NovaCare Rehabilitation

07/17/2025

Imagine arriving to your first physical therapy appointment in a wheelchair and then walking your daughter down the aisle just 10 months later.

That was Larry Heemskerk’s goal when he came to physical therapy back in September. Larry had a history of dizzy spells as well as some impairments in his gait and balance. Working with Physical Therapists Tori Searcy and Alissa Milos, Larry slowly gained his strength back with exercises like standing, marching with weights and resisted cable column walking.

Throughout their time together, Tori and Larry agreed on just about everything except two things: how many laps of walking they were going to do each day and which team was going to win the Big Game. Despite their disagreements, Larry was ultimately the winner, as he completed his rehabilitation and successfully walked his daughter down the aisle. He even took part in the father-daughter dance with his daughter, Danielle.

Larry returned after the wedding to express his gratitude to Tori and Alissa. “You both did such a good job,” said Larry. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

07/14/2025

Who could use a vacation?

Our extensive network of physical therapy centers ensures you receive quality care no matter where your summer travels take you. In many cases, you don't need a prescription. Rest assured, you'll receive the same exceptional care from any of our brands. Just check out our "find a location" page to locate a center near you - or wherever you are headed!

07/13/2025

Sophia Canduci-Stiles was playing third base in September 2024 when she felt a pop in her left knee and fell to the ground.

After seeing an orthopedic doctor, it was determined she would need surgery to repair her Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL).

Before her operation, Sophia began “prehab” at NovaCare Rehabilitation in Delran, New Jersey, so she could strengthen the knee and prepare her body for a smoother recovery. In October, she underwent a successful procedure and returned to physical therapy, determined to get back to the sport she loves.

Over the past several months, there were tears of pain and tears of joy. Some days the exercises felt impossible, but Sophia persevered. On July 2, her last day of rehabilitation, she passed her return-to-sport testing with flying colors and is now motivated to try out for several travel softball teams.

This summer, Sophia is looking forward to stepping back on the field, cheering on her favorite team, the Philadelphia Phillies, and enjoying all summer has to offer.

07/12/2025

For when you want to actually enjoy your vacation, and not spend it in pain, read our latest blog. Learn about proper packing to avoid injuries, movements for long flights and road trip posture to get the most out of your time off.

As the summer adventures begin, we have some great tips to prepare you for your time away while keeping your body in prime shape for movement on the journey.

07/11/2025

E‑bikes and e‑scooters are fast and fun. That thrill of the ride is sending record numbers of people to the emergency room.

Swipe for need-to-know stats and five physical therapist-approved safety tips to keep you moving and injury-free.

Ready to ride smarter? Our experts can help.

07/10/2025

Mario League-Stein was born with Amniotic Band Syndrome, a rare congenital condition that causes a range of birth defects, including necessary amputations.

Mario, now 26, has worked with NovaCare Prosthetics & Orthotics for many years and recently came to our Oregon, Ohio center to get fitted for a microprocessor knee. It's a type of prosthetic that uses sensors to adjust his knee's resistance and movement in real-time, mimicking natural knee movement and enhancing stability. He worked with Certified Prosthetist & Orthotist and Center Manager Angela Kanavel.

"Angela is amazing," he said. "She checks in with me often and asks about any issues."

Mario's new microprocessor knee allows him to do more than he's ever done before and he can feel himself getting stronger. The new knee also allows him to easily sit down and stand up.

“I’ve learned and adapted to being an amputee since it’s all I’ve known,” he said. “The hardest thing to deal with is the social aspect of being an amputee, but I’m proud of the strides I’ve made in accepting myself and am grateful for the different life perspectives I’ve learned.”

Now sporting a new prosthetic, Mario is looking forward to running around and playing with his young daughter.

07/09/2025

“This morning, my six-year-old daughter jumped completely on her own for the very first time in her life. She looked at me, jumped and we both just started crying happy tears. It was such a powerful moment, one that I’ve been working towards for a long time. And it’s all thanks to the progress she’s made in physical therapy.”

Those are the words of Lylah Lam's mother, Avalon, who turned to NovaCare Rehabilitation in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, for help with her daughter. Although Lylah can walk, she has struggled with rocker bottom feet, a condition in which the bottom of the foot is convex (like a rocking chair base), making it difficult to balance and bear weight properly. It affects her ability to run, jump and keep up with kids her age.

“She has so much spirit and drive, but her body just wasn’t able to do what her heart wanted to do,” said Avalon.

Avalon and Lylah met with Physical Therapist Sabrina Di Tucci and, while they were nervous at first, they felt hopeful that physical therapy could help. Sabrina created a personalized treatment plan and, with hard work, Lylah began to see big improvements. She walked more confidently, started trying to jump and most importantly, she believed in herself.

“I saw her go from hesitant to determined, and that shift was a major breakthrough,” her mother said. “The most important thing has always been that Lylah could fully participate in life and be able to play, move and have fun without being held back.”

Lylah is now stronger, more confident and excited to cheer, play outside and keep up with friends.

“Our experience has been amazing. The care, patience and encouragement Lylah received stand out most. I absolutely recommend you to any family. We’re so thankful we found you. Lylah’s therapist, Sabrina, has been nothing short of amazing.”

07/04/2025

We wish you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July.

06/30/2025

Cancer survivorship does not begin at the end of treatment. It's a lifelong status that begins at the time of diagnosis, and there's support for survivors starting at day one.

Read our blog to learn about the best time to begin cancer rehabilitation and the five key benefits it brings.

Regardless of your cancer type or treatment, cancer rehabilitation specialists can enhance recovery and assist with the management of current or persistent issues secondary to cancer treatments.

06/30/2025

When Lillian Brennan Curtis first met Physical Therapist Laura Hanson at NovaCare Rehabilitation in June 2015, she was in a wheelchair recovering from a fall down her basement steps that left her with a broken leg. What began as a single recovery journey quickly became the start of a long and meaningful partnership.

After four months of physical therapy, Laura helped Lillian get back on her feet. But new challenges emerged, two worn-out hips and two failing knees. Undeterred, Lillian faced each surgery head-on, returning to Laura for support and guidance every step of the way.

She had her knees replaced one at a time, working tirelessly to regain mobility. One of her most memorable moments was the day she could pedal a full circle on the exercise bike after knee surgery, a small motion that meant big progress. That milestone gave her confidence that she was on the right path.

After retiring, Lillian went on to have both hips replaced. Once again, she trusted Laura to help her rebuild strength, restore balance and gradually increase her walking distance. It wasn’t just about healing, it was about getting her life back.

“It may seem like a simple thing, but being able to walk without pain is huge,” Lillian said. “Of course, walking without pain means I can travel, go to Broadway shows, concerts and sporting events. My quality of life has improved exponentially.”

Today, Lillian is back to doing the things she loves including riding her bike, strolling the beach and exploring new places. Reflecting on her journey, she credits her success to Laura’s compassionate care and expertise.

“Her expertise in knee and hip replacement rehabilitation really shined,” Lillian said. “I felt like I was in great hands the entire time. She created a personalized treatment plan that was both challenging and effective. She is a great listener and is warm and compassionate in her approach. I really felt fortunate to have her as my PT.”

06/28/2025

A cancer diagnosis already comes with a lot of uncertainty. Cancer rehabilitation can offer practical support to help you manage symptoms, regain strength and get back to the things that are important to you. Knowing what to expect throughout care can give you more confidence to move forward.

As we wrap up Cancer Rehabilitation Month, join us to raise awareness, support survivors and spread the message about how cancer rehabilitation is changing lives.



Learn more here: www.cancerrehabmonth.org

06/28/2025

Madison Lorimer, a proud active-duty member of the U.S. Coast Guard, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the nerves. The condition can progress rapidly, leading to muscle weakness, loss of mobility and, in some cases, paralysis.

Madison had reached the point where she could no longer work without assistance. She needed help with basic daily tasks, including personal hygiene. She could not drive and struggled with any activity requiring balance. Walking the beach with her family, once a simple joy, felt out of reach. As her condition worsened, she faced the frightening possibility of a medical discharge from the Coast Guard.

Determined to fight for her recovery, Madison began physical therapy with McKenzie Wenrich and Melissa Mendoza at NovaCare Rehabilitation in partnership with AtlantiCare in Mays Landing, New Jersey. Her care plan included targeted strength training, balance work, neuromuscular re-education and gait retraining, all designed to restore her independence.

Today, Madison has returned to duty, achieved her therapy goals and reclaimed the life she fought so hard for. She now walks the beach unassisted with her son and rides her bike with her family, milestones that once felt impossible.