professional physical therapy blog.

Written by: Professional Physical Therapy With the spike in COVID cases and consequential staffing shortages, many inpatient and outpatient surgeries are being postponed or delayed. Despite these delays, there is no need to sit back and suffer while waiting. Physical therapy can be a proactive way to reduce pain while increasing mobility and function until surgeries … Continued

Written by Allison McNamara, PT, DPT If you are like so many other people right now, you have contracted the Omicron variant of Covid in the past month or two and are (hopefully) on the road to recovery. You are probably itching to get back into your fitness routine (or as it is January, ready … Continued

Written by Allison Stringer, MS, PT, FAAOMPT, CHA Back pain can sneak up on you when you least expect it. One minute you’re sitting comfortably in front of the TV, and the next you try to stand up, and ouch! – a sharp pain radiates through your lower back. Could you have a herniated disc? … Continued

Written by: Allison Stringer, MS, PT, FAAOMPT, CHA, and Clinical Director at Andover and Dracut, MA New Year resolutions actually go back to ancient times, over 4,000 years ago! While resolutions are still a tradition, the type of resolutions have changed over the years. Most people now focus on self-improvement — weight loss, improvement in … Continued

By: Dr. Sasha Cyrelson, Clinical Director, PT, DPT, OCS, MCMT As you get older, physical changes, health conditions or even the medications that you take can increase your risk of falling. And did you know that more women than men will experience a slip-and-fall accident. What is a fall? A fall is defined as any … Continued

Written by: Allison McNamara, PT, DPT It’s hard enough to exercise during the year but add holidays into the mix and many of us find exercise becomes a low priority. It is easy to skip exercising during the holiday season – with busy schedules, needing to fit in shopping, family obligations and holiday parties. However, regular … Continued

Written by Professional Physical Therapy Professional Physical Therapy is proud to announce its certification as a 2021-2022 Great Place to Work®. Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue and increased innovation. It uses validated employee feedback gathered with Great Place … Continued

Written by Karen Baxter Furno, PT, DPT It’s time to talk openly and honestly about a topic that makes some of us feel uncomfortable –and that’s your bowel movements. Our bowel health has a big impact on our physical selves and it’s important to know the facts. Emptying your bowels easily is an important part … Continued

Written by: Angelo Marsella MA, ATC, USAW | Partner | Director of Sports Medicine Despite increased media focus and education in recent years, sports concussion myths are still very common. Professional Physical Therapy takes a look as some of these myths and sets the record straight.  Causes of a Concussion  Myth: A concussion only occurs as a result … Continued

Written By Anthony Lombardo, PT, DPT, USA-W, USA-PL, CPT, Pn.1 October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and it’s important to know that those recovering from cancer need to tackle recovery with the same strength as they battled cancer. After surgery, exercise and physical therapy can make a big difference. After breast cancer surgery, a patient … Continued

Written By Deana Swanson, OT/L, CHT There is a lot to celebrate this season and it’s important to avoid hand injuries that will dampen the fun. With Halloween around the corner and Thanksgiving next month, using a knife or cutting utensil safely will make all the difference in preventing a hand injury. According to the … Continued

Written by Allison Stringer MS, PT, FAAOMPT, CHA, and Clinical Director at Salem, MA Every October we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month. This annual occurrence is our opportunity to raise awareness about the range of skills our Physical Therapists have and the important role they play in safe and effective pain management, recovery and rehabilitation. … Continued

Written by Professional Physical Therapy Professional was a proud sponsor and thrilled to support all the participants at the 16th annual Scores Cup corporate charity soccer tournament, along with other dedicated volunteers, corporate sponsors, and individual contributors. The soccer tournament returned to Gillette Stadium on Saturday, August 14th, supporting Boston Scores afterschool programming. And Professional … Continued

Written By: Allison McNamara, PT, DPT Does this sound familiar – you reach up and across your body to put on a seat belt, lift a jug of juice from the fridge, or reach into the back seat of the car and experience a pain in the front of your shoulder? Do you notice an … Continued

Written by Professional Physical Therapy contributors Robert Shapiro PT, DPT, COMT and Partner/Director of Clinical Excellence and Steve Vitale PT, DPT, FAAOMPT, OMT. Ergonomics is the process of fitting a workplace (at home or office) to the needs of the worker, rather than the other way around. The goal of ergonomics is to increase efficiency … Continued

Written by Professional Physical Therapy Professional was a proud sponsor and thrilled to support all the riders at the annual, 2021 Long Island Bike Challenge (LIBC), along other dedicated volunteers, corporate sponsors, and individual contributors. What a great day (and the weather cooperated)! On Sunday, August 1st, bicycle riders from the NY metro area and … Continued

Written by Angelo Marsella MA, ATC, USAW | Partner I Director of Sports Medicine Tennis is a worldwide sport and a favorite summertime activity that requires not only hand-eye coordination but complete body participation to run, position your body, swing, and hit the tennis ball. Unfortunately, tennis injuries can be a result of the high demands … Continued

By Antonio Lombardo, PT, DPT, USA-W, USA-PL, CPT, Pn.1 Smartphones have become a lifestyle must have for most of us, from senior citizens to young children. These devices help us with learning, playing games, sharing things we like, liking stuff other people share, sending emails, watching videos, and staying in touch with loved ones through … Continued

Written by Allison McNamara, PT, DPT Your child is probably very excited to get back to in-person school this year. But, back to school in 2021 poses new challenges that families did not face previously. Many children participated in remote learning for at least part of the 2020-2021 school year and maybe even the 2019-2020 … Continued

Written by Kristin Westover, PT, MPT, CIMT Pelvic pain often refers to pain in the area of a woman’s reproductive organs, but pelvic pain can be present in both males and females and can stem from other causes.  Pelvic pain can arise from your digestive, reproductive, or urinary system.  Pain can also arise from muscles … Continued

Written by Jay Correia, PT, DPT, ATC, and Clinical Director at Ridgefield, CT. Several months ago, Professional Physical Therapy (Pro PT) patient, Dan, was experiencing severe neck pain that started to radiate down his arm. He, as many people are these days, is sitting at his computer at home for in excess of 12 hours … Continued

Written by Antonio Lombardo, PT, DPT, USA-W, USA-PL, CPT, and Pn.1 For people dealing with a physical, emotional, or mental health issues therapy in the form of recreation can be very powerful. Recreational therapy can help rebuild skills, improve mood, boost quality of life and strengthen social connections. Working with the right therapist, specializing in … Continued

Playing golf is a great way to enjoy low-impact exercise. It’s a competitive, social sport that involves frequent walking around a course. However, the repetitive motion of swinging your club can cause pain and injury. This commonly affects the arms and back, but it can involve any part of the body because golf swings are … Continued

  The hallmark of arthritis is joint inflammation. This can be caused by degeneration of the joint or an autoimmune disorder. Both forms of arthritis may cause problems within the affected joint including swelling, stiffness, trouble moving, decreased strength, pain, and deformities (AOTA, 2012). There are four stages of arthritis: minor, mild, moderate, and severe. … Continued

Written by Professional’s Kristin Westover PT, MPT, CIMT Common gardening tasks, such as digging, planting, weeding, mulching and raking can cause stress and strain on muscles and joints, especially for seniors or those who are normally sedentary. The shoulders, back, neck and knees are prime targets. Following these tips can help you minimize the risk … Continued

  What is Occupational Therapy? Occupational Therapists work to assist people who experience challenges to their everyday health to participate in or return to daily life to their fullest ability. These types of injuries can be overwhelming and cause a significant disruption to your life. OT’s work closely with patients to help establish goals and … Continued

  Written by: Nick Licameli PT, DPT, Clinical Director of Professional PT’s Nutley, NJ Clinic It is important to remember that pain is multi-factorial, poorly defined in the scientific literature, extremely variable from activity to activity, and rarely due to a single traumatic event. We can actually have pain with or without tissue damage! Therefore, … Continued

Written by Professional’s Antonio Lombardo PT, DPT, USA-W, USA-PL, CPT, Pn-1   Whether we took a tumble snowboarding in the Appalachian Mountains, bent down the wrong way, or lifted something a little too heavy, low back pain can be a serious bother. If you’re struggling, know that most people experience back pain at some point … Continued

  It’s March and that means it’s time for National Athletic Training Month! We like to take this time each year to recognize the hard work of our Athletic Trainers and the vital role they play in the wellbeing of student athletes both on and off of the field. Professional’s Sports Medicine Department is proud … Continued

Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy Originally posted on Simplifaster   Throughout my career, I’ve received numerous phone calls and had many discussions with strength and conditioning professionals and sport coaches who have inquired how to initiate training their post-rehabilitated shoulder athlete and the exercise modifications, if … Continued

Written by Anthony Walsh PT, DPT It’s that time of year again! The temperature is starting to rise and the sun is staying out for longer each day. It’s time to grab those sneakers and head outside for your workout to take advantage of the natural terrain and fresh air for great mental relief. Taking … Continued

  Written by Antonio Lombardo, Physical Therapist, PT, DPT, USA-W, USA-PL, CPT, Pn-1   I love lifting heavy. I live for workouts, especially when I realize that I’m ready to go up in weight! It makes me feel so strong and accomplished. But over the last few years working as a fitness enthusiast, I’ve learned that … Continued

  Are you recovering from COVID-19 and still feeling the effects? A startling number of those recovering from COVID-19 (whether hospitalized or not) report continued fatigue, weakness, limited endurance, and mobility challenges for many months afterward. The toll on muscle strength, balance, endurance, and heart and lung capacity, can last for months, potentially years after … Continued

  Allison Stringer, MS, PT, FAAOMPT, CHA During exercise, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and ignore any pains or discomfort you may be feeling. Although exercise is an important part of staying fit and healthy, preventing injury is just as important. Before you get back into it, try to avoid these … Continued

  Have you worked with a mentor before? Partnering up with a mentor can help you along your career path through gaining knowledge that students do not typically get to experience in a classroom. These individuals are typically someone in your current or future field, who is supporting your ability to grow and develop. In … Continued

  With winter fully upon us, we typically spend less time outdoors. This decrease in outdoor activities doesn’t mean there’s any less of a risk for injury when stepping outside. Especially after a fresh snow or rain, there’s reason to be extra careful and know what to do in order to avoid injury. Professional Physical … Continued

  Returning to exercise after experiencing COVID-19 can be challenging. For those recovering from the Coronavirus, it is important to advance physical activity gradually and understand when it is appropriate to progress. Below, Professional’s Anthony Walsh, PT, DPT, will discuss when is a good time to start resuming exercise, a convenient method to help establish … Continued

  As Coronavirus cases are on the rise again, many of us may find we’re spending more time at home than we’re used to. With this extra time inside, it’s important to remember that there are many benefits that come with staying active and mobile throughout your day. Prolonged sitting can contribute to tight muscles, … Continued

  If an exercise or activity gives you any pain or discomfort, it may not be wise to ignore it. Running is no different: very rarely is there an exercise that cannot be modified to feel better while helping a person progress towards the same goals. “Runner’s knee” is one of those injuries that you … Continued

  As the warm weather fades out, you may be finding it more and more difficult to make it outside for your favorite outdoor activities, whether that be a walk, run, gardening, sports, or anything else you like to participate in. Cold temperatures and shorter days may make you want to stay in bed, but … Continued

  Robert Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy New York, New York   The rehabilitation of the injured or post-operative ACL reconstructed (ACLr) knee athlete presents with many challenges. Two of these challenges include re-establishing the muscle activity and strength of the quadriceps muscle group in the manifestation … Continued

  It’s that time again! In the northeast, we have the luxury of enjoying crisp temperatures that call for cozy sweaters, hot drinks, and crackling fireplaces. As beautiful as the foliage looks on the trees, any homeowner knows the unwanted chore of raking leaves is right around the corner. Many associate this task with the … Continued

  Each October, we come together to raise awareness and show our support for people effected by breast cancer. This year is especially important to bring light to this topic, as the Coronavirus has put a pause on the care, fundraising, campaigning, and research of this deadly disease. According to Weill Cornell Medicine, breast cancer … Continued

  Water is the most important resource for the body. When we don’t stay on top of our water intake, our bodies start to pay the price. These effects include fatigue, dizziness, headaches, etc. According to Mayo Clinic, “Dehydration occurs when you use or lose more fluid than you take in, and your body doesn’t … Continued

Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy Professional Athletic Performance Center New York, New York   Kinesiophobia. It’s a very familiar term to the sports medicine and sports rehabilitation health care professional. With specific regard to the post-operative anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) knee athlete, kinesiophobia is … Continued

  If you spend a lot of time looking down at your phone or computer, you may notice an increase of pain in your neck and shoulders. As the popularity of phones and tablets continues to rise, there has also been an increase in this kind of pain due to constant strain on these muscles. … Continued

When you face a significant injury, it’s hard not to think your life will never be the same. It’s important that you seek the help and medical attention you need right away, to avoid the risks that are involved with prolonging your treatment. Our patients at Professional Physical Therapy have seen great results from working … Continued

Robert Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy New York, New York   Participation in competitive athletics can be very rewarding, but a conceivable consequence of sports participation are the high stresses that are placed upon the athlete’s body. Sprinting results in ground reaction forces that are approximately five … Continued

  Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Professional Physical Therapy Professional Athletic Performance Center New York, New York   A concern that often transpires with patients that present with rotator cuff pathology and/or post-operative surgery, is the reactivation of the rotator cuff muscle group to restore the deltoid-rotator cuff force couple (figure 1) for … Continued

  While gyms have now started to reopen, you may find that you’re not rushing to get back to working out in a public space. Until you’re ready to do so, don’t let all the hard work you put into your physical health fall by the wayside while you’re socially distancing yourself. It’s a great … Continued

    Many organizations claim to promote staff continuing education and learning. At Professional Physical Therapy, we do not just claim it; we have made it part of our culture. We have a dedicated staff of educators whose primary purpose and mission are to develop clinicians who we would be proud to send a family … Continued

Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy New York, New York   During the rehabilitation of the post-operative anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee pathology patient, common interventions utilized in the field of Sports Physical Therapy include, but are not limited to, the use of modalities for pain, … Continued

Written by: Nicholas Licameli PT, DPT   Thinking of starting back up that running routine? Warm weather can be exciting; everyone wants to be outside and spend their day doing outdoors activities. When doing so, it’s important to take note of where you once left off and working your way back to that level of … Continued

Written by Molly Frankinburger PT, DPT, OCS, CSOMPT, CSCS   Running can provide many benefits, aside from a good mile time. It is a great mode of exercise to stay fit and healthy, especially during a pandemic when access to gym equipment is limited. All you need is a quality pair of sneakers to enjoy … Continued

Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS Founding Partner, Chief Clinical Officer Professional Physical Therapy Originally posted on Simplifaster   In a recent conversation with a group of physical therapists, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning coach’s, the subject matter progressed to an MVP NFL Quarterback who had laterally dislocated their patella during a game … Continued

Our team at Professional is excited to announce that a number of our physical therapists are now OCS certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties! After undergoing 2,000 hours of direct orthopedic patient care as a licensed physical therapist, these individuals have worked rigorously to prepare for the board exam, and earn this … Continued

It’s easy to fall into bad habits when your daily routine is turned upside down. While we all are spending more time than ever at home, it’s important to keep your body moving for both your physical and mental health. There’s quick and easy things you can do throughout your day to keep your blood … Continued

  It’s here! Professional Physical Therapy is excited to announce our new partnership with Hyperice. Cut down on your rehabilitation time with these cutting-edge technology devices that use vibration, percussive, and thermal rehabilitation to work hand-in-hand with physical therapy to help you meet your goals in a shorter period of time. The combination of these … Continued

This week, we saw millions of people pour into action and solidarity over unnecessary violence and the death of George Floyd. It is impossible and irresponsible not to acknowledge the unrest and anguish our communities have experienced. We recognize that the current climate affects you, your families, and us as an organization as we all … Continued

When Barbara began her stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, she expected to isolate safely and peacefully with her family and two dogs. She did not expect to experience a major injury. “I suffered a knee injury. I have two big Bernese Mountain dogs who were wrestling and totally chop-blocked me when I wasn’t paying … Continued

Throughout this crisis, we know that our ‘new normal’ continues to change every day. Like you, we will continue to adhere to our government and local guidelines for how to navigate our daily objectives. We understand you may have had organized sports, exercise routines, and even surgery postponed or cancelled as a result of COVID-19. … Continued

Professional Physical Therapy Establishes New Foundation To Support Employees During COVID-19 Pandemic NEW YORK (PRWEB) APRIL 15, 2020 Professional Physical Therapy (“Professional”), a leading provider of physical and hand therapy and rehabilitation services in the Northeastern United States, today announced the establishment of the Professional Physical Therapy Charitable Foundation, which will provide financial relief and support … Continued

At Professional Physical Therapy, the health and safety of our patients is always our top priority. As such, we are diligently monitoring updates to the Coronavirus or COVID-19. We understand this is a challenging time for us, but want to reassure you that we are committed to using preventive measures such as disinfecting our equipment … Continued

At Professional, we are committed to helping you understand the lasting benefit of early physical therapy. This article illustrates the growing trend of encouraging physical therapy for a multitude of reasons. When your long-term healthcare plan includes physical therapy as an early solution to treating pain, it can help to reduce the need for invasive … Continued

It is no secret flip-flops are a popular footwear choice during the warm summer months. Both convenient and fashionable, flip-flops may be ideal for the beach or pool as they offer your feet a chance to breathe during the hot summer days. However, flip-flops may not be safe if you wear them during vigorous activities … Continued

With October recognized as National Physical Therapy month, I wanted to share some information on the U.S. opioid epidemic, and how you and your loved ones can avoid being part of this national crisis. In March 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued opioid prescription guidelines, recognizing that prescription opioids are appropriate … Continued

Professional Physical Therapy’s Certified Hand Therapist, Kara Ghedina, OT, CHT weighs in on the CBS Boston article “Did LeBron James Really Play With Broken Hand? A Photographic Investigation” Ghedina confirms that a hand injury, specifically one to a dominant hand, could greatly impact someone’s performance in any sport, but even more so in basketball.  Every time a player passes, … Continued

Guest written by Dave Del Vecchio PT, DPT, CSCS, NJ Area Manager at Professional Physical Therapy as commentary to an article on PTProductsOnline.com titled “Orthopaedic Surgeon Offers Tips to Combat Winter Sports Injuries” released on January 18, 2018. There are some easy and effective exercises that help prevent injury, for people who go from sitting at a desk … Continued

A recent article in The New York Times discussed the importance of fall prevention, particularly in the elderly population.  Injuries from falls increase during the colder months, in large part from ice, snow, sleet, and hidden leaves on walkways and roadways. As the article states, falls remain the number one cause of injuries to seniors, … Continued

Guest written by Dan Sieczkiewicz of our Financial District clinic as commentary to the NBA.com article “Boston Celtics’ Gordon Hayward suffers fractured ankle in season opener”. October 18, 2017. On Tuesday night, the Boston Celtics opened their 2017-2018 season on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was the Celtics fans’ first opportunity to see Gordon Hayward, a … Continued

Guest written by Dr. Howard J. Levy, MD, MBA Orthopedic Surgeon, Sports Medicine as commentary to The New York Times article titled “Cost of Contact in Sports Is Estimated at Over 600,000 Injuries a Year” released on September 29, 2017. A recent article in The New York Times reported that contact sports are responsible for over 600,000 injuries per … Continued

Property Brothers star, Drew Scott, suffered a hamstring injury while rehearsing with his partner Emma Slater, for his Dancing With the Stars performance. While we often hear about hamstring pulls in athletes, it is a quite common injury for dancers as well, and we wanted to provide insight from that perspective.  Naturally, we turned to … Continued

Edward Marx, Duathlon World Champion and member of Team USA, honored our Wall Street clinic by presenting our staff with a signed Team USA jersey! This was in appreciation for the excellent care and encouragement he received during his physical therapy rehab from a torn meniscus.  Feeling pain in his left knee while training for … Continued

Arlington, MA patient Lauren Widrick is an 11-year-old figure skater.  She has been figure skating since she was three and this past spring developed tendinitis in her right foot while working on landing her double salchow.  Lauren’s former coach recommended she see Allison Stringer for Physical Therapy, as Allison has personal experience with the sport … Continued

Guest written by Jeff Yellin, DPT, CSCS, USA-W, ART and Carrie Haubrich-Burke, ATC as commentary to a recent ESPN article titled, “Nationals expect Bryce Harper back for playoff push.” The article highlights the possibility that a career-altering knee injury for the Nationals outfielder seemed realistic. The term ‘bone bruise’ is actually a misnomer and can … Continued

What did you have for breakfast today? Did you know that how you choose to first fuel your body will influence your daily energy, moods, clarity, emotions and even how you sleep? Starting your day with nutrient-rich foods including healthy fats, proteins, and colorful produce provides an excellent foundation to continue to make healthy choices … Continued

  Concussions can happen to anyone…just ask Rebel Wilson. Rebel suffered a concussion, due to a fall while on set filming her new comedy “Isn’t it Romantic?”  A concussion is a type of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that … Continued

The recent New York Post article titled “The epidemic that’s ruining youth sports” inspired Jon Rogers, PT, DPT to provide insight on overuse injuries from a Physical Therapist’s perspective. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing.  At all ages, we’re constantly using our bodies, and everything we do puts some … Continued

Did you know that Mindfulness and Gratitude are skills that can be practiced to help support your recovery? How can Gratitude help? The practice of gratitude focuses on what you do have, instead of what you don’t, shifting energy and priorities to more of a feeling of well-being and abundance. Start a gratitude journal. Before … Continued

Guest written by Owen Lennon, PT, as commentary to an article, July 25, 2017, in The New York Times titled: 110 N.F.L. Brains. The article discusses a study about N.F.L. players and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (C.T.E.), the disease believed to be caused by repeated blows to the head. C.T.E. causes a variety of symptoms, including … Continued

Guest written by Dr. Howard J. Levy, MD, MBA Orthopedic Surgeon, Sports Medicine as commentary to The New York Times article titled “What I Wish I’d Known About My Knees” released on July 3, 2017 An article in The New York Times, “What I Wish I’d Known About My Knees”, reviews the treatment options for … Continued

Guest written by Frank Hoeffner of our Roslyn clinic as commentary to The New York Times article “Bring on the Exercise, Hold the Painkillers,” July 6, 2017. The New York Times article emphasizes that widespread use of Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may not have the effect that people hope. A recent study showed that ibuprofen and … Continued

As Independence Day is coming upon us, Professional Hand Therapy encourages all of our patients, employees, friends and family to be safe while attending fireworks shows this summer. According to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), accidents involving firecrackers, bottle rockets, and sparklers total approximately 57% of all firework injuries, and of … Continued

New York Yankee, CC Sabathia suffered a hamstring injury during the June 13th game. Hamstring injuries are both common and painful, and occur to one or more of the muscles at the back of the thigh. Asymmetry in strength, flexibility and range of motion at the hips, pelvis, and spine can lead to increased tension on … Continued

Professional Physical Therapy asked our own Certified Back Specialist, Tony D’Angelo, Partner, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations, MS, PT, ATC, CSCS to comment on a recent article about Physical Therapy for low back pain as a first intervention. “There is a substantial amount of medical literature supporting specific “Active” physical therapy exercises for the … Continued

Country artist Chris Stapleton had to cancel several tour dates due to a broken bone and a detached tendon in his hand. We went to our expert, Certified Hand Therapist and Occupational Therapist, Sheena Pasricha at our Montclair, NJ location to provide some insight about Chris’ injury and what recovery might look like. Dear Everybody, … Continued

Aches and pains happen to everyone, and occur during sport, at home or at work. Whether it’s a pain in your shoulder when you reach to grab something falling off a shelf, tightness in your back when your bat makes contact with the ball, or a quick twist of your ankle during a run, our … Continued

Spring is underway and so is the urge to get out of the house, shake the dust off our bones and engage in fun activities like baseball, golf and tennis. These days, elbow injuries are commonplace for both athletes and the ‘weekend warrior.’ So how do we prevent being benched from the sports we love … Continued

April is Occupational Therapy Month! What is Occupational Therapy and what are its benefits? Occupational Therapist Mollie Sherman of our Englewood and Hoboken clinics describes Occupational Therapy (OT) as “a form of therapy that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.” Occupational Therapists have the unique task of striving to improve … Continued

The new school year is upon us and in full swing!  As our children are settling in to their classrooms – the hustle and bustle of homework, school sports, and extracurricular activities also begins.  The last thing parents and their children need to worry about are injuries, soreness, and back pain that can result from … Continued

  Did you know that every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the Emergency Room for a fall-related injury? Fall Prevention Awareness Week is quickly approaching in September, and to celebrate, Professional Physical Therapy is supplying you with tips on how to protect yourself from becoming one of these ER casualties! Each year, … Continued

If you’ve been watching the 2016 Olympic Games, it’s likely you’ve seen some of your favorite athletes utilizing Myofascial Decompression (MFD), more commonly known as “Cupping” or “Cupping Therapy”. If you’ve seen red circular marks on the Olympians’ bodies, then you’ve seen the use of Cupping. Although this seems like a brand new trend, Cupping … Continued

  There is no denying that exercise provides many health benefits to people of all ages.  In a recent article from The New York Times, exercise was referred to as a “wonder drug”, and reviewed how physical activity can positively affect many different medical conditions.  The article examined studies, as well as evidence-based data, to … Continued

Happy Spring!  The temperature is rising, the snow is gone, and the number of layers of clothing is shrinking.  Bathing suit season is just around the corner.  If you’ve been keeping your couch warm all winter, it’s time to move off your seat and get back on your feet! These 5 tips will help ease … Continued

As a fan or party-goer, Super Bowl Sunday may sound like a relaxing day spent on the couch or indulging in snacks. After all, you’re not the one on the field fighting for the Championship. In the action or not, injuries can happen in the most unexpected of times. Stick to these game day prevention tips and stay … Continued

Has your doctor told you that you need surgery? Chances are you will need Physical Therapy after your operation, but what about pre-operation? Anthony D’Angelo, Professional Physical Therapy’s Partner and Vice President of Clinical Operations in New York City (NYC), has seen many benefits of Prehabilitation. Prehabilitation — or Prehab — in a clinical setting is … Continued

As a Buffalo, NY native, James Collins knows a thing or two about snow. Get some relief from the soreness & aches caused by snow shoveling with the tips below: Keep Moving: Contrary to what many may think, performing light exercise may help relieve the pain one experiences from delayed onset muscle soreness(DOMS). Simply going for … Continued

Guest written by Dr. Howard J. Levy, MD, MBA Orthopedic Surgeon, Sports Medicine as commentary to the Wall Street Journal’s “The Best Way for Teens to Recover From Overuse Injuries” released on January 18, 2016 Certified Athletic Trainers (ATC) are an integral part of any comprehensive sports medicine program. An article in the Wall Street Journal … Continued

We’ve all heard the saying “use it or lose it.” It applies to your brain, your muscles, and possibly your health insurance and/or Flexible Spending Account benefits! Gift shopping, entertaining family and friends, and other holiday activities often cause us to temporarily put our healthcare on the back burner and add it to next year’s … Continued

The US Open Tennis Championship is underway, and all eyes are on Serena Williams as she tries to become the first player in 27 years to win a tennis Grand Slam! While tennis is an exhilarating game for players and fans alike, many do not realize the extent of injuries that can be caused by … Continued

At Professional Physical Therapy, we are proud to employ some of the most charitable people dedicated to improving our communities. We want to applaud those individuals who go above and beyond both in their careers and in the communities in which we serve. Victoria Gagliardi , Athletic Trainer, White Plains What is your favorite Charity … Continued

Late night talk show host Jimmy Fallon had a little scare recently where he slipped in his kitchen and caught his ring on the countertop. Fallon explained he suffered from “ring avulsion,” a serious injury caused by the sudden pull on a finger that often results in amputation. Fortunately, doctors were able to save Fallon’s … Continued

Did you know that by going on vacation you can lower your blood pressure, heart rate, and reduce stress? While summer is a popular time to take a vacation and relax, it is also a popular way to get injured. The last thing you want is your vacation ruined by an injury. Jane Berman, Physical Therapist at … Continued

Your Big Day has finally arrived, and you’ve both said “I do.” Now, the real fun begins. You enter the reception hall as the new Mr. and Mrs., but do you know how to avoid the potential injuries that await you and your guests?  The bride twists her ankle while dancing in heels: Ankle sprains … Continued

With summer fast approaching, it’s time to get your yard and garden ready… but is your body ready? If you’re like most of us who have spent the winter hibernating on our couches, you may be at risk for injury as you head outside and engage in physical activity. If you engage in physical activity … Continued

According to ESPN, Ulnar Collateral Ligament (“UCL”) reconstruction, frequently referred to as Tommy John surgery, is approaching “epidemic” frequency among professional athletes. The procedure is common among collegiate and professional athletes in several sports, most notably baseball. According to Adam Discepolo, Partner and Clinical Director at Professional Physical Therapy’s Merrick clinic, professional athletes, however, are … Continued

March is National Athletic Training Month! Certified Athletic Trainers (ATs) play an important role in keeping student athletes safe on the field and court. We talked with Angelo Marsella, Director of Sports Medicine, and Sports Medicine Coordinators Elissa Linderman and Stacey Schreiber about what Athletic Trainers do and why they’re so important. What do Athletic Trainers do? Elissa … Continued

Shoveling snow may be the most physically challenging exercise you face this winter and during the entire year. “While regular exercise and strengthening your legs and core before winter arrives is highly recommended, following the tips below can help reduce the likelihood of injury while shoveling snow,” said Jeff Yellin, Partner and Regional Clinical Director … Continued

To some, the New Year is an opportunity to start with a clean slate and tackle those goals put off in 2014. And like many of us, this means starting, or getting back into, fitness. While this is a great goal, how you approach it is very important to your success. Too often, one’s eagerness … Continued

This article was originally posted by Cusi Cram on December 22, 2014 in the web magazine Cafe.com. Chances are you are sitting while you read this. And it’s killing you. Sitting is linked to an encyclopedia of ill health, including diabetes, heart disease, circulatory problems, muscle degeneration, varicose veins, blood clots, a slow metabolic rate, … Continued

With the holiday season in full swing, it’s not just the crowds of shoppers that you’ll have to masterfully plan your way around. It’s also those common holiday-related aches and strains. Professional Physical Therapy wants to make sure you enjoy time spent with your loved ones and learn how to avoid these potential injuries. Here, … Continued

We’ve all heard the saying “use it or lose it.” It applies to your brain, your muscles, and possibly your health insurance and/or Flexible Spending Account benefits! Gift shopping, entertaining family and friends, and other holiday activities often cause us to temporarily put our healthcare on the back burner and add it to next year’s … Continued

September is Fruits and Veggies – More Matters Month, which makes it the perfect time to load up on these beneficial foods. Fruits and vegetables are crucial to a healthy diet, but did you know certain types can reduce inflammation and strengthen bones? The following nine fruits and veggies offer a tasty way to alleviate … Continued

The US Open Tennis Championship is here, and tennis enthusiasts are all looking forward to watching their favorite players over the next two weeks! While tennis is an exhilarating game for players and fans alike, many do not realize the extent of injuries that can be caused by playing this sport. Tennis injuries are extremely … Continued

As a new parent, time is your most valuable resource — often stretched beyond what you feel is possible. Juggling taking care of your newborn, your home, your job, and more can be overwhelming. Healthy habits, including staying fit, usually suffer as new moms and dads adjust to their unfamiliar lifestyles. But, remaining active and … Continued

Reposted on July 10, 2014 in honor of the MLB All-Star Game July 15, 2014. “Physical therapists are experts in improving mobility and motion and eliminating pain. For young baseball players, physical therapists can help prevent injuries from occurring and facilitate recovery when they occur.” Professional Physical Therapy’s Adam Discepolo, Clinical Director of our Merrick office, discusses … Continued

Imagine for a moment that your young child has been diagnosed with leukemia. You bring them to all of their appointments with their cancer care team, holding their hand the entire time. You watch as they slowly weaken from chemotherapy sessions, but encourage them with optimistic words. You pray anxiously for the day when the … Continued

We interviewed Dean Maddalone, Director of the Professional Athletic Performance Center (PAPC), about what’s in store for athletes this summer at the 20,000 square foot professional-grade indoor facility, located in Garden City, NY. Summer’s right around the corner. What can we expect at the PAPC? Every summer is a lot of fun at the Professional … Continued

By Julianne Mele I never thought I would run a marathon. I also never understood why people participated in an event so strenuous, and I couldn’t quite grasp the enjoyment of running hours on end. I remember watching Olympians running the 26.2 miles on TV and asking myself, ‘What do they think about for so … Continued

Reposted on April 1, 2014 in Honor of National Workplace Wellness Week By Erica Marcano, MS ATC, CSCS | Originally posted on October 14, 2013.   Do you experience headaches during the workweek that seem to disappear over the weekend? You’ve probably attributed these to the stress of your job, but did you know that tension … Continued

 “So you train people at the gym, right?”; “So you’re basically like a coach?” or “Are you a Phys Ed teacher?” As a Certified Athletic Trainer (AT), these are some of the questions I get asked about my profession on a regular basis, and my typical off-the-cuff answer is “You know the one in the khakis … Continued

Even though there are several inches of snow still covering most golf courses up and down the East Coast, that’s no reason to stop getting yourself ready for the 2014 season.  Maybe your holidays yielded a new driver or wedge you’re itching to use; maybe you have some new shoes that you can’t wait to … Continued

While watching the Winter Olympics, it’s natural to wonder what it takes to compete at that level but, believe it or not, even elite athletes struggle with challenges like the rest of us when it comes to training and rehab! Chances are your Physical Therapist is using some of the same strategies as Team USA … Continued

Between all the snow we’ve been getting, and the arrival of the Winter Olympics, skiing is on everyone’s mind. Knee, Shoulder and Thumb injuries are all common in skiers, and believe it or not, these injuries occur more often in intermediate and advanced athletes than in beginners! To help you enjoy your ski season, we’ve … Continued

By Robert A. Panariello MS, PT, ATC, CSCS  and Tim Stump MS, PT, CSCS, USAW   Winter has arrived here in the Northeast, and along with it comes many illnesses associated with upper and lower respiratory infections.  Some of us battle through our days trying to fight it, but many of us pay that visit to … Continued

By Erica Marcano, MS ATC, CSCS and Lauren Panariello Each sport has its list of common injuries, from ACL tears in soccer to Tommy John surgery in baseball. Just because an injury occurs fairly often, it doesn’t mean it should become the norm for an athlete in that sport.  In fact, at the most elite … Continued

By Erica Marcano, MS ATC, CSCS We’ve all heard the saying “use it or lose it” … it applies to your brain, your muscles … and possibly your health insurance and/or Flexible Spending Account benefits! Gift shopping, entertaining family and friends, and other holiday activities often cause us to temporarily put our healthcare on the … Continued

By Harlan Pyes, edited by Lauren Panariello Harlan Pyes is the founder of Harlan Health Products, and a veteran of the Healthcare Industry for over three decades.    Laser Therapy has been used for almost 60 years around the world to treat a variety of conditions, but it wasn’t until 2002 that the FDA approved … Continued

By Erica Marcano, MS ATC, CSCS and Lauren Panariello   It doesn’t take long after sustaining an injury to start asking the question, “When can I get back to my regular life?”  The goal of Physical Therapy is always to return patients to their previous level of activity while keeping them pain-free and preventing future … Continued

By Erica Marcano, MS ATC, CSCS and Lauren Panariello   As a Certified Athletic Trainer practicing in New York City, I see far too many patients in our clinics who’ve suffered from cycling accidents. Even the most experienced cyclists, from competitive tri-athletes to BMX-ers, become victims of Mother Nature, pedestrians, and motorists. More Americans ride … Continued