Rising Stars Pediatric Physical Therapy

02/18/2026

At Rising Stars ⭐️ we strive for the best — helping little ones grow through play! Our physical therapy sessions are fun-based, child-led, and always evidence-based to support real progress every step of the way. 💛✨

📍 West Orange, NJ
📞 973-486-4404

02/05/2026

We’re Growing! Please Welcome Our New Physical Therapist ✨

We are excited to announce that Dr. Michelle Dominy-Marx, PT, DPT has joined our team!

Michelle Dominy-Marx is a licensed physical therapist with a passion for working with children to help them reach their fullest potential. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Seton Hall University and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, earning academic honors from both universities.
Michelle began her career working in adult orthopedics, where she developed a strong foundation in movement analysis, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. She later discovered her professional home in school-based physical therapy, combining her clinical expertise with a commitment to pediatric care. Throughout her 19 years of physical therapy practice, she has gained extensive experience working in pediatric clinics and school settings, where she uses a collaborative approach with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to support children’s physical development and participation in daily activities and recreational pursuits.
She is dedicated to ongoing professional growth and has a strong interest in continuing education, particularly in motor learning, yoga, kinesiotaping, and reflex integration. These interests allow her to incorporate evidence-based, creative, and functional approaches into her treatment sessions.
Outside of work, Michelle is a proud mother of two sons and enjoys spending time with her family. She enjoys learning new things and, as an adult,t has taken ski and surf lessons. She has a passion for running.

02/03/2026

Rising Stars Presents: The First 90 Days: Set Your Baby Up for Success

A Premium Prenatal Movement & Positioning Consultation

This exclusive class is designed specifically for expecting mothers who want to feel confident, prepared, and empowered from the moment their baby arrives.

In this course, you will learn exactly what to do—and what to avoid—during your baby’s first 0 to 3 months of life.
In this consultation, you’ll learn how to:

✔ Prevent flat head spots (plagiocephaly & brachycephaly)
✔ Avoid side preference and early movement asymmetries
✔ Position your baby safely during sleep, play, and daily routines
✔ Perform tummy time the right way (without tears—for you or baby)
✔ Use sidelying and positioning techniques to support balanced development
✔ Support early motor milestones naturally and confidently

Why this class is different

This is not generic advice you’ll find on Google or social media.

This consultation is:
✨ Led by a pediatric movement specialist
✨ Evidence-based and prevention-focused
✨ Practical, hands-on, and easy to apply from day one
✨ Designed to help you avoid common mistakes many parents don’t learn about until it’s too late

Perfect for you if you want to:

• Feel confident handling and positioning your newborn
• Reduce the risk of needing therapy later
• Support healthy head shape and movement from the start
• Give your baby the strongest developmental foundation possible

Because prevention starts before birth.

Give your baby the gift of a strong, balanced beginning—and give yourself peace of mind during those precious early months.

01/15/2026

Noticing your baby always turns their head to the same side? Or seeing a little flat spot (plagiocephaly) forming on the back/side of their head?

You're not alone — and early action makes a HUGE difference!

Many babies develop a side preference (positional preference) or flat head syndrome because of spending lots of time on their backs (super important for SIDS prevention! ) or sometimes from tight neck muscles (like torticollis). Left unchecked, that favorite side can lead to more noticeable flattening, uneven ears/forehead, or even affect development down the line. The good news? Seeing a pediatric physical therapist EARLY (even as young as 5–8 weeks if you notice preference or flattening) can dramatically reduce the risk of severe plagiocephaly. Studies show PT with repositioning, tummy time guidance, and gentle stretches can cut severe cases by up to 50–60% when started young!

Why "wait and see" isn't the right choice here: Studies and pediatric PT experts agree: delaying often leads to longer/more intensive treatment later (or even needing a helmet), while early help gets faster, better results and avoids lasting cosmetic or functional issues.

01/01/2026

11/28/2025

Dear Families,

This Thanksgiving, I’m filled with gratitude for all of you.

To my amazing patients—the silly, brave, joyful kids who make me smile every single day: thank you for your hugs, your laughter, and the honor of helping you grow strong and healthy.

To the parents and families who trust me with your precious children: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your trust means the world.Wishing you a holiday full of love, laughter, and warmth.
With deepest thanks,
Dr. Alexandra Genis

10/26/2025

Join us for a Truck or Treat at Rising Stars. Swing by this Friday from 4-6 PM for sweet treats served from our awesome Cybertruck! Fun for all ages!

09/29/2025

Cybertruck vibes meet Rising Stars Pediatric PT – where little ones zoom to new heights! 🚀

09/28/2025

Fall is Here, and So is the School Season!

As the leaves change and kids head back to school, many parents are noticing their children struggling with challenges that can make learning tough. Does your child have trouble with:

Handwriting that’s hard to read?
Visual tracking when reading or copying from the board?
Sensory needs that make classrooms overwhelming?
Difficulty concentrating or sitting still in class?
Trouble controlling emotions or staying organized?

These are common signs that your child might benefit from occupational therapy (OT)! OT helps kids build the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond, from improving fine motor skills for writing to managing sensory challenges and boosting focus.

Let’s set your child up for success this school year!
Contact us at 973 486 4404 to schedule your child's appointment.
A confident, capable kid starts with the right support!

09/27/2025

Walking is a critical developmental milestone typically achieved between 9 and 18 months, with most children taking their first steps around their first birthday. This range varies, as each child develops at their own pace, influenced by factors like muscle strength, coordination, and neurological development. If a child shows delays in walking or other motor milestones by 15-18 months, consulting a physical therapist is crucial. Early intervention can address underlying issues such as muscle weakness, balance difficulties, or neurological conditions through targeted exercises and therapies. Timely physical therapy not only supports motor development but also fosters confidence and independence, preventing potential long-term developmental challenges.

09/26/2025