My Winter 2020 to Spring 2021 Athletico-Evanston (909 Davis) OVERALL REVIEW: Front Desk: Melanie, is the Guardian and Cog of a well-working team. I wish every business was welcomed and treated with poise, professional courtesy, juggling patients, phones, scheduling and billing inquires such as this Realm Keeper, Melanie. She is a jewel that shines, strength and light! Front Desk: Kiley is one perky perfectionist, handling all her duties with smiles and humor to spare! PT Assistants: "Cello" Shawn, Lovie, Andrew, Jackson, AB (Abraham), Lindsey are career professionals working while schooling. They offer patients exercise assistance and help keep the facilities well-groomed and Covid protected. I appreciate each and every one of them! PT Professional: Sean (Hsuan Wei) is a highly educated, almost Zen Like Master with his skill levels of applying corrective repairing and relieving methods to achieve his desired goals for his patients! PT Professional: Janelle is an anchor of gentle wisdom, patience and positivity. She has a genuine heart for patients to improve, strengthen, setting goals and overall, live well! PT Professional: John is like a power horse, "Nascar" perfecting his patients to reshape, rebuilt into their top performance, again! PT/OT Professional/Management: Lastly, the beloved EMILY WEHRWEIN. When you come for your OT with Emily, you just checked into Disneyland's FIVE STAR TREATMENT. You enjoy every amenity, endless fun, burst of sunshine and energy, just oozing out of Ms. Emily! On some days, I just never want to leave! Needless-to-say, I recommend and applaud the ALL HANDS ON DECK efforts, achievements, goals, skills, techniques, treatments APPLIED meticulously, thoroughly, and thoughtfully. What a hard-working team of loving individuals. I feel loved, like family, so real, so warm. I've been truly touched, helped, encouraged, revitalized, and renewed. I certainly pray for God's Heavenly Showering of ALL GOOD upon these great professionals, each and every one ~ Amen and Amen! read more

They were the best understanding to my pain and needs to heal I was very happy with the guys I had discharged from knee therapy

The staff are very welcoming and professional. Kieran is an excellent listener and really helped eliminate the pain and limp in my walking. Highly recommend. read more

I spent 4 weeks in 2021 in physical therapy. Day 1 I was very informative and dedicated to setting up expectations. I did 3 days a week for 4 weeks. I was never late and I worked hard and it was not easy. I used bands, rollers, weights, balls, arm cycling, coupling, rolling, manipulations (all very painful) and hot compresses and when I got home I did additional exercise on my own. The days that I had off were my recuperating days and I needed them more than anything. I had one main physical therapist who saw me through the whole process but I also had several physical assistants who were overseeing my workouts, changing my exercises for me, and counted my reps. I am happy to report that I am all better and returned back to my health. The facility is extremely clean and they take covid very seriously. Temp is being taken at check in and you immediately have to wash your hands before entering the rehabilitation facility. read more

The manager and lead therapist was very good although the structure of how they see patients is not balanced at all. They see multiple patients at once which does not allow for you to get quality care. Having come out of a second surgery I want one on one PT. Seek out a non corporate PT site if your insurance allows for it, otherwise you will get mediocre care from good PT's. read more

Yikes! Very disappointing. Corporate business model. Initial Eval with licensed PT followed by the remainder of appointment with minimally trained "Assistent" counting reps. I expected more. 20 min max with the Practitioner then the handoff to an unlicensed pretty face. I can go to a gym and get more experienced trainer for a fraction of the price. read more

Athletico is amazing. As a dancer, there is always something out of place, in pain, or broken on my body. They work with a lot of professional dancers (River North, Giordano, Joffrey, etc.) and they really know what they are doing. My PT was Sarah, and she really understands the dancer's body (or in my case, the dancer's foot). She not only helped me with my specific issue, but also with ballet placement issues I was having as a result of my injury and on overall core strengthening. The staff is really courteous and helpful, and the PT aides really know what they're doing. Like other reviewers have mentioned, they offer free screenings for injuries, which don't require a doctor's referral, which is nice for when I do something stupid in dance class and need some exercises to fix it, but not a full 'script for PT. I've also been to the Athletico in St. Charles, and they are just as great over there. You really can't go wrong getting your PT here. They also have massages :) read more

I'm a few weeks into PT with Janelle. She has put a lot of thought and effort my treatment plan and her skills and dedication to her job are very apparent. I know I am in good hands here. read more

I have been to this Athletico 3 different times now for three different therapies. It's really a fantastic office with top-notch therapists. The front desk staff is terrific, especially Janelle, who goes out of her way to accomodate your schedule. My most recent therapy was with Melissa Goldberg, and I cannot praise her highly enough. She was very friendly, very professional, yet warm with a great sense of humor. She really knows her stuff and had me moving again in no time! read more

While searching for a physical therapist, I looked up all the PTs my insurance covered on Yelp. Just based on reviews alone, I had to go to Athletico. The screening, like Drennen M. said, is completely free, and the process was painless (only stress-wise) and easy. I came in for a hamstring injury. After some brief Q&A, he gave me a deep tissue massage and showed me some exercises that I could do to help alleviate the pain. Then he put me on some ice while he went to go print out a list of the exercises he'd just taught me so I wouldn't forget them. Did I mention this was all completely free? He said he'd call me back to follow up on, and that if I needed to, I could schedule another screening with one physical therapists who could better help me out. The best part of my experience? On my way out of the building, I got free ice cream! Today was a good day. read more

This was my 3rd round of physical therapy at Athletico over the years, but this one was a doozy. I came in right after a total knee replacement with a long road of recovery ahead of me. I spent 10 weeks at Athletico (2-3x/week) and graduated Tuesday - yep, I even have the t-shirt to prove it. My PT, Brian So, is a fantastic therapist and an all-around great guy. He knows exactly how far he can push each patient and while he strives to challenge his patients, he makes sure you are never in pain. Brian came up with a few innovative ways to maximize my recovery and even attended my 8-week post-op visit with my surgeon. Who does that?!? Brian does because he is always learning and genuinely cares about his patients. 12 weeks post-surgery and I have maxed out extension and flexion on the prosthetic and have regained most of the strength in my surgical leg. Amazing. A few other tidbits: I never walked into Athletico without being greeted by name - epic when you do the math on how many patients they have! My aide of choice is a rockstar. Mike D. is not only a phenomenal PT aide and strength/conditioning coach, he's damn funny. I made sure to book ahead and know Mike's schedule, so I could work with him. His easy manner and extensive knowledge made even the most repetitive exercises tolerable. Yes, Mike, even the sled. 12 weeks ago, I honestly could not have imagined my recovery would be at this point. While I put in the work, I couldn't have done it without Brian and Mike working with me and encouraging me every step of the way. Athletico is a huge corporation these days, but this location makes you feel like family from start to finish. read more

I came here after a bout of the wrenched back due to running in slightly-too-big-but-oh-so-good-looking boots. These guys are fantastic! I went in for the free screening and told the nice physical therapist what was wrong. He gave me some stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles and prevent a similar happening next time I'm wearing those boots ('cos I will wear them again), said he'd call in a week, and sent me on my way. Did I mention it was FREE? The facility itself is open and full of nice windows and on its way to being even bigger - they're expanding. I almost wish I was injured just so that I could come here. Almost. Just to clarify - the first screening is free. Said screening can be all you need - it was all I needed. After that, though, you need a referral from a doctor and all that jazz and insurance would be very useful. read more

I've been getting treatment for about five weeks now and these guys are GREAT!! My PT is Jen and she kicks my a** but in a good way you know. I would recommend this place to anyone who needs therapy. I've seen three therapists and the massage therapist - they're all great. It is expensive so be sure your insurance covers your treatment! And yes, you need a prescription from your doctor. read more

Athletico is top notch with knowledgable trainers, easy appointments, and is super clean. I came here for 6 months after a pregnancy related injury and was thrilled with my care from Lisa, JD and the rest of the staff. I've also been taking my 18 month son to Alisha for almost a month and have seen huge gains. He loves going to see her and lights up when i tell him we are on our way to miss Alisha. I will continue to come here every time I get injured!! read more

I would highly recommend Lisa and Evanston Athletico for physical therapy. I was diagnosed with hamstring tendonitis and the orthopedic surgeon was suggesting an experimental and painful procedure. Lisa figured out it was muscle imbalance and treated it as such. I was out running more than I had for a couple years. Thanks, Lisa! read more

How is this for responsiveness and customer service? I emailed them for an appointment with a doctors referral for therapy on lower back pain. No word for two days. Okay maybe it's the email. I call them and guess what. You can't talk to a real person. Leave a message they request. I do so and mention I need the treatment ASAP. It is now 3 days later and no response How good can they be when they can't even return a potential clients requests to get started? Maybe it should be 0 stars instead of 1. read more

The entire staff at Athletico has been amazing and extremely accommodating​ to my busy schedule. They all care about each patient they serve and it is clear they all love what they do. Ernie Koh has been a great PT and is always listening to concerns and asking questions. I highly recommend Ernie and this location! read more

Great location staffed with great people. They worked with me through two total knee replacements. Brianna Brackin is outstanding. I'm forever grateful for her kindness and motivation to help me meet my goals. My knees feel great. read more

I went to Athletico Evanston for two years to recover from two separate hip surgeries. I had an extremely positive experience and would VERY HIGHLY recommend Lisa and her team to anyone seeking physical therapy. She is the best in her field, and she ensured I had a personalized recovery plan week over week. Professional and caring staff, convenient appointments, and responsiveness to all of my questions and concerns. THANK YOU for your hard work! read more

Ruptured my Achilles tendon playing basketball and had reconstructive surgery in May of 2016. The folks at Athletico Evanston took care of me through my rehab. I had told them initially that I wanted to be treated like a serious athlete (even though I am not one) and we worked together to set achievable goals that I feel confident will put me back on the court and at my best given my trajectory and continued progress at home. My Primary PT, Brian So, is a fantastic therapist. He knows exactly how far he can push each patient and while he strives to challenge his patients, he checks in frequently to make sure you're comfortable and don't have any questions. 5 months post-surgery and I have maxed out extension and flexion on my surgical leg and have made great strides in overall strength/stability. I'm amazed. When I wasn't able to see Brian, I worked with Lisa, Kate, Joanna and Andrea. They all were great as well. Too many wonderful things I could say to list here. While I loved working with Brian I would have been so lucky to have spent more time with any of the other PTs I worked with while I was there. In general: I never walked into Athletico without being greeted by name! The aides who help out are all-round rock stars. Mike D. is not only a phenomenal PT aide but he keeps things light and encouraging throughout. I am not a Cubs fan, but honestly, I hope they win just so Lauren the aide is happy. She did an awesome job running around like a crazy person between all of us patients. Never felt as though I wasn't getting the attention I deserved no matter who I was working with. Place is kept in great condition and very clean. Would recommend this location and my PTs to anyone. read more

Joanna was fantastic. Fun to talk to and a very smart and attentive physical therapist!

Ixshell the Massage therapist here is excellent. I am an LMT from Colorado and I need deep therapeutic work. She worked out all of my issues. Highly recommend. Barbara C read more

I don't know where to start - Athletico has truly been an incredible experience for me. If you ever find yourself in need of physical therapy, they have showed to be the absolute best in the area go here. Everybody here knows what they're doing and it's absolutely amazing. My experience has been amazing - all of my therapists were fun and more importantly, enjoyable to talk to, during long sessions. But this aside, getting me better was always the top priority. Also the assistant aids were amazing as well, they were so helpful in keeping up with my busy schedule which I am extremely grateful for. I've been fortunate to work with almost all of the therapists and can safely say I haven't been let down once. I couldn't of asked for a better 6 weeks. Every pain I had is now gone and I am substantially much stronger than I was. I'll never forget my first evaluation with Katy, my first appointment with Andrea, Emily, and Joanna, and my first annoyance of a schedule change with Kristina. From the front desk to the treatment room - it was all phenomenal. Although I didn't have much contact with the manager, Lisa, the few times I got to speak with her were helpful and a great pleasure. Overall, everyone here was genuinely kindhearted, upbeat, and on top of everything - making what would normally be a dreary process one worth looking forward to. Thank you!! read more

Athletico is a joke! Stay away at all cost! All they have going for them is a catchy name, but they offer useless recommendations and even worse customer service. When we confronted their staff and said that what they suggested was common knowledge, and did not help the issue, they simply didn't care! Not only did we waste time on sessions, we are supposed to waste our money on useless service?? After speaking with location manager and corporate billing supervisor (manager is not returning my calls) they are all refusing to discount the bill, claiming that everything they have done was right. Well, it's far from it, we are unhappy with your service on many levels and we will make sure that anyone we know never uses your service to waste their time and money!! read more

John is great! He is precise in his therapy work and challenging but realistic. I've had great results with him. The support staff are professional and so helpful too!! read more

I had some issues with my knee, and was looking for a physical therapist that was in my health insurance network. Alot of places were out people's homes, and then I saw that Athletico was listed. I called them and made an appointment right away. They helped me with proper therapy and strength training. The facility is new and clean. The staff is very friendly and professional. The facility is in a newer office building in downtown Evanston that is right in between the Davis Metra and CTA stations. read more

They provided an initial quote of $100 for one session. They ultimately charged over $300 per session and I had no idea until receipt of the bill for 5 sessions exceeding $1500. Now when I try to resolve my outstanding bill, they do not return my phone calls. read more

Everyone here has. Even incredible in treatment, manner, knowledge, effectiveness and kindness. Go.

I was very apprehensive about physical therapy for my back and neck pain, but chose Athletico's Evanston location based on its stellar reviews. I am so thankful that I did! I actually look forward to my biweekly sessions. The facility is bright, cheerful, convenient (located in between both a Metra and a purple line station), and full of all sorts of equipment. Even on their busiest of days, I feel that I am getting one-on-one attention. The therapist I have worked with is very friendly and makes the hour fly by. I also appreciate that they work around my teaching schedule. Other PT offices in the area were unable and/or unwilling to do this. I would (and have) recommend them to anyone. I can't say enough good things about this facility. Four weeks later, I am getting stronger, but more importantly, I am almost pain-free. read more

Went to Athletico for physical therapy for a broken ankle. Saw a physical therapist there named Andrea Mueller. My ankle break was a complete one, diagonal, with shards and fragments- a real good one. When I first went there, ankle was still hugely swollen, and literally unmovable. 2 months later I am done with treatment, walking w/o a limp, almost complete recovery. Big thumbs up for Andrea! She did a great job for me. read more

I am so incredibly impressed with this place! my physical therapist, Travis, is amazing and even came with me to my doctor's appointment follow up. top notch PTs, they're open late and early for appointments that you can squeeze in before or after work. No complaints! read more

To add to my poor experience, Lisa. P, manager of the Athletico - Evanston, Davis St. location, commented on my review more then a week ago saying she would reach out based on my posting, and I haven't heard from her or anyone since. I think this reflects so poorly on their business culture and empathy toward patient experience. Please save yourself the headache and find somewhere else to go for PT. I'm currently going to a privately owned practice and my experience is much better. My PT Danica texts me on days I don't see her asking how I am. She's constantly thinking about my personal situation and how to make me feel better faster while taking into consideration the healing time. I went from such a chronic miserable situation while I was at Athletico to horseback riding and camping last weekend all because I chose to switch PT facilities. Food for thought... If you've been at Athletico for awhile and haven't gotten better or relapsed maybe it's not you maybe it's Athletico and the experience they're providing you. read more

I want to write about Brian at Athletico in Evanston. He was able to help me when other therapists could not. He was personable, attentive but he worked me hard to get me back in shape. Brian is the best. read more

Athletico-Evanston gets my highest recommendation. The staff is warm and welcoming, the location is convenient, and the physical therapists who work there are passionate about the work they do. I especially recommend Ivan K. Ivan is knowledgeable, skilled, confident, great at explaining things in simple terms, and patient. He was very attentive to the ups and downs of my recovery, and he made sure that no session was too difficult or too easy. Instead, he designed programs that were perfectly challenging so that I could make the quickest gains. I know that my successful recovery from Achilles surgery is largely due to his effective care. read more

Lisa is amazing. I originally went to Lisa when I was a student at Northwestern. When I had to go back to PT later this year, even though I now live in Chicago, it was a no brainer. The Physical Therapists and even PT aids are very knowledgeable. They always take time to explain things in an easy to understand manner and are more than happy to answer your questions. The hours are good and the location is convenient. Everyone is so friendly. I highly recommend this place! read more

i cannot say enjoy great things about this place! i was nervous to go to a "big box" PT office after going to 1-1 care for a long time, but i actually really like it. the facility is clean. the PTs and assistants are kind and caring, and the location off the davis stop could not be more convenient! read more

Unfortunately, I was not pleased with the service I received from Athletico when I visited them recently for occupational therapy after a broken wrist. I experienced several problems related to scheduling. The front desk seemed disorganized. I made one appointment over the phone, and when I showed up, they did not have a record of it (I still had the voicemail to prove that the appointment had been made). Another time, I was supposed to have an appointment at 12:30 one day, and they called to reschedule it at 9:00 that morning. There was another issue that is too complicated to explain, but I'm willing to dismiss that one as a misunderstanding. They were going through a transition to a new occupational therapist, and apologized for the confusion. Each of these things on its own wouldn't been too bad, but added together, they amounted to too many headaches and too much wasted time for me to continue going there. read more