Empowering Your Recovery Journey
At Klaff Sports Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to helping you regain strength and mobility through personalized care and expert guidance. Discover a path to a pain-free life with our specialized treatment plans.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Our Expert Therapists and Staff
Marina Klaff, PT, MSPT
Owner
Originally from Ukraine, Marina Klaff brings grit, resilience, and over two decades of expertise to the field of physical therapy. After immigrating to Pittsburgh, PA, she pursued her academic path in New York, earning her undergraduate and physical therapy degrees. Not long after, she met her husband, Adam, and moved to Baltimore, MD—where she’s built a life, a career, and a deep connection to the community she now proudly calls home.
For more than 22 years, Marina has specialized in outpatient orthopedics, earning a reputation for her hands-on approach and results-driven mindset. Her therapy style blends advanced manual techniques with highly targeted exercise programming. Marina sets a high bar for her patients—and herself—bringing relentless focus, clinical precision, and compassion to every session.
Certified in dry needling and running mechanics, Marina is constantly evolving her skillset to stay ahead in her field. Outside the clinic, she thrives on movement, adventure, and travel—fueling her belief that an active life is a fulfilled one.
Jennifer Lowenberg, DPT
Staff Physical Therapist
Jennifer is originally from Northern Virginia but has lived in New York, Texas, Japan, and now Maryland, following her husband’s career in the Air Force. She earned her degree in Nutritional Science from Cornell University, where she was also a member of the track and field team, specializing in the pole vault. Jennifer went on to earn her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2019.
Since then, she has worked with a wide variety of clients in orthopedic settings and takes pride in building strong connections with each of her patients. She looks forward to continuing her physical therapy career and serving the local community.
Outside of the clinic, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family—including her husband, their dog, and their 2 year-old daughter, exploring nature, hiking, traveling, and trying out local restaurants.
Susan Brooks, MSPT
Staff Physical Therapist
With over 20 years of experience in the field, Susan Brook is a highly respected physical therapist specializing in sports injuries, neurologic rehabilitation, and pulmonary therapy. Her passion for physical therapy was born out of personal experience—after facing and overcoming a series of sports-related injuries in her youth, Susan was inspired by the dedicated therapists who helped her regain strength and mobility. This transformative experience fueled her desire to help others achieve the same.
Susan went on to earn her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Temple University, where she received extensive training in evidence-based rehabilitation practices. Throughout her career, she has worked in a variety of clinical settings, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of both acute and chronic conditions. Whether treating elite athletes, individuals recovering from strokes or neurological disorders, or patients managing chronic respiratory conditions, Susan brings a compassionate and individualized approach to every treatment plan.
Her commitment to continuing education and professional growth keeps her at the forefront of the latest advancements in physical therapy. She is especially passionate about patient education and empowering individuals to take an active role in their recovery and long-term health.
Outside the clinic, Susan enjoys spending quality time with her family. She is an avid lover of the outdoors and can often be found hiking scenic trails or kayaking local rivers and lakes on the weekends.
Bonnie Schulman, PT
Staff Physical Therapist
Bonnie has served as a presenter, instructor, and physical therapist at institutions including Goucher College, the Baltimore School for the Arts, Howard Community College, Hopewell Cancer Support Center, as well as various schools and recreation programs throughout Baltimore County.
She is passionate about sharing the benefits of mindful movement and looks forward to helping others move with ease, awareness, and joy.
Sheri Felsher
Office Manager and Biller
As the Office Manager and Biller, Sheri is the driving force behind the smooth day-to-day operations at Klaff Sports Physical Therapy. With a warm smile and meticulous attention to detail, she ensures that every patient feels welcomed, supported, and well-cared for from their first call to their final appointment. Quite simply, Sheri is the heart of the office—keeping everything running seamlessly behind the scenes.
Sheri brings a wealth of experience to her role. Her expertise in medical billing, paired with years of administrative work at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School and a teaching background in Baltimore County Public Schools, gives her a unique and well-rounded skill set. She combines efficiency, empathy, and professionalism to make sure both patients and staff have what they need to succeed.
A proud Baltimore native, Sheri thrives on building genuine connections with patients, many of whom she already knows through her strong community ties. Her approachable nature and deep-rooted local knowledge create a comforting and familiar environment for everyone who walks through the door.
Outside the clinic, Sheri enjoys spending time with her family, and unwinding with hobbies like crocheting, puzzles, and reading.
Sheri’s blend of experience, community connection, and steadfast dedication makes her truly irreplaceable at Klaff Sports Physical Therapy.
About Klaff Sports Physical Therapy
Our team specializes in a wide range of advanced services, including Kinesio taping, cupping, dry needling, Astym therapy and blood flow restriction therapy, are all designed to accelerate recovery and improve performance. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or striving to reach a new level of physical health, we tailor each treatment plan to your individual needs and goals.
We take pride in the personal attention we provide. At Klaff Sports Physical Therapy, you’re not just another patient, you’re part of our community. You’ll notice the difference from your very first visit: our office feels like home, and our staff is here to support you every step of the way.
That said, we expect commitment. Physical therapy is a partnership and we’re here for those who are serious about doing the work it takes to get better. If you’re ready to invest in your health and want a team that’s just as invested in your recovery, we’re ready to help you get there.
Let’s move forward together.
Services We Offer
Blood Flow Restriction
Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) therapy is a cutting-edge rehabilitation technique that enhances strength, muscle growth, and recovery using low-intensity exercise. BFR involves applying a specialized cuff or band to a limb to partially restrict blood flow during targeted exercises. This controlled restriction creates a physiological environment that mimics high-intensity training, even while using light weights or minimal resistance.
This makes BFR particularly effective for individuals recovering from surgery or injury who are unable to tolerate traditional strength training. It’s especially beneficial in early stages of rehab, helping patients maintain or improve muscle mass and strength without overstressing healing tissues or joints.
Research consistently shows that BFR can speed up recovery times, reduce muscle atrophy, and improve functional outcomes—making it a valuable tool in both post-operative care and general orthopedic rehabilitation. I incorporate BFR when appropriate to help my patients recover faster, rebuild strength safely, and return to their normal activities with greater confidence.
Dry Needling
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is an invasive procedure in which a solid filament needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point. A myofascial trigger point consists of multiple contraction knots, which are related to the production and maintenance of the pain cycle.
Is dry needling similar to acupuncture?
There are many similarities and differences between dry needling and acupuncture. Licensed physical therapists in a growing number of states can use dry needling under the scope of their practice. Dry needling also falls within the scope of acupuncture practice. Physical therapists a Klaff Sports Physical Therapy are not licensed acupuncturists and do not practice acupuncture. In contrast to most schools of acupuncture, dry needling is strictly based on Western medicine principles and research.
How does dry needling work?
The exact mechanisms of dry needling are not known. There are mechanical and biochemical effects. Based on the pioneering studies by Dr. Jay Shah and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health, we know that inserting a needle into trigger points can cause favorable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain. It is essential to elicit so-called local twitch responses, which are spinal cord reflexes. Getting local twitch responses with dry needling is the first step in breaking the pain cycle.
What types of problems can be treated with dry needling?
Dry needling can be sued for a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Muscles are thought to be a primary contributing factor to the symptoms. Such conditions include, but are not limited to neck, back and shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headache to buttock pain and leg pain (sciatica, hamstrings strains, calf tightness/spasms). The treatment of muscles has the greatest effect on reducing pain mechanisms in the nervous system.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle. The local twitch response elicits a very brief (less than a second painful response. Some patients describe this as a little electrical shock; others feel it more like a cramping sensation. Again, the therapeutic response occurs with the elicitation of local twitch responses and that is a good desirable reaction.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes, we only use sterile disposable needles.
What side effects can I expect after the treatment?
Most patients report being sore after the procedure. The soreness is described as muscle soreness over the area treated and into the areas of referred symptoms. Typically, the soreness lasts between a few hours and two days.
What should I do after having the procedure?
Our recommendations vary depending on the amount of soreness you have and on the individual response to the treatment. Recommendations may include applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretches and modification of activities.
How long does it take for the procedure to work?
Typically, it takes several visits for a positive reaction to take place. Again, we are trying to cause mechanical and biochemical changes without any pharmacological means. Therefore, we are looking for a cumulative response to achieve a certain threshold after which the pain cycle is disturbed.
Why is my doctor not familiar with dry needling?
In the U.S., dry needling is a relatively new method for treating myofascial pain and not everyone is already aware of the effective modality. Feel free to inform your doctor about the treatment option. It is upon all of us to educate others about new and innovative ways to treat pain.
Where does my dry needling fit in the entire rehabilitation program?
Generally speaking, dry needling is the modality of choice when it comes to treating patients in the clinic. More frequently, dry needling is needed in the beginning in order to break the pain cycle. Once that is achieved, other treatment options are introduced.
Once I am feeling better, how often to I need to come back to maintain my progress?
The musculoskeletal system is under constant pressure from gravity, stress, work etc. A regular exercist program combined with good posture can prevent many problems. If the pain comes back, “tune-ups” are recommended to treat and prevent serious injuries.
Kinesio taping
What is Kinesio Taping?
Kinesio Taping is a special technique that uses a stretchy, cloth-like tape to help support your muscles and joints without limiting your movement. It’s commonly used to help with pain, swelling, and muscle function.
How does it work?
The tape is applied to your skin in specific patterns, depending on what your body needs. Once applied, it gently lifts the skin, which can help:
- Improve blood flow and reduce swelling
- Support muscles and joints during activity
- Relieve pain by taking pressure off certain areas
- Help your body heal naturally
What does it feel like?
Kinesio Tape is soft, flexible, and breathable. It moves with your body, so most people barely notice it after it’s applied. It can stay on for 3 to 5 days—even through showers and daily activities.
Is it safe?
Yes, it’s generally safe for most people. The tape is latex-free and designed to be gentle on the skin. However, it’s always a good idea to have it applied by a trained professional who knows how to use it properly for your specific condition.
Cupping
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is a traditional therapy that involves placing special cups on your skin to create suction. This suction helps improve blood flow, loosen tight muscles, and promote healing. It’s commonly used for pain relief, tension, and inflammation.
How does it work?
When the cup is placed on your skin, a vacuum is created—either by heat or a pump—which gently pulls the skin and underlying tissue upward. This action helps:
- Increase circulation to the area
- Relieve muscle tension and stiffness
- Reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Support the body’s natural detox process
What does it feel like?
Most people describe cupping as a gentle pulling sensation. It’s usually not painful, though you may feel some tightness while the cups are in place (typically 5–15 minutes). Afterward, you might see round marks or bruises on your skin where the cups were—these are normal and usually fade within a few days.
Is it safe?
Yes, cupping is generally safe when done by a trained professional. However, it’s not recommended for people with certain health conditions like bleeding disorders or skin infections. Be sure to let your provider know about your medical history.
Astym
What is ASTYM Therapy?
ASTYM (pronounced “A-stim”) is a specialized treatment that helps your body heal soft tissue problems—like muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It’s often used for pain, stiffness, or injuries that aren’t healing well on their own.
How does it work?
During ASTYM therapy, a trained provider uses specially designed tools to gently glide over your skin. These tools help identify and treat areas where your soft tissues may be tight, inflamed, or have scar tissue buildup. The treatment helps:
- Break down unhealthy scar tissue
- Stimulate your body to rebuild healthy tissue
- Improve movement and reduce pain
- Speed up recovery from injuries
What does it feel like?
You may feel some mild pressure or scraping during the treatment—kind of like a deep massage. It’s usually well-tolerated, though some areas may be a little tender. Afterward, you might see some mild redness or bruising, which is normal and temporary.
What is it used for?
ASTYM is commonly used to treat:
- Tendonitis (like tennis elbow or Achilles tendonitis)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Scar tissue from surgery or injuries
- Chronic pain or stiffness
- Sports and overuse injuries
Is it safe?
Yes, ASTYM is safe when performed by a certified provider. It’s backed by research and widely used by physical therapists and other healthcare professionals. Your therapist will tailor the treatment to your specific needs and condition.
Conditions We Treat
Neck and Back Pain
Sports Injuries
Rehabilitation After Surgery
Car Accidents
Workplace Accidents
Hip, Knee, and Ankle Pain
Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Pain
TMJ Dysfunction
Headaches
Balance Disturbance
Postural Abnormalities
Understanding Direct Access
No Referral Needed
In Maryland, direct access allows you to consult a physical therapist without needing a physician’s referral. This approach streamlines your care, enabling quicker assessments and personalized treatment plans. By seeing a physical therapist directly, you can address your concerns promptly, potentially reducing the time spent in pain and accelerating your recovery process. This autonomy empowers patients to take charge of their health and wellness, ensuring that care is both efficient and effective.
Convenient House Call Services
Klaff Sports Physical Therapy is now providing physical therapy in the convenience of your home!
At Klaff Sports Physical Therapy, our goal is to maximize the independence and wellness of our patients in the comfort and privacy of their homes.
What Our Patients Say
“Marina Klaff has helped me when I thought it was not possible.”
Devorah Estreicher Messing
“Marina is amazing. She hears you and will find the problem and fix it.”
Gwen Shar
“I was completely out of shape when I recklessly and stubbornly decided to train for a marathon. After two years of difficult training I just completed that goal at the Disney World Marathon Weekend. I could NOT have accomplished this without the tireless and skilled help that I received from Klaff Sports. Marina was there for me from plantar fasciitis to pulled muscles and everything in between. Marina helped me achieve the greatest physical accomplishment of my life and she did it with her unique blend of cheerleader and drill sergeant. Thank you Marina and Klaff Sports!”
David 'Dov' Shar
We are trained from youth “healthy body, healthy mind.” You have been and continue to be a significant key in “fixing my body” enabling me to be more active comfortably. Not many people in your field have the determination, caring, tough love, and the ability to analyze that you do . I APPRECIATE YOU and your team.
Although we re not socially “friends,” I want you to know that your concern for my well being is usually shown only by friends, spouses and children. But your ability to analyze and affect changes is truly amazing and I need you to know that I am really appreciative.”