Meet the Stemulis Team

Patient-Centered Care from a World-Class Team

Stemulis is a team of seasoned professionals united by a commitment to exceptional, personalized care. Our experts bring a wealth of experience and a patient-first approach to every treatment and interaction.

Above all, we are an assembly of physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and nurses, among others, who care deeply about our patients’ health and well-being. Our mission is clear: to ensure each patient receives high-quality care and support for their unique needs.

Meet the team behind Stemulis' commitment to offering every patient a successful treatment alternative.

Find Out How We Put Patients First →
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Travis Neff, PT, ATC, CSCS

Founder of Stemulis Orthobiologics

Travis Neff is a distinguished innovator and practitioner in the field of sports medicine, bringing a wealth of experience as a licensed physical therapist, athletic trainer, and certified strength and conditioning specialist. His career spans roles with Mizzou Sports Medicine, the Kansas City Chiefs, and Sporting Kansas City among others.

Travis founded Kansas City’s largest integrated sports performance and physical therapy practice. He skillfully integrates clinical excellence with innovative business strategies. As Stemulis’ founder, his dedication to pioneering advanced healthcare solutions reflects his commitment to transforming the future of care for musculoskeletal injuries.

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Joe Whetstone, MBA, MS, LAT, ATC

Partner

Joe Whetstone is a dedicated professional in the fields of sports medicine and healthcare management, currently serving as the Chief Integration Officer at Sano, a premier multi-specialty medical practice in Kansas City. He is the founding member of the Kansas City Athletic Trainers' Society (KCATS) and has served on various national and regional boards.

Whetstone is a proud member of the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Passionate about injury prevention and collaborative healthcare, he integrates evidence-based practices into both leadership and operational strategies. He currently serves on the Local Leadership Board of the Arthritis Foundation and is a trusted partner of Stemulis Orthobiologics.

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Dr. Preston Howerton, MD

Staff Physician

Dr. Preston Howerton is a highly accomplished physician with a diverse career in military service, emergency medicine, and healthcare leadership. He served as a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force, followed by nearly two decades in emergency medicine.

Currently, Dr. Howerton is the Chief Medical Officer for the HCC Network where he oversees medical leadership, operations, and patient care standards across diverse healthcare specialties. He also contributes to the University of Missouri’s Telehealth Network by mentoring healthcare providers in specialized practices.

Now as part of Stemulis, Dr. Howerton continues to champion his commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes.

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Steve Taylor, ATC

Clinical Operations Director

Steve Taylor is a seasoned athletic trainer with 29 years of experience. After earning his degree from Emporia State University and his Master’s from The University of Tulsa, Steve began his career at Lee’s Summit North High School. Here, he served as a teacher and athletic trainer working with athletes at major high school state events, including wrestling, football, and track championships until 2024.

Steve is an awardee in the 2022 Missouri Sports Medicine Hall of Fame and has served on the National Athletic Trainers Association Secondary Schools Committee. As a senior softball player and a part of the Stemulis team, Steve is passionate about helping individuals of all ages stay active.

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Zac Craig, MAEd, ATC, CSCS, RN, BSN

Clinical Team Leader

Zac Craig brings a unique blend of sports and medical expertise to Stemulis. With degrees in Athletic Training and Education, Zac started his career as a strength coach and athletic trainer for top teams like the Minnesota Vikings and the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers.

After battling cancer three times, Zac was inspired to pursue nursing. Now, as both an ER and Vascular Access Nurse, Zac showcases his dedication to patient care.

Zac's journey from sports to healthcare highlights his resilience and passion for helping others.

Patient Success Stories

“Words are inadequate to express how much I appreciate what you have done to help me with my shoulder. You are AWESOME! Thank you.”
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Becky T. Satisfied Patient
“You have helped me very much with my knee arthritis. My pain is nearly gone, and I am back to pickleball. I thank you for your kindness!”
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Barbara U. Satisfied Patient
“Thank you for performing the bone marrow stem cell procedure on both my knees. I am so amazed by the improvement in them – every day is better than the one before...”
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Brenda T. Satisfied Patient
“Once again, you are remarkable. It was obvious I was anxious, and you were calm and caring and did not minimize my concerns. My elbow is almost back to perfect, and my golf game has stepped up tremendously. THANK YOU!”
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Justin B. Satisfied Patient
“Thank you for your kindness and compassion while treating my knees. Your gentleness overwhelmed me. I can now run FASTER than my husband!“
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Mary F. Satisfied Patient
“Nine months after the PRP procedure for a rotator cuff tear, I am pain-free and have the full range of motion in my shoulder. No downtime/no sling and I was able to return to the gym two days after the injections. Would I do PRP again? ABSOLUTELY! Why would I not use my body’s own cells to heal an injury? No reason!”
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Denise P. Satisfied Patient
“My greatest thanks for all you have done for me. I am a journeyman electrician who does a lot of overhead work, pole climbing, and pulling of cable—so I use my shoulder all day. After 2 years of left shoulder pain, I underwent an arthroscopic surgery which gave me no relief. After PRP 3 months ago, I am almost pain-free and am finally getting my life back! Thanks.”
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Jerry B. Satisfied Patient
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Together, we’ll start your journey to relief and recovery

Schedule a Consultation Today