Kessler Rehabilitation Center

04/02/2026

Building strength and resilience is part of our mission. Which is why, on this National Girls and Women in Sports Day and World Cancer Day, we’re proud to honor both.

Carolyn Kalpas touches both worlds as an athlete and ReVital Cancer Rehabilitation program director. In our latest video, learn how she uses the skills she learned in sports to help patients who are facing some of life’s toughest battles.

03/02/2026

Regan Balmoja has always been an athlete and outdoor enthusiast.

"In high school, I was a successful pole vaulter and a very unsuccessful cross-country runner," she said. "During the one season I tried cross-country, I couldn't finish a single race without walking."

Always up for a challenge, Regan decided to give distance running another try. In fact, she decided to train for a marathon.

Unfortunately for Regan, she struggled with shin pain in the early months of training. Sports Medicine Coordinator Liz Serewicz was instrumental in kicking off Regan's care plan, which included basic exercises that eased her initial symptoms. When the pain returned, Regan started working with Physical Therapist Zachary Meineke.

"Once I got into the center and started working with Zach, I knew I was in the right place," Regan said.

A key moment for Regan was reviewing video footage with Zachary, when they discovered dysfunction in her running gait. Zachary recommended targeted exercises and stretching to restore healthy biomechanics and build strength. Just a few months made a huge difference.

"I went from counting myself out of the marathon to crossing the finish line with a smile on my face and then many happy tears," Regan said. “Now, I feel like I know what muscles I need to continue to focus on strengthening. Not only so I can begin training for another marathon next year, but so that I can enjoy running and other fitness activities year round!”

02/02/2026

We know the power of sports firsthand. They help shape confidence, resilience and leadership for life.

National Girls and Women in Sports Day is Wednesday, but we’re celebrating all week. From youth to adulthood, we’re honored to highlight the incredible impact sports have on our lives as well as the amazing women who help athletes get back in the game.

What are you because of sports? Tell us below!

01/02/2026

February is Heart Month! Did you know outpatient physical therapy can make a real difference in keeping your heart healthy? Whether you’re recovering from a cardiac event or just looking to lower your risk, moving safely and with intention is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Our physical therapists are here to help you rebuild your endurance, improve your mobility and get back to doing what you love with confidence.

31/01/2026

After suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a motorcycle accident in Costa Rica in March of 2024, Codey Vargas needed a hemicraniectomy to relieve pressure on his brain. He was then placed in a medically-induced coma until he was stable enough to return to the States.

Codey initially spent time at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – West Orange until he was strong enough to start outpatient physical and occupational therapy at our Tom’s River – Lakehurst Road center in July of 2025 with Physical Therapists Tara Burgard and Kelly Herman and Occupational Therapist Jillian Bowden.

Early on, Codey relied on a wheelchair for mobility and was using a walker during rehabilitation. During his sessions, he and his clinicians focused on gait training, strength and balance. Codey has made improvements and is getting better every day.

Additionally, when Codey first began occupational therapy, he had difficulty cutting his food, dressing himself and gripping and carrying items with his left hand. Now, he’s able to cut foods, manipulate zippers and buttons and open jars and water bottles. He continues to make great strides with his independence and activities of daily living.

To read more about Codey’s journey at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, visit https://bit.ly/4ahMMsN.

30/01/2026

Maybe you've noticed your child is looking to one side and not the other or that everyone else's toddler is, well, toddling. Now what? Your child might need physical therapy! Check out these signs to see if your child could benefit from treatment.

28/01/2026

We're excited to attend the EMACC's Health & Wellness EXPO this Friday. Come see us!

Serving Local Businesses For Nearly 100 Years Founded in 1928, the Eastern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce (EMACC) has supported our business and community in many ups and downs for nearly 100 years. EMACC plays an essential role in the health of the business community regionally and statewide. Our mis...

27/01/2026

We are proud to partner with the NAHL New Jersey Titans as their official physical therapy provider. From keeping the team game ready to supporting the health and recovery of their fans, we’re excited to bring top tier sports physical therapy and performance services to the entire Titans community.

Here’s to a strong, healthy and winning season — on and off the ice!

24/01/2026

Snow shoveling sends an average of 11,500 adults to emergency rooms every year, according to a study published by The American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

So, before you head outside, check out these PT-approved tips to avoid injury and overexertion.

Save for quick reference before the snow begins, and share with a neighbor who could use the reminders.

23/01/2026

Janelle Wilson has been coming to various Kessler Rehabilitation Center locations off and on over the past 20 years. She has received physical, occupational and speech therapy and to show her appreciation, she created artwork to honor the three disciplines.

"This is to all the locations and staff that have helped me," said Janelle. "I wanted to create artwork that shows the purpose of Kessler. Thank you for helping me since I was 13 years old."

We appreciate this wonderful gesture, Janelle!