Leslie Castillo-Ortiz was recently selected to represent Palmer Florida and the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China.
“This opportunity to work with FICS and The World Games is a direct result of the education and mentorship I’ve received here at Palmer,” Leslie explains. “The connections I’ve made and the experiences I’ve gained have empowered me to reach for opportunities I never thought possible. Palmer’s emphasis on patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and the integration of cutting-edge techniques has prepared me to make a real difference in sports chiropractic.”
Her journey to this exciting chapter was built on years of dedication and hard work, supported by Palmer’s leading approach to chiropractic education. At Palmer, Leslie honed both her technical skills and her leadership abilities. As President of the Sports Council, she was able to guide her peers while learning from distinguished professionals in sports chiropractic. The club, along with mentorships like the one from the ACA Sports Council, provided Leslie with the knowledge and connections that allowed her to pursue a career in sports chiropractic with confidence.
The combination of personal experience and family influence led Leslie to sports chiropractic. “My passion for chiropractic care began when chiropractic care helped me recover after a significant injury. I was motivated to pursue a career where I could help people physically and empower them mentally to push through their challenges,” she says. “Chiropractic care became a crucial part of my recovery journey, and that’s when I knew I
wanted to help others in the same holistic way.”
Palmer College’s rigorous academic curriculum and practical experience were key to Leslie’s development. Courses like Cervicothoracic Technique, Extremity Technique, and Neuromuscular Diagnosis I & II have shaped her clinical skills and confidence in treating complex conditions. “These courses, along with hands-on experience in Palmer’s clinics, have provided me with a well-rounded education that blends the science and art of chiropractic care,” she shares.
Leslie feels Palmer’s support system—faculty, mentors, and a vibrant campus community—has equipped her with the tools she needs to excel as a Doctor of Chiropractic. “The professors are always willing to provide guidance, and the collaborative environment among students allows for continual growth. Palmer has fostered an atmosphere where I can learn, develop my skills, and connect with like-minded individuals,” Leslie says.
As she looks toward the future, Leslie remains driven by her passion for helping patients achieve optimal health. “In the long run, I want to work with athletes to enhance their performance and help them recover from injuries,” she explains. “I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned at Palmer to real-world scenarios, making an impact not only in the chiropractic field but also in the sports world.”
For students starting their chiropractic journey, Leslie offers some helpful advice, “Get involved early. Take advantage of every opportunity Palmer offers to get hands-on experience. The more you practice and immerse yourself in clubs and networking, the more you’ll gain from the experience.”
