Cottonwood Chronicle

Meet Kyle Westhoff: dedicated physical therapist returns to St. Mary's Health

St. Mary’s Health is pleased to welcome Kyle Westhoff, PT, back to our Therapy Services team! Kyle Westhoff is not just a skilled physical therapist, he is also an Orthopedic Certified Specialist, a

warded by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, and the only physical therapist on the Camas Prairie to have earned this prestigious certification. Kyle is a devoted member of the Cottonwood community, passionate about improving the health and well-being of its residents. For Kyle, choosing to work at SMH was an easy decision. “Cottonwood is home,” he says. “Our children are getting older, and it’s nice to work in the community where they go to school. It gives me opportunities to volunteer for their school, help with after-school activities, and work where we live.”
From Greencreek to Physical Therapy
Kyle grew up in Greencreek and attended the humble halls of Prairie High School before earning his undergraduate degree in Sport Science at the University of Idaho. He then pursued his passion for helping others through physical therapy school at Eastern Washington University’s Riverpoint Campus in Spokane, Washington.
Had he not chosen physical therapy, Kyle likely would have pursued a career in a STEM field. His initial major was metallurgical engineering, and he says he’s always been fascinated with most things that fall into this category.
A Passion for Community and Care
One of Kyle’s greatest strengths is his deep connection to the Camas Prairie. “I want the businesses, schools, farmers, ranchers, and loggers to do well,” he says. “Part of that is being able to provide a service to keep people working and healthy.”
Kyle’s commitment to providing the best care drives his enthusiasm for staying current with research. “I want to make sure that information and treatments work and are ‘best practice.’ Ensuring my diagnostics, tests, and measures are up to date is very important to me.”
While he loves his job, Kyle admits that paperwork is his least favorite part—something many healthcare providers can relate to.
Life Beyond Work
When he’s not helping patients, Kyle enjoys spending time outdoors. “I do enjoy a good Vandal tailgate, camping, and working outside,” he says. Sundays are reserved for church, a big breakfast, football, and a much-deserved nap.
Despite his busy schedule, Kyle prioritizes family. He’s been married to his wife, Whitney (Schaeffer) Westhoff, since 2009, and together they have two children: Mason (10) and Aubrey (7).
Fun Facts About Kyle
He’s never had a cup of coffee in his life.
He loves making a difference in his community by keeping people healthy and active.
Kyle Westhoff’s dedication to his profession and the Camas Prairie community make him an invaluable member of the SMH team. Whether volunteering at school activities or helping patients get back to doing what they love, Kyle is driven by his commitment to the place he calls home.