About ActiveCare Physical Therapy®
The Best Physical Therapists in NYC
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Our therapists are licensed in New York State and active members in the American Physical Therapy Association. We have advanced training in joint mobilization and myofascial release techniques.
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We are dedicated practitioners with a passion for the profession and a comprehensive, holistic approach to treatment and healing. We treat each patient as an individual and treat the whole person, with a plan of care designed to meet the patient’s set goals for health, functionality and a return to work, tasks and activities. We network with a team of physicians, chiropractors, acupuncturists and massage therapists in order to provide guidance to other modalities that may be effective in the patients’ care. We also offer superior Telehealth services for physical therapy.
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Physical Therapist and owner Dr. Karena Wu PT, DPT, OCS is a graduate of the Program in Physical Therapy at Columbia University and is affiliated with several healthcare organizations in New York City. She is certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Kinesio Taping Practitioner and Pilates Instructor, and uses SpiderTech Taping. She is also a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Graston Technique® Specialist and Pilates Instructor. She holds LSVT BIG, FMS and SFMA Level 1 certifications as well. Dr. Wu also specializes in vertigo and temporomandibular joint disorders.
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ActiveCare is primarily an out-of-network facility. We accept all insurance with out-of-network benefits and file for most major insurance plans. We work with all prospective patients to create workable payment plans regardless of insurance coverage.
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ActiveCare accepts Medicare, No-Fault and Workers Compensation patients depending on schedule availability.
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ActiveCare’s administrators provide seamless and efficient concierge-style client service to all of our patients. And the whole ActiveCare team makes sure your time with us is a beneficial, productive and enjoyable experience.
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www.ActiveCarePhysicalTherapy.com
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* We Accept Medicare | No Fault | Workers Comp *
Category Archives: Active Care New Physical Therapist
Meet Dr. Kiernan Monaco, PT, DPT
Dr. Kiernan Monaco is a highly skilled and compassionate Doctor of Physical Therapy dedicated to helping individuals restore movement, reduce pain, and return to the activities they love. Known for her patient-centered approach and commitment to clinical excellence, she combines evidence-based treatment with genuine care and empathy.
A proud Long Island, NY native, Dr. Monaco earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a Minor in Strength and Conditioning from the University of Delaware. During her undergraduate years, she developed a strong foundation in human movement and injury prevention, while also working as a certified cycle instructor, blending her love for fitness and teaching.
Her passion for physical therapy expanded globally when she traveled to New Zealand to study the international impact of the profession. She later earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Long Island University in Brooklyn, where she continued to grow as a clinician and advocate for holistic, functional rehabilitation.
Dr. Monaco is deeply committed to lifelong learning and advancing rehabilitation care. She participated in a global health service trip to Ghana, where she provided hands-on therapy for children with special needs and gained invaluable insight into community-based care. Her interest in innovative treatment approaches also led her to conduct research on virtual reality in pediatric physical therapy, which was accepted for presentation at the APTA New York 2025 Conference.
Her treatment philosophy is rooted in treating the whole person, not just the injury. Kiernan focuses on long-term wellness, functional movement, and empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery and health journey
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kiernan Monaco, call or email ActiveCare Physical Therapy today.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™
29 West 38th Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 777-4374
Email: staff@bestptnyc.com
Website: https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com
How ActiveCare Physical Therapy Uses Advanced Techniques for Recovery
ActiveCare Physical Therapy, led by Karena Wu PT in New York City, is known for blending expert clinical care with innovative techniques to accelerate recovery, reduce pain, and enhance mobility. As a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Karena Wu and her team leverage the latest in manual therapy, movement science, and technology to deliver customized rehabilitation solutions.
In this article, we explore the advanced techniques ActiveCare Physical Therapy™ uses to ensure patients receive world-class care, whether recovering from injury, managing chronic conditions, or improving performance.
1. Orthopedic Manual Therapy
At the core of ActiveCare’s approach is advanced manual therapy. Karena Wu is fellowship-trained through the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT), a prestigious credential that reflects rigorous training in joint mobilization, soft tissue techniques, and clinical reasoning.
This allows the team to:
- Quickly identify biomechanical dysfunctions
- Target the root cause of pain—not just the symptoms
- Use hands-on techniques to restore motion and reduce inflammation
Manual therapy is often combined with corrective exercise to ensure long-term relief and functional improvement.
2. Pilates-Based Rehabilitation
ActiveCare integrates Pilates into physical therapy to strengthen core musculature, improve body awareness, and support spine health. This approach is ideal for treating conditions like:
- Low back pain
- Pelvic instability
- Postural imbalances
- Post-operative rehabilitation
Patients benefit from individualized Pilates sessions that focus on form, breath control, and controlled resistance—often using equipment such as the Reformer or Cadillac.
3. Neuromuscular Re-Education
A key component of recovery involves retraining the brain-body connection. The therapists at ActiveCare use neuromuscular re-education to correct faulty movement patterns and enhance muscle coordination.
This technique is especially beneficial for patients with:
• Chronic pain
• Muscle imbalances (such as Upper Cross Syndrome)
• Post-stroke deficits
• Sports-related movement dysfunctions
Through targeted cueing and progressive exercises, patients learn to move efficiently and reduce compensatory habits that can lead to further injury.
4. Myofascial Decompression (Cupping)
ActiveCare utilizes myofascial decompression, or cupping therapy, as part of soft tissue treatment. Unlike traditional massage, this technique lifts the tissue away from the body using negative pressure, helping to:
- Reduce muscle adhesions
- Improve circulation
- Increase tissue hydration and glide
Cupping is commonly used in conjunction with active movement and stretching to maximize results.
5. Kinesiology Taping
Kinesiology tape is applied to support joints and muscles while still allowing for full range of motion. At ActiveCare, taping is customized based on the patient’s needs—whether it’s unloading a tendon, reducing swelling, or promoting postural awareness.
6. Fit3D Body Scanning for Baseline & Progress Tracking
To precisely measure changes in body composition, posture, and alignment, ActiveCare uses the Fit3D Body Scanner. This technology captures a 360° view of the body, offering:
- Objective postural assessments
- Accurate tracking of muscle mass, symmetry, and weight distribution
- Baseline data to guide treatment goals
Patients receive progress reports that visually reinforce their improvements, boosting motivation and compliance.
7. Acupuncture & Dry Needling
When appropriate, ActiveCare offers acupuncture and dry needling to reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and stimulate healing. These techniques are particularly effective for:
• Trigger points
• Sciatica
• Joint stiffness
• Chronic inflammation
8. Telehealth & Hybrid Care Options
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™ also offers telehealth sessions for patients who need virtual access to care. These sessions include guided exercises, postural assessments, ergonomic advice, and progression of home programs. For many patients, telehealth serves as an excellent complement to in-person visits.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™ Advanced Techniques for Recovery: Conclusion
At ActiveCare Physical Therapy™, advanced recovery isn’t just about what tools are used—it’s about how they’re used, when they’re applied, and how well they are tailored to each individual. The combination of evidence-based manual therapy, Pilates, movement science, and cutting-edge technology ensures that every patient receives the most effective and efficient path to recovery.
Get Started with Expert Care
Whether you’re dealing with post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, or chronic pain, the team at ActiveCare Physical Therapy™ is ready to help you heal better, faster, and with long-term results.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™
29 West 38th Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 777-4374
Email: staff@bestptnyc.com
Website: https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com
ActiveCare Physical Therapy NYC welcomes Dr. Kelly Picciurro as our newest PT!
Dr. Kelly Picciurro was born in New York and raised in New Jersey. In 2013, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland. After completing her undergraduate studies, she worked at ActiveCare Physical Therapy for one year as a Therapy Aide, where her passion for the profession grew.
In 2017, Kelly earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree, graduating with honors in both clinical excellence and community service from Rutgers University. While studying physical therapy, she gained experience with disabled children and athletes who had various orthopedic conditions in both outpatient and hospital settings.
Kelly understands that medical education is an ongoing process and, as such, continues to supplement her university education with courses in manual therapy from Maitland Australian Approach, Graston technique and myofascial decompression. She has taken several advanced courses in these fields and is eager to continue to enhance her expertise. Kelly is passionate about the physical therapy field. She prides herself on her approach to holistic and personalized treatment for every individual patient.
In Kelly’s free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking and exercising. Her goals are to pursue a specialist certification in orthopedics and to become a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist via Maitland Australian Physiotherapy Seminars.
Dr. Karena Wu and ActiveCare Physical Therapy opens its first international branch in the bustling city of Mumbai, India
Dr. Karena Wu and ActiveCare Physical Therapy opens its first international branch in the bustling city of Mumbai, India. There is a need for high quality physio services in India and Dr. Wu recognized this. She is opening her first clinic outside of the USA with her partner, Dr. Kinjal Shah, who has worked in the NYC office. Dr. Shah will be the help oversee and manage the clinic.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy Private Limited will be located in the upscale neighborhood of Prabhadevi, across from the world famous Siddhivinayak Temple. Opening ceremony will be on Sunday, April 2, 2017. The clinic will see its first patients on the following Monday.
To view the press release click the invite below.
Welcome New Physical Therapist Kristen Rubio!
Dr. Kristen Rubio is a native of Orange County, California and received a Bachelor of Science in International Studies from the University of California in Irvine. She recently received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Long Island University in Brooklyn. Kristen is a certified Pilates Instructor through the Kane School of Core Integration in NYC, and used to get referrals from ActiveCare Physical Therapy prior to her completion of PT school. She brings this specialty background into her physical therapy practice.
Kristen advocates a holistic approach to patient care by addressing the body as a whole structure that is interconnected to the presenting dysfunctions or injuries. She believes posture, strength, flexibility, coordination and body awareness are all key points of focus in returning to full function.
She is dedicated to providing excellent care with focus on what is important to the patient. She believes the top priority is helping to achieve individualized patient goals.
Kristen is actively continuing her education in manual therapy through the Maitland Australian Approach and the Institute of Physical Arts.
In her free time, Kristen is a Teacher Trainer at the Kane School of Core Integration. She also enjoys traveling, aromatherapy, yoga, art and wine tasting.
Please join us in welcoming Kristen to the ActiveCare PT team!
Welcome New ActiveCare Physical Therapy Staff!
We are very excited to welcome three new staff members to the ActiveCare Physical Therapy team! Our winning team of Physical Therapists, PT Aides and team members are committed to providing our patients with the best care possible. Keep reading to learn more:
Monique Dupree
Physical Therapist, DPT
Monique Dupree is a New Jersey native who earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, NJ and received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ.
Monique believes in using a holistic approach when treating patients by integrating postural education and core exercise with selective strengthening. She utilizes carefully-selected exercises to not only target the area being treated but also to enhance overall movement and quality of life for her patients.
Prior to joining ActiveCare, Monique worked in a clinic that specialized in diagnoses of the lower back and neck, integrating functional movement to prepare patients for safe discharge.
Monique is licensed in New York and New Jersey and is looking forward to taking courses to further develop her manual skills in the areas of sports taping and peripheral joint and spinal mobilizations.
In her free time, Monique enjoys spending time in the city, dining and taking in the arts.
Magdalena Wisniewski
Physical Therapy Aide
Magdalena comes from a small city in Poland and has always enjoyed athletics, particularly Taekwondo. She obtained a First Dan certification in Taekwondo and participated in tournaments in Ankara, Turkey and Yeoseo, South Korea. Magda also earned scholarships to study sports management and physical education in Poland and Greece, earning a Master’s degree along with certifications in athletics instruction and classical massage.
Magda joined the Polish army as a platoon commander and went to Afghanistan as a member of the Civil Military Cooperation for NATO and ISAF (International Security Assistance Force.) When she returned to Poland she participated in international counterterrorism training.
After serving in the army, Magda decided to move to the US, and earned a fitness certificate at Hunter College. She loves the field of physical education and helping others change their lives for the better. She enjoys using her skills to help ActiveCare’s patients and plans to study to become a physical therapist.
In her spare time, Magda enjoys volunteering at Heavenly Angels Animal Rescue in Ozone Park, Queens.
Jasmine Abraham
Front Desk Receptionist
Jasmine Abraham is a native New Yorker currently residing in Queens. She graduated with a BA in psychology from St. John’s University. Throughout her undergraduate career, Jasmine worked hands-on with patients in clinical settings, and found her passion for the field of medicine. Patients began to inspire her in every aspect of her life.
Jasmine brings that passion to ActiveCare, utilizing her knowledge and skills to provide the best care possible for all of our patients. She is committed to excellence and attention to detail in patient services and administration.
Jasmine is currently obtaining her Master’s in public administration, with a specialization in health policy, at CUNY Baruch. In her spare time, Jasmine loves enjoying the company of her friends and family, following L.A. Lakers basketball, and reading articles on current medical research. She also loves animals, especially her 3-year old dog, a Coton de Tulear named Champagne.
Visit our website at www.activecarephysicaltherapy.com or call 212-777-4374 for more info or to schedule an appointment.
ActiveCare PT, NYC’s Best Physical Therapists, Welcomes DPT Carolyn Yates
Welcome to DPT Carolyn Yates
Carolyn Yates earned her doctorate of physical therapy at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Before that, she graduated magnum cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Lipscomb University, Tennessee. Carolyn is licensed in New York and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Carolyn has worked in physical therapy clinics since 2009 and has developed an excellent bank of therapeutic exercises to assist her patients in returning to their prior levels of function. She has treated a diverse group of patients with conditions ranging from post-operative recovery from rotator cuff and ACL reconstruction surgeries to low back pain and even cervicogenic headaches.
Carolyn prefers a hands-on approach and is advancing her knowledge and skills in manual therapy through the Maitland-Australian Physiotherapy course series. She is dedicated to her patients’ success and to their return to pain-free life. Discharging patients is always bittersweet: Carolyn hates saying goodbye, but is always thrilled to have helped patients to meet their goals.
Carolyn was born and raised in northern California and moved to NYC in September of 2013. She is an avid runner. She ran D1 cross-country and track as an undergrad, and now is a member of two NYC running groups. She was thrilled to run in the 2014 Boston marathon and hopes to continue qualifying and returning to Boston every year.
We are excited to welcome Carolyn to the ActiveCare Physical Therapy team!
ActiveCare PT, NYC’s best Physical Therapists Welcomes our newest PT Aide: Clare Antonioli
A Big Welcome to our PT aide Clare Antonioli
Clare Antonioli is a born and bred Montanan now living in Brooklyn. She graduated from the University of Montana in 2012 with a double major in Wildlife Biology and Dance. Clare moved halfway across the U.S. to pursue her dream of becoming a professional dancer. She is currently taking classes and auditioning for contemporary companies. During her time here, Clare plans to get certification to teach Pilates. While dancing and teaching Pilates are her more immediate goals, Clare hopes to one day go back to school for Physical Therapy. In her other life, Clare is a self-proclaimed bird nerd and loves bird watching and studying ornithology. Her other passions are travel, good food, and wine. Clare is thrilled to be a member of the ActiveCare team, striving to bring the best care to our patients.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy, PC
29 West 38th Street
Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
