Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Marr
Hi Deanna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve been a Florida native my whole life, growing up in the Tampa Bay area near the strawberry fields of Hillsborough County. I graduated from Plant City High School and, like many kids, spent time imagining what I’d grow up to be. But my journey was uniquely shaped by my early health experiences.
At just five years old, I was diagnosed with Aortic Stenosis and became a regular patient at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida. When I was 13, I became one of the first patients to undergo a valvuloplasty on my aortic valve—a groundbreaking procedure at the time. That experience sparked something in me: a desire to help others overcome their challenges, just as I had.
I channeled that passion into pursuing Occupational Therapy at Florida International University. OT is all about helping people return to the meaningful activities in their lives—their “occupations”—whether it’s daily living tasks like dressing and bathing, work responsibilities, or hobbies that bring joy. I loved the idea of empowering people to reclaim their independence and identity.
After graduating in 1999, I returned to Tampa Bay and began working in skilled nursing facilities, caring for older adults. I found their stories and wisdom inspiring and became specialized in seating, positioning, and contracture management to enhance their quality of life and safety.
One of the amazing things about being an OT is its flexibility—you can adapt to meet different needs while continuing to help people. I worked with children in schools for a while, but life had other plans. In 2017, I underwent open-heart surgery to repair my aorta. That experience reaffirmed my connection to skilled nursing and deepened my understanding of the healing journey.
In 2019, as Medicare policies shifted and the global pandemic reshaped healthcare, I felt called to pivot once again. After navigating my own pelvic floor dysfunction and taking medical leave, I decided to open my own practice. Today, as an OT specializing in Women’s Health and Pelvic Floor Therapy, I help women reclaim their confidence, comfort, and quality of life.
It’s been a winding path, but every turn has reinforced my belief in the power of resilience, adaptability, and the human spirit
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My health challenges have profoundly shaped who I am and the heart of my business. If I hadn’t faced struggles navigating the medical and insurance systems, I never would have dreamed of starting my own practice. My passion for Women’s Health stems from my personal journey with pelvic floor dysfunction—a topic that many women shy away from discussing. This silence often prevents them from seeking or even realizing that help is available.
While my MBA in Healthcare Administration gave me a strong foundation, nothing truly prepares you for the realities of running and managing your own practice. Building a reliable network has been key to my growth, both personally and professionally. Joining professional organizations has not only expanded my connections but also boosted my confidence and sharpened my networking skills. It’s been a journey of learning, resilience, and finding the right people to support the vision of my practice.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Restorative Solutions is an Occupational Therapy practice serving adult clients in Palm Harbor. We work with individuals needing therapy for arm and hand injuries, as well as those managing neurological conditions. Recently, we expanded our services to include specialized pelvic floor therapy, where we help both women and men overcome a wide range of pelvic floor dysfunctions, including urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, and post-surgical recovery. Our approach is rooted in personalized, one-on-one care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals. Whether it’s in-person, virtual, or in-home sessions, we prioritize accessibility and convenience to ensure every patient feels supported and empowered throughout their healing journey.
What truly sets us apart is our focus on holistic, evidence-based care. As therapists with dual specializations in orthopedic and pelvic health, we use advanced techniques like myofascial release, biofeedback, targeted strengthening programs, and pain management modalities to create comprehensive treatment plans. This personalized and expert approach makes a lasting impact on our patients’ lives.
Our brand stands out because it’s deeply personal. Restorative Solutions was born from my own health struggles and the challenges I faced finding effective care. This perspective shapes every aspect of our practice. We understand the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek help, and we are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment for our patients. As a lifelong learner, I am passionate about staying at the forefront of my field, which allows me to provide the highest quality care for every client.
What I’m most proud of is how our work transforms lives. Our patients don’t just regain physical strength or mobility—they reclaim confidence, joy, and the ability to fully engage in their daily lives. Whether it’s a mother playing with her kids pain-free or an individual completing their daily activities with renewed ease, these moments remind us why we do what we do.
For readers who may be struggling with pelvic health issues or simply want to learn more, I want them to know that help is available. You don’t have to navigate this alone. At Restorative Solutions, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several ways people can work with or support Restorative Solutions. For individuals seeking therapy, we offer personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to their needs, whether they’re managing pelvic floor dysfunction, recovering from an injury, or addressing neurological conditions. We provide flexible options, including in-person visits at our Palm Harbor location, virtual sessions, and even in-home therapy for added convenience.
For professionals interested in collaborating, I’m always open to building relationships with healthcare providers, fitness professionals, and organizations that align with our mission of improving quality of life through holistic, evidence-based care. Whether it’s cross-referrals, workshops, or joint initiatives to raise awareness about pelvic health, collaboration is a cornerstone of creating meaningful change.
As for supporting our mission, spreading the word about Restorative Solutions is incredibly valuable. Many people don’t realize there are effective treatments for the challenges they’re facing. Sharing our story, services, or educational content on social media can help us reach more individuals who need support.
Whether you’re a potential client, a fellow professional, or someone who believes in the importance of accessible healthcare, we’d love to connect and work together to make a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://restorativesolutionsfl.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restorativesolutions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RestorativeSolutionsFL
Image Credits
Brittany Garland- Divine Time Photography
