A PATIENT-CENTERED APPROACH By Christine S. Maxwell, photo by Dan Epstein
D
r. Raffaele Lagonigro, PT, has a vision for his physical therapy practice. He wants to provide quality physical therapy for patients in the Passaic Valley area. In 2018, his dream came true when he established AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine in Little Falls. With a thriving practice, Lagonigro and two other full-time therapists treat a variety of ailments for all ages. AIM’s patients range in age from high school students to senior citizens. Although each age group may have unique needs, everyone’s treatment contains a common purpose. “From pain and injury, getting patients back to a healthy, active lifestyle is our goal,” states Lagonigro. Many of the injuries patients present involve the spine, neck, back, shoulders, and knees. Studentathletes frequently have these injuries. For the elderly population, the goal may be to improve balance and strength so that these individuals can perform their daily tasks. Recently, AIM has partnered with a women’s health therapist for pelvic and obstetric physical therapy issues. Lagonigro believes that his physical therapy practice has a unique approach to patient care. After evaluating the patient, the physical therapists establish an individualized care plan with oneon-one care. AIM therapists typically have lower caseloads than other practices and spend more time with patients. “We look for an approach that has the best outcomes,” states Lagonigro. “Often, we follow a multi-modal approach to treatment that includes hands-on manual treatment and proscribed strength and exercise programs.” AIM ’s approach also includes making an extremely comfortable, inviting environment for the patients, one in which the patient feels protected with the best quality care. Helping people understand the recovery process is paramount, and frequently that involves letting the patients heal emotionally and physically. “We spend time easing people’s fears. We understand the road to recovery and guide them along the way,” says Lagonigro. “We believe that our positive, comfortable, and welcoming approach to recovery helps people get better faster,” adds Lagonigro.
AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Dr. Raffaele Lagonigro
44 Main Street, Little Falls | 973-860-0550 www.aimorthopedics.com
Spring 2022
Little Falls Magazine
13
