The Key to Staying Active: Move Better, Feel Better, Live Better
Summer is a season filled with opportunities to move. Whether it’s traveling with family, spending time outdoors, gardening, playing recreational sports, or simply taking longer walks in the warm weather, staying active allows us to participate in the moments that make life meaningful.
But with increased activity often comes increased strain on the body. A sore knee after a long hike, back discomfort while gardening, shoulder pain during a tennis match, or difficulty keeping up with grandchildren can all be signs that your body needs attention. Many people assume these aches and limitations are simply a normal part of aging or being active. In reality, movement challenges don’t have to keep you from doing the things you love.
Physical therapy plays an important role in helping people stay active, healthy, and independent throughout every stage of life. While many people think of physical therapy only after an injury or surgery, it can also help prevent injuries, improve mobility, restore strength, enhance balance, and support long-term function before small issues become larger problems.
Summer activities place unique demands on the body. Gardening often requires bending, lifting, and kneeling. Vacations can mean long hours sitting in a car or airplane followed by days of sightseeing and walking. Recreational activities like golf, pickleball, tennis, and hiking rely on strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. Even everyday activities, such as carrying grandchildren or tackling household projects, can challenge muscles and joints that may not be accustomed to increased activity.
Choose Physical Therapy Early
Many people wait weeks—or even months—before seeking care for pain or movement limitations, hoping symptoms will simply go away on their own. However, research suggests that starting physical therapy early may lead to better outcomes and lower healthcare costs.
Studies have shown that people who begin physical therapy soon after the onset of musculoskeletal pain may be less likely to require advanced imaging, emergency room visits, specialist care, injections, or opioid medications. Early intervention can help address the root cause of a problem before it worsens, supporting recovery and helping people return to the activities they enjoy.
In New York, many patients can access physical therapy directly without a physician referral, making it easier to start care early and begin working toward their goals. Regardless of where you receive care, seeking treatment early may help you avoid unnecessary delays and keep you moving forward.
Physical therapy is designed to treat more than symptoms. Your physical therapist will evaluate how your body moves, identify contributing factors such as strength deficits, mobility restrictions, posture, or movement patterns, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals.
Your treatment plan may include:
- A comprehensive evaluation of strength, mobility, balance, and movement patterns
- Hands-on treatment techniques tailored to your condition and goals
- Personalized exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stability
- Education on posture, body mechanics, and injury prevention strategies
- A home exercise program to help maintain progress and support long-term success
Choosing physical therapy early may help you avoid unnecessary delays in care and keep you moving toward the moments that matter most.
Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better. — More Than a Motto, It’s Our Commitment to You
At MVPT Physical Therapy, “Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better.” is more than a tagline—it reflects our commitment to helping people live healthier, more active lives. Our team partners with patients to create personalized treatment plans that support recovery, improve function, and help them achieve their goals.
Move Better.
Movement is at the center of everything we do. Our clinicians evaluate how your body moves and identify the root causes of pain, weakness, stiffness, and mobility limitations. Through evidence-based care, hands-on treatment, and individualized exercise programs, we help patients improve strength, flexibility, balance, and function so they can move with greater confidence.
Feel Better.
Feeling better means more than addressing symptoms—it means improving your ability to participate in everyday life. Our approach focuses on helping patients recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, prevent future problems, and achieve meaningful outcomes that support long-term health and wellness.
Live Better.
When you move better and feel better, you’re able to do more of what you love. Whether it’s keeping up with family, traveling, gardening, participating in sports, or maintaining independence, our goal is to help patients stay active and engaged in life at every age and stage.
Your Trusted Partner in Physical Therapy Across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Massachusetts
When pain, injury, or movement limitations interfere with your daily life, choosing the right physical therapy provider matters. At MVPT Physical Therapy, our experienced clinicians are dedicated to delivering personalized, evidence-based care designed around your unique goals, lifestyle, and needs.
With convenient locations throughout Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Massachusetts, our team provides expert care for orthopedic injuries, back and neck pain, sports injuries, balance and vestibular disorders, post-surgical rehabilitation, and a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, preparing for surgery, or looking to maintain an active lifestyle, we’re here to help you move better, feel better, and live better.
From your first visit through recovery, you can expect compassionate care, clinical expertise, and a commitment to helping you achieve meaningful outcomes. Through hands-on care, patient education, and personalized exercise programs, we empower patients to take an active role in their recovery and long-term health.
If you’re searching for physical therapy, choose a trusted partner with a proven commitment to personalized care and exceptional patient experiences.
Schedule your evaluation with MVPT Physical Therapy today and take the first step toward moving better, feeling better, and living better.
Riding for Those We Love: Meet the 2026 MVPT Physical Therapy PMC Team
Every year, thousands of cyclists from across the globe gather in Massachusetts for the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC), united by one mission: raising funds for life-saving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
For MVPT Physical Therapy, the PMC is more than a bike ride. It is an opportunity to support patients, families, and communities impacted by cancer while advancing a cause that touches nearly all of us in some way.
As sister organizations under Cypress Health Partners, MVPT Physical Therapy and Bay State Physical Therapy share a common mission: helping people move better, feel better, and live better. Together, our teams are committed to improving the health of the communities we serve both inside and outside the clinic.
For the past nine years, Bay State Physical Therapy has proudly served as the Official Physical Therapy Partner of the Pan-Mass Challenge. Many MVPT team members and leaders have participated alongside their Bay State colleagues, united by a shared commitment to supporting riders, advancing cancer research, and giving back to the communities we serve.
This year, we once again ride with a shared purpose: to honor loved ones, celebrate survivors, and help create a future without cancer.
New Year, Stronger Commitment
For the fifth year, our team is honored to ride alongside our PMC Pedal Partner, Celia Jan. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at just three years old, Celia completed treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2023 and is now a thriving eight-year-old in full remission. Her resilience, strength, and joyful spirit remind us why every mile matters.
Cancer affects nearly all of us in some way. Some of us have lost loved ones. Others have celebrated survivors. Many know someone currently fighting the disease. Through the PMC, we ride for them all.
Last year, our largest riding team ever raised more than $85,000 for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute—our most successful fundraising year to date. In 2026, we are building on that momentum with the goal of raising even more to support research, treatment, and hope for patients and families facing cancer.
Since 1980, the Pan-Mass Challenge has raised more than $1 billion for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with 100% of every rider-raised dollar going directly to cancer research and patient care. We are incredibly proud to be part of this movement and grateful for the patients, families, sponsors, and communities who make it possible.
Thank You to Our Corporate Sponsors
Every year, we are fortunate to have corporate sponsors join our fundraising efforts. This year, we recognize our Platinum Sponsors, Calera Capital and Core Medical Group, and our Gold Sponsors, Alera Group and McGuire Woods, for standing with us in the fight against cancer. Together, with every rider, volunteer, and supporter, we move closer to a world without cancer.
Our 2026 Bay State Physical Therapy Pan-Mass Challenge Riding Team
Below, meet the inspiring members of our 2026 Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Riding Team and learn why they ride.
Steven Windwer, DC, PT – Founder & Executive Chairman, Bay State Physical Therapy
Second-Year PMC Rider
After nearly 35 years of helping patients live healthier lives, Steven Windwer, DC, PT, is returning for his second Pan-Mass Challenge ride. As Founder and Executive Chairman of Bay State Physical Therapy, Steve has long believed in the power of movement, community, and giving back.
His reason for riding is deeply personal. A close friend was recently diagnosed with multiple myeloma, inspiring Steve to join the fight against cancer in a new way.
“I want to be part of a movement that is searching for a cure.”
Throughout training, Steve stays motivated by thinking about his friend and the countless individuals and families impacted by cancer. When he’s not training along the scenic coastline of Newport, Rhode Island, he’s looking forward to the excitement of race day, the support from communities along the course, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the finish line.
Lexi W., PT, DPT – Managing Partner and Physical Therapist at Bay State PT – Braintree & Bay State PT – Boston – Fort Point
Seventh-Year PMC Rider
Lexi is returning for her seventh year riding with the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team. Over the years, the Pan-Mass Challenge has become one of her favorite weekends of the summer—a celebration of hope, resilience, and community.
For Lexi, the cause is deeply personal. As the physical therapist for the team’s longtime Pedal Partner, Celia, she had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the strength and determination of a young girl who battled Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Today, Celia is in remission and continues to inspire everyone around her.
“Celia reminds me every day how strong and determined the human spirit can be.”
Lexi rides for loved ones impacted by cancer and for the hope that research and treatment advancements will create more survivors. This year, she’s especially excited to ride the 50-mile route alongside her dad.
Erin Doherty – Senior Manager, Community & Team Engagement, Cypress Health Partners
Seventh-Year PMC Rider
Nicholas is returning for his fourth year riding with the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team. Since joining Bay State, Nick has had the privilege of worErin is returning for her seventh Pan-Mass Challenge ride after first experiencing the event behind the scenes. As part of Bay State Physical Therapy’s partnership with the PMC, she coordinated volunteers providing stretching and recovery services for riders during race weekend. Witnessing the impact of the event firsthand inspired her to sign up the following year—and she’s been riding ever since.
“Every mile is an opportunity to honor those who are fighting cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and help raise critical funds for the lifesaving research at Dana-Farber. Our biggest inspiration is our Pedal Partner, Celia, whose strength and resilience remind us every day why this ride matters.”
For Erin, the Pan-Mass Challenge is about far more than cycling. She returns each year for the incredible camaraderie of the Bay State Physical Therapy team, the friendships she’s built within the PMC community, and the knowledge that every rider, volunteer, and supporter is making a meaningful difference. When she’s training, you’ll often find her riding along the scenic South Shore through Marshfield, Scituate, Cohasset, and Hull, taking in the ocean views. She’s also the first to laugh about the many “tips” off her bike while learning to clip in—a reminder that every experienced rider starts somewhere.
Erin’s advice to anyone considering the PMC is simple: “It truly is one of the most inspiring and emotional experiences I’ve ever been a part of. You won’t regret it.”
Nicholas R., PT, DPT – Physical Therapist at Bay State Physical Therapy – Boston – Fort Point
Fourth-Year PMC Rider
Nicholas is returning for his fourth year riding with the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team. Since joining Bay State, Nick has had the privilege of working with the team’s Pedal Partner, Celia, whose strength, energy, and joyful spirit continue to inspire every mile he rides.
“Every mile is bigger than me. We train and ride for those who cannot.”
For Nick, the PMC is about much more than cycling. As a physical therapist, he sees the ride as an extension of his work helping people live healthier, more active lives while supporting patients and families affected by cancer.
One of his favorite parts of the PMC is the camaraderie of the Bay State team and the inspiring stories shared throughout race weekend. Of course, not every ride goes according to plan—one memorable year, he and his fiancée accidentally collided just 20 yards from the finish line. Fortunately, they got back up and crossed it together.
Taylor H. – Family & Friend of the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team
Third-Year PMC Rider
Taylor is returning for her third year riding with the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team alongside her fiancé, Nicholas Rajotte, PT, DPT. Her connection to the PMC is deeply personal and rooted in both remembrance and hope.
Taylor rides in memory of her Uncle Tommy, who lost his battle with leukemia at just 22 years old. She is also inspired by the courage of the team’s Pedal Partner, Celia, whose journey reminds riders why every mile matters.
“I ride in memory of my Uncle Tommy, in celebration of survivors like Celia, and in support of everyone whose life has been touched by cancer.”
When training rides become difficult, Taylor reminds herself that the challenge of the ride is nothing compared to the strength of those facing cancer. This year, she’s looking forward to the energy, camaraderie, and shared sense of purpose that make PMC weekend so special.
Thomas R., PT, DPT – Senior Physical Therapist at Bay State Physical Therapy – Stoughton -Washington Street
Third-Year PMC Rider
Thomas is returning for his third year riding with the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Team. His journey with the PMC began when he cheered on a fellow Bay State team member and immediately knew he wanted to be part of something bigger than himself.
Since then, his connection to the cause has grown through personal experiences with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the many individuals whose lives have been touched by cancer.
“This ride is my chance to give back and ride for those who have lost their battle with cancer, those fighting their battle, and those in future need.”
For Thomas, health is life’s greatest gift. He especially looks forward to hearing the inspiring stories shared throughout PMC weekend and riding past the signs honoring Pedal Partners who remind riders why every mile matters.
Lauren H., PT, DPT – Physical Therapist at Bay State Physical Therapy – Raynham
Third-Year PMC Rider
Lauren is returning for her third year riding in the Pan-Mass Challenge. Her connection to the cause is shaped by both loss and hope—a close friend is a stage 4 cancer survivor, while her grandfather and a close family friend both lost their battles with cancer.
“Many people battling cancer don’t have the opportunity to take part in something like this, so I feel grateful to be able to ride in support of them.”
For Lauren, every mile serves as a reminder of why the cause matters and the impact that cancer research can have on patients and families. She loves being outdoors while training and is especially motivated by the incredible support from communities lining the course each year.
After navigating a few unexpected dirt roads during training rides over the years, Lauren has learned that sometimes the detours make the journey even more memorable.
Danica C., PT, DPT – Physical Therapist at Bay State Physical Therapy – Cambridge – Central Square
First-Year PMC Rider
For Danica (“Dani”), taking on the Pan-Mass Challenge is about embracing new challenges while supporting a cause that impacts so many lives. A first-time rider, Dani was drawn to the PMC as an opportunity to challenge herself both physically and mentally while beginning her journey into cycling.
“I want to challenge myself, and this will never even be close to as hard as patients with cancer have to fight every day to survive and overcome the many obstacles they face.”
As she trains for her 85-mile ride, Dani has embraced the highs and lows of cycling—from scenic rides along the Minuteman Trail and coffee shop stops to the occasional learning experience, including an unforgettable first long ride mishap. She’s especially excited for her dad to travel from Hawaii to cheer her on at the finish line.
Dani is proud to represent Bay State Physical Therapy and show people what it’s all about: doing hard things, moving our bodies, and supporting causes greater than ourselves.
Join the Cause to End Cancer
At MVPT Physical Therapy, we believe that movement has the power to heal, strengthen communities, and change lives. Participating in the Pan-Mass Challenge is one of the many ways we strive to live our mission beyond the walls of our clinics.
If you feel inspired by these stories and would like to support the fight against cancer, we invite you to consider making a donation to our shared PMC efforts. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps fund research, treatment, and hope for patients and families facing cancer.
Together, we can help create a future without cancer.
Prepare for Your Summer Adventures
Summer is the perfect time to get outside, stay active, and cross a few items off your bucket list. Whether you’re golfing, hiking, biking, traveling, gardening, or spending more time with family and friends, your body performs best when it’s strong, mobile, and ready for movement.
At MVPT Physical Therapy, we know that staying active isn’t just about performance—it’s about enjoying the moments that matter most. That’s why this month’s Exercises of the Month focus on mobility, flexibility, and recovery to help you move well all summer long.
These exercises were selected by Lexi W. PT, DPT, Managing Partner and Physical Therapist at Bay State PT – Braintree & Bay State PT – Boston – Fort Point, and a seventh-year member of the Bay State Physical Therapy PMC Riding Team.
Perform these exercises in a safe and comfortable setting. If you experience pain or discomfort, consult your physical therapist.
1. Wrist Mobility
Why: Reduce tension in forearm muscles and improve wrist mobility
How:
- Start on your hands and knees, with your hands under your shoulders, fingers wide and facing forward
- Keeping your elbows straight. Shift your body forward and then backwards towards your heels 10 times.
- Return to starting position, gently rock side to side 10 times
- Next, rotate your hands so that your fingers face your legs keeping palms facing down.
- Gently rock forward and back 10 times.
2. Cat/Cow Stretch
Why: To improve spinal mobility
How:
- Start on your hands and knees
- Inhale and arch your chest forward, lift your head
- Exhale and round your spine and tuck your chin down
- Repeat 10 times
3. Thread the Needle + Thoracic Rotation
Why: To improve spinal mobility
How:
- Start on your hands and knees with hands underneath your shoulder and knees under hips
- With control, reach your left arm underneath your body as far as your body will allow with your head following your arm
- Then, reach opposite twisting your trunk with your head following your arm as far as it will allow
4. Adductor Rock Back
Why: To improve hip mobility and prime your muscles for movement
How:
- Begin on your hands and knees with one leg stretched out to the side
- Slowly push your hips back towards your heels to feel a stretch in your groin and inner thighs
- For a stretch through your hamstring, gently rotate your toes up to the sky as you sit back onto your heels
- Pause briefly and then return to the starting position
- Perform 10 rock backs on each side
5. Downward Dog
Why: Improve overall mobility, increased shoulder stability, and core engagement
How:
- Begin on your hands and knees
- Straighten your legs pressing your chest down towards your thighs
- Hold for a few seconds
- Then pedal your legs by lifting one heel at a time for about 20 seconds
6. World’s Greatest Stretch
Why: Improve overall mobility including spine, shoulders, and hips to prime body for movement
How:
- From the downward dog position, bring your right foot to the outside of your right hand.
- You can either keep your opposite knee lifted to be in a lunge position, or allow your left knee to rest on the ground.
- Reach your right arm up, rotating your body to look up at the sky, hold for a few seconds.
- Return to starting position. Complete 10 times on each side.
7. Hamstring Stretch
Why: Targets hamstring flexibility
How:
- Lie on your back with a strap around the foot of your affected leg.
- Pull the knee towards your chest, then straighten the leg up towards the ceiling until you feel a stretch in the back of the thigh.
- Ease off with your hands to relax this movement.
- Repeat for 3 repetitions of a 30-second hold.
8. Iliotibial Band (IT Band) Stretch
Why: Improve hip mobility
How:
- Take a stretching band and put it around your foot.
- Pull on the band and bring your leg out in front of you until you feel a stretch through the hamstring.
- Then, allow your leg to cross your midline. You should feel a stretch through the side of the hip and ITB.
- Repeat for 3 repetitions of a 30-second hold.
9. Hip Flexor Stretch
Why: Targets hip flexor flexibility
How:
- Lie on your back with your leg stretched dangling over the edge of the bed.
- Lie close to this side.
- Loop a long belt around the front of your ankle and back up over your shoulder, holding the other end in your hands on your abdomen.
- Pull the end of the band down towards your pelvis. This will increase the bend in your knee.
- Hold this position when you feel a stretch down the front of your thigh and hip.
- Ease off with your hands to relax this movement.
- Repeat for 3 repetitions of a 30-second hold.
Movement is one of the best investments you can make in your health. By prioritizing mobility, recovery, and strength, you’ll be ready for whatever adventures summer brings.
If pain or movement limitations are keeping you from doing the activities you love, schedule an evaluation with MVPT Physical Therapy. Our team is here to help you move better, feel better, and live better.
Hit the Green This Summer: Tips to Keep Your Golf Game on Par
Summer means longer days, warmer weather, and more time on the golf course. But whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just dusting off the clubs after a long winter, golf places unique demands on the body. From repetitive swings to long walks on uneven terrain, the game requires strength, mobility, balance, and flexibility.
It’s no surprise that golf-related injuries are common. In fact, research suggests that most golfers will experience a golf-related injury at some point in their lives. Common areas of concern include the back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees.
The good news? Many golf injuries are preventable.
Five Tips to Keep You on Par
Warm Up Before You Tee Off
Just as professional athletes warm up before competition, golfers should prepare their bodies before stepping onto the first tee. Spend 10 to 15 minutes performing light aerobic activity and dynamic stretches to increase blood flow and prepare your muscles and joints for the rotational demands of the golf swing.
Don’t Ignore Aches and Pains
A little soreness after a round may be expected, but persistent pain shouldn’t be ignored. Addressing discomfort early can help prevent minor issues from becoming more significant injuries that limit your time on the course.
Choosing physical therapy early may help improve mobility, address movement limitations, and keep you playing the game you love.
Walk When You Can
Walking the course not only keeps your body moving, but it can also improve endurance and cardiovascular health. A typical 18-hole round can add up to five or more miles of walking—making golf a great way to stay active.
Invest in Proper Equipment
Your clubs aren’t the only equipment that matter. Properly fitted clubs and supportive footwear can improve performance, comfort, and stability while reducing stress on your body.
Ask a Professional
Just as many golfers work with a golf pro to improve their swing, working with a physical therapist can help improve the way your body moves. Physical therapists understand the physical demands of golf and can help improve mobility, strength, balance, and flexibility to support performance and reduce injury risk.
Expert Insight from a TPI-Certified Physical Therapist
John Judd, PT, DPT, CSCS
Titleist Performance Institute Certified, Level 1
Physical Therapist and Managing Partner at Bay State Physical Therapy – West Warwick (RI)
“As a golfer myself, I can’t stress enough the importance of warming up before your first tee shot. Many golfers go straight from sitting in the car to swinging a club, but golf is an athletic activity that places significant demands on the body. Taking a few minutes to prepare your muscles and joints can make a big difference in both performance and injury prevention.”
“Most importantly, don’t ignore pain. If you’re experiencing discomfort before, during, or after a round, seek care early. Physical therapists understand the physical demands of golf and can help improve strength, mobility, and stability so you can continue enjoying the game for years to come.”
Whether you’re chasing a lower handicap or simply enjoying time outdoors with friends and family, taking care of your body is one of the best investments you can make in your game.
Schedule an evaluation with your local MVPT Physical Therapy clinic and stay on course this golf season.
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