Dr. Cassabaum graduated in 1989 from Washington University in St. Louis, after having completed the Physical Therapy Program, where he received his BS and MS in Physical Therapy.

Steve practiced in St. Louis from 1989 to 1995 where he worked at the TMJ Research Center & the Orofacial Pain Center/Oral-Facial Surgery Center seeing almost exclusively TMJ patients.

He was also on faculty at Washington University presenting the TMJ lecture for the students in the
Physical Therapy program from 1989-1997; In 1995 Steve became the president and co-founder of 21st Century Rehab, PC, which is based out of Nevada, Iowa, and currently has clinics in 14 central Iowa communities. Steve received his post-professional Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2009 from Washington University in St. Louis.

Dr. Cassabaum currently sees a varied caseload of orthopaedic patients, about which 80% of are patients with headache, cervical spine, and TMJ dysfunction. Steve also enjoys mentoring and creating a strong culture at 21st Century Rehab.

Steve has been a member of the American Physical Therapy Association for 39 years and is also a member of the Private Practice Section. He is the current legislative chair and a past president of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association. Steve also serves as a member of the Iowa Licensure Board for Physical and Occupational Therapy. Both in his work and personal life, Steve finds every moment spent with his wife, daughters, grandkids, family and friends to be the most precious.

Why Dr. Cassabaum was Nominated: 

Recognizing the growing challenge of rising tuition costs for DPT programs, Steve initiated critical conversations with academic institutions across Iowa, urging greater transparency and accountability. His advocacy has already influenced universities to move toward sustainable tuition models, ensuring that passionate and qualified students can pursue physical therapy without the burden of overwhelming debt. This effort reflects his commitment not just to economic fairness, but to preserving the future of physical therapy as a first-line option in healthcare.

Steve’s leadership also extends to the policy arena, where he has worked tirelessly to expand the scope and autonomy of physical therapists in Iowa. His advocacy was instrumental in securing legislation granting PTs unrestricted direct access, the ability to dry needle, authority to assess for disability placards and crossbows, and the right to order imaging. These victories empower PTs to work at the top of their license and improve access to care for patients across the state.

Beyond policy and advocacy, Steve invests deeply in the next generation of physical therapists. Whether he is traveling hours to mentor students in “Shark Tank” business plan competitions, presenting on legislative issues, or personally welcoming students at APTA-IA events, Steve consistently makes time to nurture and inspire future leaders of the profession.

Through his vision, selflessness, and tireless advocacy, Dr. Cassabaum exemplifies what it means to make a lasting community impact. His work not only strengthens physical therapy in Iowa today but also ensures a brighter, more sustainable future for the profession nationwide.