Services We Offer

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.