Novacare Rehabilitation

I can’t say enough good things about Mike Kelly and his team at Novacare on Diversey. Mike is not just very smart, he also has an ease to him when explaining the plan to fix the problem (in my case my lower trap from very bad shoulder pain) — and Mike is also very funny. I enjoyed working with John too, another PT at NC. The pain in my shoulder, which I had put up with for about one year, thinking that I could fix it on my own, became too great for me and I started seeing Mike in August 2015. I no longer have pain in my shoulder and I also have a a full plan, from Mike, for keeping it pain free going forward.
Mike also treated me for piriformis syndrome (I had very bad pain in my hip and in about 4 weeks of sessions with Mike and the team and daily exercises that he gave me to perform on my own in 2011, the pain was gone forever). His relaxed nature and his fun demeanor made going to PT much more enjoyable, but more importantly, successful for me in getting rid of pain — twice.
Miles

My visits here were not as good as another NovaCare location (Loop Wabash location) and other sports medicine professionals.
My experience was ok. I worked with Jon Williams, who may be at a different location at this point. I visited during Oct. 2014.
The reason for the lower score was due to treatment being inconsistent with the prescription a doctor from Rush Medical Center gave me and wasting my time with exercises that I flat out told them were a waste of time.
I had a minor calf strain, and the doctor at Rush, Dr. Mjaanes, along with the in-​house PT at Rush, gave me a prescription for physical therapy. The prescription called for 4 sessions of physical therapy from a «good manual therapist», get a couple exercises, and then continue them at home. Dr. Mjaanes and the Rush PT said there was no reason I had to attend more than 4 sessions. I tried making an appointment at their recommended therapist at the DePaul Novacare location, but unfortunately she went on leave the day before I called. They referred me to the Diversey location, which was more convenient for my commute home and also had a supposed decent manual therapist. That recommended therapist wasn’t available for a couple weeks, so I schedule with Jon, who they also said was pretty good.
I brought my prescription to the first visit, and they immediately scheduled me for 8 sessions, contrary to my prescription. I told them I only needed 4. Jon recommended I try the needling technique he performs, which is similar to acupuncture. I knew nothing about it, it was not what was prescribed, and I was on a compressed schedule to get back to running and I dealt with the injury long enough. I’m not sure they needling did anything other than make my right leg unusable for a few days following each needling session. To clarify — this review is to not say whether needling is a valuable treatment or not. I have no idea. It’s mainly based on the inconsistent treatment compared to prescription and the dismissive nature toward my concerns. During the week following my first appointment, I asked them multiple times if they spoke to Dr. Mjaanes or the Rush PT to make sure the change in treatment was reasonable. They said they called him and he never returned their call. I was able to speak to the Rush PT one week later, who said they never heard from Novacare about altering the plan. He also said he still believed there was no point in me going there more than 4 times. Because it takes several days to heal from the needling treatment, and sometimes takes a couple sessions to be effective, I ended up going all 8 sessions. I should have just flushed $ 240 down the toilet, would have been quicker. I will admit it was partly my fault for listening to them, but this was my first PT experience with such a noted communication breakdown.
Also, during several appointments, I asked about various plans I read about that would allow me to get back to running, mostly 15 – 30 minute run/​walk combinations. I know the internet is not a doctor, but as a patient I am definitely allowed to ask questions. There were several places describing these plans to help after a mild calf strain. He was pretty dismissive about what I was asking about.
In addition, I was provided with exercises similar to hip and calf exercises I’ve been given in the past, such as the side-​walking with the theraband. This is an effective exercise that I do at home regularly. It becomes ineffective when the band provides zero resistance. Almost every time I had an appointment at this location, they provided me bands that provided close to zero resistance. After taking one step, I would usually say there was no resistance and ask for a different band. On a couple occasions, they provided me something with very slight resistance. They told me to do the exercise anyway.
During my final appointment, after I had taken more than a month off from running, I decided to schedule no further appointments. They assigned me an intern (wish I remembered her name as she was quite helpful) to supervise my exercises. After starting the theraband exercise, I asked her if I can get a band with better resistance. She provided one that had slightly better resistance. It was still ineffective, so I asked if I can just move onto the next exercise, as I could do the theraband exercise at home. She said that made sense. Toward the end of the appointment, I asked the intern if she knew if they had any running plans on hand for returning to running after an injury. She said they did, she gave me a printed plan that had combinations of running and walking, similar to what I found online.
My recommendation: it is worth it to go to the Division and Damen location to see Omer Aguilar. He’s very good. Emily Streit at the Loop Wabash location is also good.

They make physical therapy fun. Might be the greatest place in the universe!
Offer free injury assessments and connect you with some of the best doctors in the city. If you even question an injury or preparing /​training for something you should check in with these guys.

When I barely walked into Novacare in January Mike and the team immediately made me know I was going to be able to run out soon. Every time I arrived the positivity, enthusiasm and encouragement mixed with humor and friendly banter made the struggle of recovery more pleasure than pain.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! As much as I miss you all, I hope to never see you again!

I don’t write Unilocal reviews very often, but the team at Novacare is most deserving.
I have unfortunately had many injuries and surgeries for a variety of issues — mostly for my knee and for my foot. Upon a recommendation from one of my triathlon coaches I went to Novacare for an injury screening for my «good» knee that was acting up. I was hesitant at first because when I lived in LA I went to a therapist who wasn’t very helpful (never sent my doc a report or follow up, same treatment every single session, etc.), but my coach said that this is where she sent her own mother, so I knew it had to be good. She was right.
I was able to get in quickly with physical therapist Mike Kelly for an injury screening. He helped me communicate with my doctor, dealt with my tricky insurance company and made everything a very easy process. Mike by far is the very best PT I have ever visited (I’ve been to 5 starting from age 16) for his treatment. Many times I have seen him give a patient a complete program to take home and do on their own after an initial screening, because he truly cares and is not just trying to keep patients around for the business. I think that says a lot.
When I was whining Mike listened with care and understanding. When I was frustrated he encouraged me to try other alternatives for fitness than I was used to and showed me how. When a new problem surfaced he gave me new exercises and amazing doctor recommendations. When I couldn’t find time to make it in during normal hours the team flexed their schedules to get me in. And goshdarnit I even enjoyed the time I got to spend with everyone there!
Outside of the treatment, the Novacare office staff is the best for how smoothly everything is run, how patients are treated and for their close communication with doctors. Whether you are a top athlete or a regular joe who got hurt on the job they treat you one and the same.
Ultimately, my issues were healed thanks to Novacare and the doctors they helped me find. I don’t think the average PT would have worked so hard and diligently to get me back on my feet, and I would highly recommend all of the therapists and assistants there because I think I worked with all of them at one point or another. Novacare is truly top notch, and if my own mother needed to see a PT I would absolutely send her there too!

I can only affirm the many 5-​star reviews for this Novacare location. I’ve been going off and on (mostly on) for a couple of years, for multiple chronic issues, after being referred to Mike Kelly by a chiropractor. They told me he’s the best, and they were right. He’s scientific, knowledgeable, professional, and serious about his work. He runs a tight ship, managing a group of excellent physical therapists and assistants (at the DePaul location as well as this one) with amazing efficiency and vigilance. He’s also smart, empathetic, caring, accessible, and motivational.
The Lincoln Park clientele tends to be young, thin, and athletic. Being none of those, I was uncomfortable and self-​conscious at first; however, it soon became clear that the awkwardness was all in my head and I was in the right place. The exercises and massage are personalized, focused, and practical. Everyone is positive and energetic, and I leave appointments having pushed myself hard and feeling better mentally as well as physically. I highly recommend this place, and Mike in particular.

I cannot express the gratitude I feel towards Mike Kelly and the team at Novacare for getting me back on track after tearing my ACL and 2 menisci. I am an avid tennis player and was very concerned that I would not be able to get back to the game. I tore my other ACL 20 years ago and did not have the most positive memories of my last PT experience.
I was referred to Mike immediately after my injury and prior to surgery. He helped me to understand the new ACL reconstruction methodology, which could help me avoid some of the pain I still feel in my other knee. Also, the pre-​surgery therapy that he provided was a crucial factor in my successful recovery.
Following the surgery, Mike and his amazing sidekick Meghan, implemented a comprehensive and rigorous program customized for my many issues. Although my sessions were challenging, they maintained an extremely fun and social environment. Mike has a passion and knowledge for his work that is extremely motivating.
I actually looked forward to every one of my sessions! After 7 ½ months, I was back on the court and am confident on my feet.
I should mention that I also worked with John & Therese while Mike was on his honeymoon. They were also excellent and I feel completely confident in any one of them if another injury should occur.
After my experience with this excellent group of therapists, I wouldn’t go anywhere else!!!

I had a great experience at the NovaCare LPAC! I had Jon Williams as my PT, and he was great — I really liked the dry needling technique, at least once the soreness went away. The only drawback is being closed on weekends, since it’s becoming near impossible for me to find time with my busy work schedule. Still, A+ — everybody pitches in, and a group of really nice folks!

I did about 10 sessions at NovaCare with Jon Williams, and he was a miracle worker! I was having some upper body/​back discomfort and everything he did was spot on. The first session is a diagnostic, and Jon did various strength, balance, and flexibility tests. From there he made a plan of attack to fix my problems and within 6 weeks I was almost completely pain free. This was my first experience with PT, so I didn’t know quite what to expect. I will say that my evening sessions tended to be a bit chaotic, as there are often twice as many PTs and clients there at night than there are in the mornings. However, no matter how busy Jon was with other clients he always made sure to check in on me as I was doing my exercises and never allowed me to feel lost. All of the PTs and assistants they have there are top notch, and I really felt like they were on the same page with all of the exercises.
I would definitely recommend Nova Care to anyone needing physical therapy, they really know their stuff!

I tore my ACL earlier this year and the Novacare team was recommended to me for my rehab. From the outset I knew I was in good hands. Mike worked with me in advance of my surgery, which was quite helpful both physically and mentally. Following the surgery, Mike and his team implemented a customized plan to get me back to running and physical activity.
Our sessions were actually fun! Mike mixes up the music and everyone is super friendly. The team is knowledgeable, patient and caring, and conversations flow easily. Everyone was there to help me. Much like Mike, Jon is a skilled therapist and Christie and Andrea were a pleasure to work with. Step by step I began to see improvement and my confidence grew. I’m now back to running and I’m actually in much better shape than when I started.
The team does an excellent job of keeping things fresh by mixing up exercises to keep you engaged and motivated. It was so comforting to know that Mike was there to answer questions and provide direction and reliable advice. You can tell that they stay current with the latest research and techniques. They actively listen to you and adjust the game plan accordingly.
I’m going to miss my sessions at Novacare and I absolutely recommend Mike and the whole team.

They took me from hobbling to being able to walk five miles on European vacation. There are no words I can say that describe how grateful I am to Mike Kelly and his staff — Christie and Andrea — so helpful, kind and amazing. With incredible affection I highly recommend them.

This is an amazing group of physical therapists that work at this location. Everyone is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. Therapists take the time to explain how long they think the injury will take to heal and how PT impacts that healing. They also are very good about not releasing you to activity that is more than your injury can handle. They will work on a comprehensive plan to get you back to what you love doing as fast and safely as possible. I rehabbed a torn rotator cuff with Mike Kelly at NovaCare and did not require surgery because of his expertise. My husband rehabbed an extremely rare hamstring injury with Mike Kelly and is back better and stronger than before his injury. I would never consider going anywhere else for PT.

Therese is an incredible physical therapist and I could not more highly recommend any facility more than I would Novacare. They have a friendly and knowlegeable staff and you will be in good hands no matter who you see!
I just had my second shoulder surgery and so I’m familiar with the rehab routine, but Therese is competent, motivating and friendly. All of them are so patient and incredibly good at what they do.
Who looks forward to going to post-​surgery physical therapy appointments?
Me! :)

Mike Kelly is beyond amazing. I saw him last year for weak hips and back (spondy) issues. I went from inability to stand for more than 5 or 6 min to running a half ironman in a matter of months. Neither of us were sure it would happen, but no one gave up. He worked with me and the doctor with full confidence until we found the right program and made it happen. He never gave up. And he was always there even after treatment to check how I was and answer questions /​concerns. His approach is creative and completely tuned in to you as a person and how he can leverage your strengths to move to a fully operational recovery.
And as others have said, I continue to use his methods and exercises, and have continued to improve after treatment. Great music from the ipod, ass’ts are enthusiastic and always helpful and learning and everyone has passion for sports and life. This team and facility should be the model for PT faciliites everywhere!

Dr Mike completely cured my plantar fasciitis. I had been suffering for years and after a couple of months working with him I’ve had no problems since. If you put in the work this team will fix you up. A year later I’m still pain free. I can’t recommend them enough.

By far, the best rehab place in Chicago. The staff is amazing: friendly, nice and extremely knowledgeable. Mike Kelley is the greatest PT– he has gotten me through many injuries and he always goes above and beyond. Even though I usually work with Mike, the other two PTs on staff, Jon and Therese, are also wonderful. I have been to other pt places, and they don’t even compare to Novacare. I actually love coming here because of the special attention they give to every patient. Novacare is the BEST!!!

I have spent the better part of the past 3 years working on and off with D. Mike Kelly at NovaCare. His genuine concern and regard for my injury (knee) prevented me from having another unnecessary surgery. Never again will I see an orthopedic doctor without first having Mike evaluate my injury regardless of the body part in question. It’s surprising that physical therapy can indeed be the answer over surgery but I am prove that doctors are sometimes quick to use the knife as the «cure» to an ailment.
Mike is very kind with his time and generous with his knowledge and I am comforted in knowing he is just around the corner.

THIS IS THE BEST PLACE TO GO FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY! Nova Care LPAC is probably the best as far as physical therapy can get. I have been a patient of Mike Kelly for about 2 to 3 years and I absolutely love him. Out of the 3 physical therapy places I have had treatment at, this is the best one. Mike and the other PTs do a create job of building a community in their office space and connecting with their patients. The best part about it is that you are always greeted by your name and they know who you are. You are not just a number in their system. They really know who you are and want to get to know you which makes the physical therapy even better. I used to hate physical therapy, but I love going and working with Mike. He is there to really help you and push you, and when he pushes you he makes it fun or distracts you by his stories to help time fly by. Over christmas break, I was barely able to walk a half a mile when I came home from college because of a compartment syndrome I have. After 6 weeks of working with Mike, I was so much stronger and I was able to run a half a mile with minimal pain! Its honestly incredible the work that Mike and his colleagues can do! Whether you’re working with Mike, John, or Therese, you will feel welcome and encouraged to get better! It is a beautiful space with great equipment and an absolutely amazing atmosphere! If anything hurts or if you need physical therapy I highly recommend Mike and his team! THEY ARE AWESOME!!! Go! I promise you will not be disappointed!!!

I did a short but quite effective month of PT at NovaCare with Jon Williams. Beautiful space, professional, no gimmick; just solid good service.
I didn’t get the cute green t-​shirt!

Nova Care LPAC was a welcome departure from the plethora of therapy clinics throughout the city. The atmosphere is delightful. Picture this, after a long day of work, you arrive, tired and cranky from sitting in traffic. The gang immediately greets you with an enthusiastic, «Hey (insert name)!» Good tunes playing. Everyone interacting and sharing anecdotes. A quaint, lofty space with top notch equipment (TRX bands, Pilates reformer, etc.).
More important than the atmosphere was the superior quality of care I received. Diagnosed with a herniated lumbar disc and in excruciating pain, a friend referred me to D. Mike Kelly. I was in desperate need of a physical therapist who «got me» in terms of my fanatical workout philosophies. I would not settle for a cookie cutter rehab program.
This was not my first rodeo. Laden with recent workout-​related injuries, other big name clinics in the area gave me a one-​size-​fits-​all approach and, courtesy of my copay, left me $ 40/​session poorer and with little return on my investment.
Mike, however, did not disappoint. A fitness buff himself, he understood that my injury was not only significantly impacting my physical, but also my mental well-​being.
It would be unfair not to give major kudos to Mike’s trusty sidekick, Megan, who is the yin to Mike’s yang. She’s fabulous!
What sets Mike apart from the rest? One, the guy clearly knows his stuff and has the credentials and certifications to prove it. Two, he has this knack for commanding your respect. Confident, but not cocky. Pleasant, but direct. Busy (he treats, manages the clinic, and serves as the house DJ), but attentive. Weekly email check-​ins and pointers from Mike were not uncommon.
With Mike’s direction and support, I am but another of his many success stories. Stronger than ever; back to running and training. Additionally, Mike equipped me with the knowledge to make good training choices to prevent re-​injury.
Drawbacks: Mike’s reputation precedes him. When you’re the best, people seek you out. You may be looking at a wait to get an initial appointment. I will say that Mike went above and beyond to accommodate my scheduling needs.
Nova Care LPAC is the best of the best when it comes to orthopedic rehabilitation in Chicago. Period.