I've been running marathons for eight years. In the last three years, every training season I'd get what I call a "rookie" injury of IT band, knee pain, and shin pain in the left leg. I say "rookie" because this happened in the first year or two of running but then subsided. I was quite frustrated when it started up again. Each year of the past three, I fixed what I thought was the problem, whether "too much too soon" or lack of strength training or lack of flexibility. Finally this year I did everything right. I had a perfect training month where I followed everything to the letter, did strength training three times a week, alternated two pairs of new shoes, and so on. I even had what I thought was perfect running form because I changed that back in 2010 to run on the forefoot/midfoot instead of heel striking, and every year I attend form clinics. But still, out of the blue I had the same injury this summer in the middle of training season. I took a week off to heal, and then I went to see Andrew Gaetano. I explained all of the above, in much more detail, and he listened very carefully to everything I said. What's more, he heard me. Then he diagnosed the problem. He said I was not engaging my glutes or hips because my pelvis was sticking out in the back too much, and that I was using my back muscles to get most of my leg extension, meaning that the area around the knee had extra strain and kept causing me pain. To fix this he showed me how to run with a pelvic tilt, using biofeedback, targeted exercises (and not the usual clamshells), and even a new high-tech running analysis via computer called DorsaVi (I think?) where you run outdoors with sensors and then see an analysis of symmetry/asymmetry. At first it felt weird and I think it slowed me down a bit as I focused on engaging the glutes, which I could feel for the first time during a run. But eventually I got used to it, and I saw him about twice a week as I continued to train for the Marine Corps Marathon, which was yesterday. Not only did I do two 20 milers in training pain free, I completed the marathon under my target time (which was nonetheless slower than usual because it does take time to get used to a new running form after eight years) and at the end f the race, I had no IT band pain or knee pain or shin splints! Instead, my glutes hurt a lot, which meant I was using them. He is the first PT I have seen in all these years who accurately diagnosed the problem and prescribed a solution that successfully prevented this nagging and incredibly frustrating IT/knee/shin pain. Other PTs had given up, saying I probably just had to live with it. If you are willing to try something new and work hard, go see Andrew Gaetano before giving up running. And he practically had to kick me out, saying okay, you're fine now. :-). In other words, they want to fix your problem, not keep you there indefinitely. The place is clean, staff is friendly, and everyone is always in a good mood. read more

Chet W. I am very pleased with the physical therapy program I received at this office. I came there with two goals in mind. I wanted to reduce my chronic lower back pain and return to playing Pickleball in an enjoyable and competitive fashion. Over the preceding two years, I had experienced lower back muscle spasms while playing Pickleball on at least four occasions. So I was discouraged from playing again until my condition improved. Over this time, my back pain was increasing as well, so that I was uncomfortable on a daily basis. The physicians, physical therapist and a chiropractor I visited seemed unable to help me make significant improvements. Fortunately, I was referred to this office where Jenny was my therapist. I explained to Jenny that I would need a comprehensive program because others seemed to be too short and limited to be of help to me now. Immediately, I was impressed with her excellent instruction and knowledge in setting up an effective program for me. I was equally encouraged by her inspiring, friendly way of both challenging and supporting me in each session to do a variety of exercises. Also, Jenny was helpful in teaching me better habits for sitting, exercising, running, motivating myself and so on. With her guidance, I was able to set up an effective home program of doing the exercises she had taught me. Over a period of a couple of months of going to this office once or twice a week and doing exercises at home, I kept making steady improvements. After about two months into this program, I realized that I had traded in my "love handles" for "steel abs" and my self-doubts for a renewed self-confidence. This renewed confidence was in my ability to play sports competitively and to meet other physical challenges without fear of doing any significant harm to myself. And now I am playing Pickleball with good mobility, power and endurance and I am improving each week. In short, I got my life back! read more

This first sentence is really all you need to read: Capital Area PT & Wellness in Malta is where you need to go if you want to get better! I've had terrible reoccurring back pain for the past 5 years. I have been to three different PT offices in the area that have temporarily treated my symptoms, but never cured me. I would feel good while I was being treated, but at home (even with doing my exercises) the pain would return. A few months ago, my back pain returned with a vengeance. I was determined not to waste any more time or money going somewhere that wasn't going to help me long-term. I really needed this pain to go away for good. I was fed up with it and feeling depressed. I dreaded going anywhere I had to walk or be on my feet for long periods of time. Plus, I had to stop running, which was something I loved doing. So, I began researching PTs in my area and reading reviews. That's when I found Capital Area PT. Here, I was under the care of Andrew Gaetano. My first appointment involved a thorough assessment to determine why I was having the pain (something none of the other clinics did) allowing them to create a treatment plan specifically for me. This was not an "okay, you have back pain... do these exercises" type of place, which is what I experienced everywhere else. After about 6 weeks of treatment, I can honestly say that I have not felt this great in a long time! I am back to running with NO PAIN!! I'm walking everywhere and doing everything with NO PAIN!! There are things I have to be mindful of in my everyday life to help keep me pain free, but they teach you this so you can maintain your health moving forward. Also, I do have to say, if you are assigned any one of the other PTs in this office, do not worry. Just read the reviews. You can see they hire nothing but the best! read more

I experience migraine headaches and related neck and shoulder pain, as well as other chronic back pain. I was fortunate to be told of Andrew and Evan from a PA in a physicians office when this office was just opening and have continued in their care. I can't say enough about how knowledgeable and complete care is here. Having been to other PT's as well as chiropractors, I can surely see a big difference. Continued evaluation, teaching and treatment methods along with exercises both in the office as well as prescribed for me at home are standard. There are times one of the therapists barely touch me and can assess that something else is going on somewhere before I even complain of pain or tension or issues with movement. Chronic pain is difficult and limiting, but knowing that when I come here there is relief gets me through. There hasn't been any setting like this. Such personable, caring, professional and friendly staff. It's in that trusting atmosphere I met Tom Ford, Massage Therapist. I did try a massage and knew it would be so beneficial for me to continue with that. He, as well, is both knowledgeable and kind. He is so helpful in assessing what is going on with you, after hearing your concerns and going through a first session as well as collaborating with your PT. He is very tuned in to diagnosing and attending to pain and tension release through massage techniques and also suggests exercises for home. Again, such a kind, wise person who genuinely cares for your well-being! I strongly recommend both Cap Area PT as well as Tom Ford for Massage Therapy, knowing he offers a variety of types of massage. You'll be in a learning, pleasant, positive environment --- read more

I had a great deal of shoulder pain virtually come out of nowhere one morning and I wasn't the only one who was perplexed by this sudden appearance - I first went to an Urgent Care center where I underwent x-rays and was told I had re-broken my clavicle after having suffered a break last year. They sent me to an Orthopedic specialist who told me that was incorrect and I was suffering from a pinched nerve in my neck. They referred me to Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness in Malta and I must admit I wasn't initially thrilled with the idea of several weeks of physical therapy but the entire staff at Capital Area PT showed me that physical therapy can actually be a pleasant experience and more importantly... IT WORKS! After meeting with Jenny, I was finally able to get a correct diagnosis and she immediately set out a plan to fix this situation. Jenny is a miracle worker - a combination of some soft-tissue work, Kinesio tape, exercises and adjustments to my posture and I had some relief by the end of the first week. Fast-forward a couple more weeks and my shoulder is now back to 100% and I'm golfing and playing tennis with no worries! Jenny and the entire staff are down-to-earth, friendly and personable which made the experience truly enjoyable. I highly recommend Jenny and the rest of the staff at Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness for whatever pain comes your way. read more

I will forever be grateful for the stellar service provided by Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness and, specifically, Jen Missenis. The ortho nurse practitioner in the hospital said that I wouldn't regain full use of my arm after having fractured the upper humerus in a fall; but Jen guided me to a restored full range of motion. Because of a bumpy start with a physical therapist who lacked experience and another who changed places of employment, I was worried that I was behind schedule. My first meeting with Jen was such a relief! She dove right in, put me at ease, did what felt like 'triage' on my arm, communicated clearly, and applied her seemingly unlimited arsenal of exercises to bring me back to a place of normalcy. Jen is an exceptional listener and works with her clients to tailor therapy to their needs. She is creative and personable. Ask for her ... you will not regret it! read more

I went to CAPT this summer for a very painful heel issue which Jennifer M. diagnosed as Plantar Fasciitis. She programmatically treated the problem starting with the foot ("Toe Yoga") and progressing through a carefully planned therapy regimen which included teaching the muscles how to compensate for pronation, etc. She also advised me to go to Fleet Feet in Malta to be fitted for Superfeet shoe inserts and to go to Dr. Mindy Lam in Clifton Park to get a night boot to keep the foot sitting correctly during sleep. After about a twelve week program I "graduated" and will continue to do my "homework" therapy as well as check back with Jenny as needed! Thanks, Jenny and Thanks CAPT! read more

If you are looking for a knowledgeable, reliable, kind, and professional physical therapist, look no further! I am forever grateful to Dr. Byers! I remember before starting, I couldn't function without anti-inflammatory medication, and the heat pad was my best friend. Now, they feel like a long lost memory! Dr. Byers always listened to my needs, and adjusted the therapy to allow me to succeed. Through my sessions, I learned so much about how to help my body heal and get stronger. Thank you so much Dr. Byers, thanks to you I an back to running and rowing, and feeling happy again! I owe so much to Dr. Byers and Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness! read more

A very positive experience from beginning to end! Went there following rotator cuff surgery and although arthritis has increased in this same shoulder, they showed me how to build up the strength in my shoulder so that it is usable. Also, everyone there from the front desk to the doctors/therapists were extremely compassionate. There were days in the recovery process where I would go into my appointment feeling very down....but I always felt that I was heard and I ALWAYS left feeling better than when I came in. read more

My very first time at PT and the experience couldn't have a better one. I worked with Evan and Lisa, both displayed an in-depth knowledge of their field with a genuine concern toward the patient. Instructions were clear with benefits explained and though a busy setting at times it is well organized and a most friendly setting. It's a very efficiently run business where everyone works in harmony with one another. I highly recommend this office for anyone needing PT. read more

I just finished a course of therapy to strengthen my left leg and ankle. This was my first time working with this team and they were great. I started working with Megan who left after a few sessions. But, Jenny, who replaced Megan, didn't miss a beat. The plan was totally responsive to the need and I feel great. I highly recommend these folks. Thanks again, Jenny and Megan. Joe E. read more

In the past 5 years I've needed physical therapy 3 times for different problems. I can't say how happy I am with their helping me. Evan Marsh, Andrew Gaetano, and Amanda Cocozzo have worked with me to achieve my rehabilitation. Their entire staff is very friendly and helpful. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone. If you have any needs, call them. I'm sure they can help. read more

Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness has caring, well informed, and attentive staff. I worked with James for months to strengthen my ankle, core, and surrounding muscles groups. I left with the knowledge and motivation to keep reaching for fitness goals. I highly recommend going here for physical therapy. All of the staff is incredible. Ask for James, Andrew or Amanda. read more

Choosing Capital Area Physical Therapy was a great choice for me for my shoulder surgery recovery. I'm so grateful for my physical therapist Kaitlyn Stinson for being so supportive and encouraging, and I saw great progress in my strength and mobility. I am now pain-free and have regained full range of motion. Highly recommend Kaitlyn and the team at CAPT! read more

I cannot say enough about how wonderful Jennifer Missenis, PT, DPT, is. She took the time to give me a comprehensive treatment plan. She worked on strength, balance and pain. I never felt rushed and always felt I was important to her. I highly recommend her. She is compassionate, caring and an all around great physical therapist. read more

I saw Jenny for my ankle and then for a whiplash injury. She was amazing, very patient, & positive. I had seen 2 other PT for my whiplash injury but she was the only one who really listened and personalized my PT care. I would highly recommend her. I also saw Lisa occasionally and she was positive and very knowledgeable as well. read more

Jenny is amazing and I highly recommend her! She was very knowledgeable and I made progress quickly. Jenny gave me a variety of exercises I can choose from to do at home. She suggested I video her doing some of the exercises while she gave all the directions. It was extremely helpful! It was the best PT experience I've had! read more

I worked with Tori Torrisi. She helped me attain a level of no pain. This is after having gone there walking on a cane,due to hip pain. The folks here are great! Tori would not let me leave a session until my pain level was much lower than when I came in. Cant say enough about these folks. Will highly recommend. read more

Excellent therapists. Broke my ankle in January and started therapy the end of February. Jennifer did an excellent job. I went from walking with a walker, to a cane and then able to walk without any assistance. I would highly recommend this place for physical therapy. Staff is friendly and helpful. read more