported by) their team, and continue driving our purpose forward. Learn more at the link below.
Clayton Skaggs
Dr. of Chiropractic
In the early 90’s Dr. Clayton Skaggs established a private practice in St. Louis, Missouri. While he was helping patients and working as a post-doctoral instructor to chiropractic physicians, dentists and physical therapists, he knew he needed to expand what he was doing for patients and that exercise and nutrition were missing links. A major turning point in his career came when he attended a workshop in Peoria, Illinois where Dr. Vladimir Janda, a neurologist from Prague, Czech Republic, was lecturing on rehabilitation. Dr. Skaggs often cites Dr. Janda as “blending art and science to the procedures and applications of traditional orthopedics and rehabilitation.”
After that meeting, Dr. Skaggs traveled to Prague annually for over a decade to study with Dr. Janda, Dr. Karel Lewit, and physical therapists at Charles University. Dr. Lewit would become his most influential mentor and our clinics’ namesake. Drs. Janda and Lewit, both neurologists, are now recognized as leading pioneers in rehabilitation and sports medicine. As Dr. Skaggs often relates, because the physicians and therapists in Prague did not have the means for high tech medicine or diagnostics, they mastered the art and science of observing, listening, and feeling the needs of the patient.
The practice then moved to Clayton, Missouri where exercise and nutrition were expanded. Over the next 10 years Dr. Skaggs was on eight university-based post-doctoral faculties, including Clinical Research Professor at Logan University and Adjunct Assistant Professor at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Jim George joined the practice located in Clayton (then known as Clayton Physical Medicine) first as a student, then intern, then associate. He is now the Clinic Director and partner at the location in Kirkwood, Missouri.
During this academic period, Drs. Skaggs and George led a National Institutes of Health (NIH) randomized trial that resulted in publication of one of the largest studies on low back pain in pregnant women. Additionally, they were authors in eight different books and over 20 published papers on sports medicine and rehabilitation.
While only a 1500 square foot facility, the sports and performance care grew and attracted professional and elite athletes from around the world. The concept of a larger institute began to take shape. Following the purpose of creating an institute known throughout the world as a place to go when injured or wanting to improve performance, the Central Institute for Human Performance (CIHP) was formed in the historic J. Milton Turner school building in Kirkwood, Missouri in 2003.
Today, CIHP continues to evolve and expand its reach. As part of our certification and alliance with Prof. Stuart McGill, individuals with back pain come from across the country to seek our care. Prof. McGill is an influential colleague, mentor, and friend of Dr. Skaggs’ and now of CIHP. Dr. McGill and Dr. Skaggs have taught post-doctoral programs and conducted clinical research together for nearly 20 years. Dr. McGill has most recently contributed to the development of our Movement and Behavior Imprint (MBI).
Through our non-resident program, we are training and consulting individuals from California to New York to Texas. Our team now consists of chiropractic physicians, physical therapists, certified athletic trainers, strength coaches, dietitians and client advocates. To date, Dr. Skaggs and the teams at CIHP have worked with World Series Champions, Stanley Cup Champions, Elite military, PGA Champions, NFL, NHL and MLB All Stars and thousands of professional and elite athletes. We continue with what Dr. Skaggs started: creating a place where people can choose their health, resilience and performance. We recognize knowledge is our most valuable asset and we must have the courage to continue to ask questions of our work, to teach, and as Karel Lewit shared with Dr. Skaggs, “to feel the needs of our patients and clients.”
William Bunge
Dr. of Chiropractic
Credentials: DC, ATC
Previous Experience
Chiropractor at private practice for 3 years.
Education
• Doctor of Chiropractic, Logan University
• Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, Nova Southeastern University
Professional Certifications
- Board Certified Chiropractor and Athletic Trainer
- State of Missouri Licensed Acupuncture
- Full Body Certified Active Release Technique (ART)
- McGill Method Certified Practitioner
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, DNS, Manual Therapy, Nutrition, McGill Methods
Hometown: Springfield, Missouri
Hobbies: Triathlons, Swimming, Cooking, Family Time
James W. George
Credentials: DC
Previous Experience
• Instructor, Logan University, College of Chiropractic
• Adjunct Instructor, Washington University School of Medicine
Education
• Doctor of Chiropractic, Logan University, College of Chiropractic
• Bachelor of Science, Truman State University
Professional Certifications
• State of Missouri Licensed Chiropractic Physician
• Board Certified in Acupuncture
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, McGill Methods, Manual Therapy, Acupuncture
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Hobbies: Family Time, Fishing, Outdoor Activities
Kelly Scheller
Practitioner
Credentials: BS-PT
Previous Experience
- St. Anthony’s Medical Center, Inpatient and Outpatient Physical Therapy Services
• Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Inpatient and Outpatient Physical Therapy Services
Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Manager of Physical Medicine Services.
Education
• Bachelor of Science, St. Louis University
Professional Certifications
• State of Missouri Licensed Physical Therapist
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation and Personal Training
Hometown: Quincy, Illinois
Hobbies: Cycling, Spinning, Watching High School Sports.
Greg Hauck
Operations Manager/Practitioner
Credentials: M.Ed., ATC, LAT, CSCS, NASM-CES
Previous Experience
- Head Athletic Trainer, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Club
- Assistant Athletic Trainer, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Club
- Minor League Rehab Coordinator and Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Oakland Athletic Baseball Club
Education
• Master of Education, University of Phoenix
• Bachelor of Science, Southern Oregon University
Professional Certifications
• Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer
• State of Missouri Licensed Athletic Trainer
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Patient and Client Assessments and Care, Furthering Knowledge through Educational Courses
Hometown: Ashland, Oregon
Hobbies: Family Time, Yard Work and Reading
Sarah Klassen
Practitioner
Credentials: PICP Level 2
Previous Experience
- Over 10 years of experience under CIHP philosophy and training
- Internship at CIHP postgraduate
Education
• Bachelor of Science, Missouri Southern State University
Professional Certifications
- Training Certifications – PICP Level 2 & Biosignature Modulation Level 2
- American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Performance Training and Nutrition
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Hobbies: Experimenting with different recipes, weight training, reading, hanging pool side, recreational soccer.
Tim Sirmon
Lead Rehabilitation Practitioner
Credentials: PT, DPT, OCS
Previous Experience
- Physical Therapist at Encore Sports Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama.
Education
• Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of South Alabama
• Bachelor of Science, Louisiana State University
Professional Certifications
• Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy
• State of Missouri Licensed Physical Therapist
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, Human Performance, McGill Methods, Methodology Development
Hometown: Luling, Louisiana
Hobbies: Family, reading, learning new things.
Melissa Filla
Credentials: M.Ed., ATC, LAT
Previous Experience
• Assistant Athletic Trainer, University of Illinois, Men’s & Women’s Gymnastics
• Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer, University of Missouri, Women’s Gymnastics
Education
• Master of Education, University of Missouri
• Bachelor of Science, Eastern Illinois University
Professional Certifications
• Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer
• State of Missouri Licensed Athletic Trainer
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, Athletic Training, Nutrition, McGill Methods
Hometown: Bloomington, Illinois
Hobbies: Outdoor activities, Cooking, Gardening, Antiques, Family Time
Todd Kohlbecker
Previous Experience
30 years of leading and guiding teams for improved customer value and experience.
Education
• University of Missouri – St. Louis, BA
• Webster University, MA
Hometown: Decatur, Illinois
Hobbies: Travel, Experiencing the great outdoors, Spending time with family and friends
Chelsey McMichael
Credentials: CSCS, USAW-L1, CPR
Previous Experience
• University of Missouri Saint Louis: Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Lindenwood University: Olympic Weightlifting coach, Athletic Performance student coach
• UnCharted Gym: Manager, Olympic Weightlifting Coach
• Saint Louis University: Strength and Conditioning Intern
Education
• M.S. Human Performance, Focus in Strength and Conditioning
• B.S. Exercise Science, Minor in Strength and Conditioning
Professional Certifications
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Athletic Performance, Adaptive training, Olympic Weightlifting
Hometown: Maryville, MO
Hobbies: Art, Hiking/Traveling, Longboarding, Rock Climbing, Thrift shopping
Trey Adams
Practitioner
Credentials: NASM – CPT
Previous Experience
- Personal Trainer in a Private Studio Facility (one-on-one, semi-private, & group training)
- Integrated Health Specialist in a Mental Health and Medical Clinic
Education
- Bachelor of Science, Missouri State University
Professional Certifications
- EXOS Performance Specialist
• FMS Level 1
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Strength Training, Nutrition, Mental Health
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Hobbies: Strength Training, Hiking, Traveling, Hockey, Soccer
Joey Penn
Practitioner
Credentials: CSCS
Previous Experience:
- Strength & Conditioning Intern with Murray State University’s Athletics (all sports)
• Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach at Barwis Methods. - 5+ years of running a personal training business.
Education:
- Bachelor of Science, Murray State University
Professional Certifications:
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Athletic development, Powerlifting, Injury prevention
Hometown: Collinsville, Illinois
Hobbies: Camping, Hiking, Traveling, Concerts, and Live Sporting Events.
Hannah
CIHP Front Desk Team
Professional Interests: Nutrition
Hometown: Waterloo, IL
Hobbies: Pilates, Hiking, Trying out new restaurants, Live Music, and Cooking
Mavis
CIHP Front Desk Team
My goal in life is to help people. Rather you need a smile, or need to make an appointment, I’m happy to do it. I also enjoy working with kids, but anything that gets me interacting with people is what I love to do.
Hobbies: Shopping, Art, and Reading
Hometown: St. Louis
Kris
Service Manager
I am a country girl who grew up on a farm in rural Missouri. I have one son in middle school who is a dedicated student and athlete. My husband coaches youth baseball and football for each of my son’s teams. I am also a dog mom to two German Shepherds and a rescue puppy.
Hometown: Montgomery City, MO
Hobbies: Family, Weight Lifting, Reading, Archery, Target practice & Hunting
Melissa Dawidowski
Credentials: M.S., ATC, LAT
Previous Experience
• Athletic Trainer/Physician Extender, Mercy Sports Medicine
• Athletic Trainer/Physician Extender, BJC Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Education
• Master of Science, Lindenwood University
• Bachelor of Science, Central Methodist University
Professional Certifications
• Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer
• State of Missouri/Illinois Licensed Athletic Trainer
• American Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aide Instructor
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, Injury Prevention
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Hobbies: Walking/hiking, Reading
Jessi Behymer
Practitioner
Credentials: MS, ATC, LAT
Education
• Master of Science in Fitness Management, Missouri Baptist University
• Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, Missouri State University
Professional Certifications
• Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer
• State of Missouri Licensed Athletic Trainer
• American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation, Athletic Training, Nutrition
Hometown: St. Peters, Missouri
Hobbies: running, baking, outdoor adventures with family
Lisa Youngblood
Client Experience Manager
Bringing a smile to someone’s face brings me the greatest joy.
Previous Experience
- Over a decade of experience in a clinical environment.
Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends. Watching sports. Playing volleyball.
Megan Moose
Credentials: PT, DPT
Previous Experience
- Physical Therapist at Joint Effort Physical Therapy
- Physical Therapist at Wellness Physical Therapy
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at Truman State University
- Doctorate of Physical Therapy at A.T. Still University- Arizona School of Health Science
Professional Certification
- State of Missouri Licensed Physical Therapist
- American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interests: Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention, McGill Methods, and Research
Hometown: O’ Fallon, Missouri
Hobbies: Cooking, Gardening, Water Skiing, Hiking, and Reading
Marcia Schmeerbauch
Hometown: Lexington, Ohio
Hobbies: Walking and talking with friends, a good book, cooking (no recipe required).
Logan Radik
Credentials:
USAW-1
Previous Experience:
Assistant Men’s Wrestling Coach, Maryville University
Assistant Men’s Wrestling Strength Coach, Maryville University
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Maryville University
Master of Science, Logan University
Professional Certifications:
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Certification
American Heart Association CPR/AED
Professional Interest:
Strength Training, Nutrition, Sports Performance, Sleep Hygiene
Hometown:
Gretna, NE
Hobbies:
Hunting, Fishing, Cooking, Wrestling, Movies, History
Caleb Little
Previous Experience
- Strength and Conditioning Intern with the University of Kansas football team
Education
- Bachelor of Science, University of Kansas
Professional Interests: Performance Enhancement, Longevity, Nutrition
Hometown: Columbia, IL
Hobbies: Traveling, Training, Cooking, Reading, and playing various musical instruments
Delia Smith
Dr. of Chiropractic
Credentials: DC, ATC
Previous Experience
- Associate Chiropractor at a private practice in Minnesota
- Athletic Trainer for Mercy Sports Medicine and St. Louis Athletic Training Services – Hockey and Lacrosse
Education
- BS Athletic Training from Lindenwood University
- Doctor of Chiropractic from Logan University
Professional Certifications
- Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer
- CPR/AED Certified
- State of Missouri Licensed Athletic Trainer, Chiropractor
- Licensed in Acupuncture
Professional Interests: Sports Medicine, Concussions, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, Manual Therapy, Research
Hometown: Kansas City, MO
Hobbies: Figure skating, coaching, hiking, science podcasts, and watching hockey (I’m a Montreal Canadiens fan, but I support the Blues too!)