Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
8 Years
experience
Your Trusted Physical Therapy Partner in Chicago
River North Physical Therapy was founded on the principle of delivering personalized, evidence-based care that prioritizes individualized treatment plans over generic rehabilitation. Our team of licensed professionals specializes in Pilates-based rehabilitation, functional movement therapy, and advanced techniques like dry needling and laser therapy to address musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and pre/post-natal conditions. With a focus on patient education and holistic wellness, we empower clients to move pain-free and thrive in their daily lives.

Our commitment to direct access since 2018 allows patients to begin treatment without a physician referral, while our in-network status with major insurers ensures accessibility. As a women-owned private practice, we emphasize community engagement and one-on-one care, distinguishing ourselves from corporate clinics through tailored treatment and long-term patient relationships.
Services
Physical Therapy Pilates Rehabilitation Dry Needling Laser Therapy Sports Injuries TMJ Treatment Pelvic Floor Therapy Post-Natal Rehab Functional Movement Screening Vestibular Therapy
Details
  • Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
  • We offer personalized treatment plans developed by licensed physical therapists with specialized certifications.
  • Our Pilates-based rehabilitation integrates movement science for long-term pain relief.
  • Direct access since 2018 allows immediate treatment without physician referrals.
  • In-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare for patient convenience.
  • Community-focused care emphasizing one-on-one attention over high-volume corporate settings.
What people say
Unparalleled expertise Personalized treatment plans Effective chronic pain relief Exceptional patient care Knowledgeable therapists
Services
Physical Therapy
Our physical therapy services combine manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, and evidence-based modalities to address musculoskeletal conditions. Tailored treatment plans target pain reduction, improved mobility, and functional restoration for patients recovering from injuries or surgeries. Specialized approaches include gait training, posture correction, and scar tissue management to enhance recovery outcomes.
Pilates Rehabilitation
Pilates-based rehabilitation focuses on core strength, posture improvement, and functional movement patterns. This method integrates mind-body awareness with controlled exercises to alleviate chronic pain, enhance flexibility, and prevent future injuries through biomechanically sound movement principles.
Dry Needling
Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into trigger points to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow. This technique effectively treats chronic pain conditions, sports injuries, and movement dysfunctions by targeting neuromuscular imbalances and promoting natural healing processes.
Laser Therapy
Class IV laser therapy uses specific light wavelengths to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation. This non-invasive treatment accelerates tissue healing, alleviates pain, and improves circulation for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and soft tissue injuries through targeted photonic energy application.
Sports Injuries
Specialized sports rehabilitation programs address acute injuries and chronic conditions affecting athletes. Our approach combines strength training, movement analysis, and sport-specific drills to restore performance capabilities while implementing preventive strategies for long-term athletic health and injury avoidance.
People
Stephanie Owens-Burkhart
Founder / Owner
Doctor of Physical Therapy with certifications in Pilates, dry needling, and craniosacral therapy. Specializes in women's health and pre/post-natal rehabilitation while emphasizing holistic treatment approaches.
Helen Owens
Physical Therapist
Orthopedic specialist with 45+ years of private practice experience. Focuses on manual therapy, TMJ disorders, and sacroiliac joint pain treatment while maintaining academic affiliations with leading PT programs.
Eric Eickholtz
Physical Therapist
Certified dry needling therapist specializing in treating high-level athletes and chronic pain conditions. Expertise includes headache management, shoulder rehabilitation, and evidence-based manual therapy techniques.
Josh Banuelos
Physical Therapist
Former BMX racer with 18 years of competitive experience. Focuses on post-operative rehabilitation and chronic pain management through personalized treatment plans incorporating manual therapy and neuromuscular re-education.
Kate Strozak
Certified Pilates Instructor
Movement specialist with a Master's in Applied Neuroscience. Combines Pilates, functional training, and myofascial release techniques to improve movement efficiency and achieve client-specific wellness goals.
Questions
Do I need a referral to start physical therapy?
No referral is required in Illinois due to direct access laws, though Medicare patients require a prescription.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable workout attire that allows movement and access to the affected area.
Are Pilates sessions included in physical therapy?
Yes, Pilates-based rehabilitation is integrated into treatment plans for core strengthening and posture improvement.
What payment options are available?
We accept major insurance plans and offer cash payment options with transparent pricing.
How long do treatment sessions last?
Initial evaluations take 60 minutes, with follow-up sessions typically lasting 60-90 minutes.
What specialties does your team offer?
Specialties include sports injuries, pelvic floor therapy, TMJ treatment, dry needling, and pre/post-natal rehabilitation.