ROC Acquires ActiveEDGE to Launch Integrated Orthopedic Care Model

PORTLAND, OR – April 01, 2026 – In a strategic move set to reshape orthopedic care in the Portland metropolitan area, ROC (Regenerative Orthopedic Center) has announced its acquisition of ActiveEDGE Physical Therapy & Wellness Center. The acquisition will integrate physical therapy directly into ROC's orthopedic services, creating a comprehensive, streamlined patient experience under the new brand, ROC Active – Orthopedic Rehabilitation.

This merger brings ActiveEDGE, a practice founded in 2014 and known for its patient-centered rehabilitation, under the umbrella of ROC, an independent group of board-certified orthopedic surgeons with three locations across Clackamas and Washington counties. The move signals a commitment to a more cohesive and outcome-focused approach to musculoskeletal health.

A New Standard for Integrated Orthopedic Care

The integration of physical therapy within an orthopedic practice represents a significant step toward a more holistic care model. By bringing rehabilitation services in-house, ROC aims to eliminate the fragmentation that patients often experience when coordinating care between separate surgical and therapy providers. This model is designed to enhance the continuity of care, from initial diagnosis and non-operative treatment through post-surgical recovery and long-term wellness.

"We're pleased to offer in-house physical therapy," said James Ballard, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon and one of ROC's founders. "Physical therapy plays a critical role both before and after surgery, helping patients improve outcomes and recover more efficiently. Having a dedicated team within ROC allows for better coordination and visibility into each patient's progress from the very beginning."

This "one-stop-shop" approach ensures that surgeons and physical therapists can collaborate closely, sharing insights and adjusting treatment plans in real-time. For patients, this translates to a more unified recovery journey where pre-surgical conditioning ("pre-hab") and post-operative rehabilitation are managed by a single, coordinated team. This close-knit communication is crucial for optimizing recovery timelines, managing pain effectively, and reducing the risk of complications or re-injury.

Reshaping Portland's Competitive Healthcare Market

ROC's acquisition of ActiveEDGE is not happening in a vacuum. It reflects a powerful national and local trend toward consolidation in the healthcare industry, particularly within specialized fields like orthopedics. Economic pressures, the pursuit of economies of scale, and a drive for greater market influence are compelling independent practices to join forces or align with larger health systems. By creating a larger, more integrated entity, providers can increase their bargaining power with insurance companies, invest in advanced technology, and streamline administrative costs.

In the competitive Portland market, this move positions ROC to stand out among a host of established providers. Competitors include large groups like The Oregon Clinic Orthopedic Specialists, which has served the area since 1973, and numerous independent physical therapy clinics such as Therapeutic Associates, which boasts over 25 locations in the metro area. By integrating the respected services of ActiveEDGE, ROC is not just expanding its service lines but also enhancing its value proposition for patients seeking comprehensive, hassle-free care.

The shift toward integrated practice models is also a response to the move toward value-based care, where reimbursement is tied to patient outcomes rather than the volume of services provided. A seamless system that manages a patient's entire orthopedic episode, from surgery to full rehabilitation, is better positioned to demonstrate positive outcomes and control costs, aligning perfectly with this evolving payment landscape.

What the Merger Means for Patient Recovery

For individuals navigating the challenges of an orthopedic injury or surgery, this merger promises tangible benefits. The new entity, ROC Active – Orthopedic Rehabilitation, is built on a shared philosophy of patient-centered care.

"Joining ROC allows ActiveEDGE to better reach patients at key moments in their care journey," said Dan Morlan, owner of ActiveEDGE. "Our shared goal is to provide a truly comprehensive experience, supporting patients from their first consultation through recovery and a confident return to daily activity."

ActiveEDGE has built a strong reputation since 2014 for its personalized approach, offering one-on-one, 45-minute sessions with licensed physical therapists. The practice is known for its holistic philosophy, addressing not just the immediate injury but also the contributing factors related to a patient's functional capacity and overall well-being. Its team, including co-founders Dan and Melissa Morlan, brings specialized expertise in sports-specific rehabilitation, functional training, and complex hip and low back injuries.

This deep well of expertise will now be directly accessible to ROC's patients. The integration will leverage ActiveEDGE's three existing locations in West Linn, Oregon City, and Tualatin, providing a network of rehabilitation centers staffed by therapists who are experts in post-surgical protocols and evidence-based treatment. Patient testimonials for ActiveEDGE frequently praise its knowledgeable staff and effective, personalized programs that have helped them regain strength, mobility, and confidence. This proven track record in rehabilitation is now a core component of the ROC care continuum.

The Strategic Vision Behind ROC Active

The creation of ROC Active is more than a simple business transaction; it represents a strategic vision for the future of orthopedic medicine in the region. By combining surgical excellence with top-tier rehabilitative care, ROC is building a durable model that prioritizes clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. The unified branding reflects a commitment to a seamless experience, from simplified appointment scheduling to cohesive communication between every member of a patient's care team.

This strategic alignment is designed to create a virtuous cycle: better-coordinated care leads to improved patient outcomes, which in turn strengthens the practice's reputation and attracts more patients seeking high-quality, efficient treatment. It also makes the organization a more attractive place for top clinical talent to work, fostering an environment of collaboration and specialization.

While the acquisition has been announced, the full integration is set to roll out in the near future. ROC has stated that further details regarding the official launch date of services under the ROC Active brand and specific location information will be announced. For now, patients of both ROC and ActiveEDGE can anticipate a future where the path from injury to recovery is managed by one dedicated and unified team.