Welcome to Free Body Physical Therapy!
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
Our clinic of Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL is here to help navigate the Coronavirus pandemic and it is important to ensure the safety of our patients. Below are the measures we are taking to protect our patients. If you have any questions or would like additional advice, we are here to help. Do not hesitate to reach out to me. We are all in this together. Learn More: https://freebodypt.wpengine.com/covid19
Dr. Marc Gregory Guillen
PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Free Body Physical Therapy is owned and operated by Dr. Marc Gregory Guillen, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT. After receiving a doctorate in physical therapy and working at several PT clinics along the west coast, Dr. Guillen completed a physical therapy fellowship program in Manual Therapy that less than 1% of physical therapists in the U.S. have completed. This expertise in Manual Therapy provides hands-on knowledge to help patients reach their physical therapy goals. Dr. Guillen offers a close one-on-one relationship with patients where his goal is to educate, empower and maximize recovery in as few visits as possible.
Common conditions that Dr. Guillen treats include back pain, neck and shoulder pain, knee and ankle injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, arthritis, chronic pain conditions, sports injuries, and much more. Free Body Physical Therapy accepts most insurance, Medicare, worker’s comp and self-pay patients. Dr. Guillen is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Marc Gregory Guillen, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Fellow, American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists
Board Certified, Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy Made Personal
Free Body Physical Therapy is a neighborhood physical therapy practice nestled at the border of Wicker Park and Humboldt Park, serving patients from many surrounding neighborhoods including Ukrainian Village, Logan Square, Bucktown and West Town.
We support full body care and treatment, putting your health, daily activities, and physical goals into focus. You’ll receive personal care and attention at each appointment, and education specific to your needs to support your continued health post-therapy. By understanding your body’s unique design, physical therapy can provide treatment equal to or more effective than surgery and injections, with your healing beginning immediately.
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO/EPO, Humana, Aetna, MedRisk, Corvel, Medicare, Worker’s Comp, Self-Pay.
Please contact us if your health insurance is not listed here or to inquire about your benefits.
Sports Rehabilitation
As an athlete, few things can be more devastating than having to spend time on the sidelines while rehabbing an injury. However, for many athletes each year, this is an unfortunate reality. At Free Body Physical Therapy, we know how eager you may be to get back to competing with your teammates and coaches. That is why we offer treatment for all of the most common sports injuries an athlete can find themselves suffering from.
Sports Injuries Treated
Every sport can tax an athlete’s body in unique ways. That is why there are so many sports injuries an athlete can potentially endure. Fortunately, no matter what the injury may be, our team will be there to help. We’ll be able to diagnose the severity of your injury before moving forward with creating the treatment plan that is right for you. Examples of some of the most common sports injuries treated here at our facility include the following:
- Sprains and strains.
- Overuse injuries.
- Dislocations and fractures.
- Tendonitis.
- Back and neck injuries.
- Joint problems.
Preventing Injuries
There are numerous ways a person can work towards avoiding sports injuries. By playing an active role in this process, you can stay with your team longer and continue working towards the goals you’ve spent countless hours engaging in training and preparation. The best part is that prevention methods can be done by any athlete competing in any sport. To avoid injuries, we recommend doing the below:
- Cross-train your body so no one singular muscle group becomes overused.
- Maintain a healthy diet and body weight.
- Always take time to warm-up before a game or practice.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear proper equipment such as cleats, helmets, and joint pads.
- Utilize the proper mechanics for your sport.
The Benefits Of Physical Therapy For Sports Rehab
When prevention methods are not enough to stop a sports injury, physical therapy is the next step to take. By scheduling sessions with our team, you’ll increase the chances of making a full recovery in a short amount of time. Our staff is composed of experts that will teach you to perform the therapeutic stretches and exercises needed to get you back in the game. The benefits of utilizing this form of sports rehab include:
- Improved athletic output.
- Regained strength.
- Elimination of pain.
- Quick recovery time.
- Reduced likelihood of surgery is required for treatment.
- Increased flexibility and range of motion.
Contact Us
When you need sports rehab, don’t settle for subpar care. Contact our team at Free Body Physical Therapy today so you can get back to the sport you love!
Recent Blog Posts From Our Clinic Of Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
Rehabilitation Following Meniscus Surgery
How Can Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL Help You?
Have you recently undergone meniscus surgery and are in search of a Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL? Our team at Free Body Physical Therapy is here to assist you. Contact us to learn more today!
A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries and leads to a lot of pain and discomfort. The meniscus is a piece of cushion in the knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. A meniscus tear can occur by simply making a sudden pivot. This injury is common in both contact sports such as football and basketball as well as non-contact sports that involve a lot of running and jumping such as volleyball and soccer. Older athletes are much more susceptible to a meniscus tear because the meniscus weakens with age.
Symptoms
A meniscus tear is not only painful but can feel very debilitating. If you are experiencing knee pain these are symptoms that might let you know it is a meniscus tear.
- A popping sensation
- Swelling or Stiffness
- Pain in the knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening your knee
- The feeling of your knee giving way
- Feeling of your knee locking up
Causes
Unfortunately most times a meniscus tear is unavoidable. They are most common in athletes and very active individuals that put a lot of wear and tear on their knees. The tear occurs as a result of an aggressive pivot or turn. Additionally, kneeling, deep squatting, or lifting something heavy can also lead to a meniscus tear.
Athletes are put at the highest risk for this injury especially older ones. While they are at the highest risk people that don’t perform in a sport also experience meniscus tears. One outlying factor that can also put someone at a higher risk is obesity. Whatever the cause may be, our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can help you determine the best course of action moving forward to ensure a healthy recovery.
Treatment
The treatment of a meniscus tear is dependent on the size and location of the tear. If a tear occurs in an area with good blood flow it may be able to heal on its own. If a tear occurs in another area of the knee that doesn’t have a good blood flow the recovery time could be a lot longer. That being said many meniscus tears do require surgery however that is not always the case. Some key treatment methods for a meniscus tear include:
- Rest- it is important to limit physical activity and refrain from putting weight on it
- Ice- icing the knee will help reduce swelling and pain. It is recommended that this is done for 15 to 20 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2 to 3 days.
- Compression- compressing the knee can help ease pain, this can be done with an elastic bandage
- Elevate your knee
- Take anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil, Allieve, or Motrin
- Use stretching and strengthening exercises
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
For many people that experience a meniscus tear surgery is the only option for eliminating pain. The recovery time and process are different for everyone. Rehabilitation can be a key factor in making sure that the knee heals properly. Free Body Physical Therapy has the best Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can that provide physical therapy both before and after surgery. At Free Body Physical Therapy our team of doctors know that every body is different which is why they create a plan specified for you. Following your evaluation, they will create a program catered towards you and your injury so that you can get back on your feet!
The Benefits of Hiking
We all know that regular cardiovascular exercise is good for us, but many of us cannot seem to make it to the gym. How about ditching the treadmill and spending time in nature? Hiking has been shown not only to be great cardio but can also benefit your mental health. Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL at Free Body Physical Therapy recommends hiking as a great form of exercise.
Physical Health Benefits of Hiking
Hiking carries all of the benefits of cardiovascular exercises such as improving your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of developing heart disease, and helping to control your weight. Hiking can also help keep up your bone density because it is a weight-bearing exercise.
Unlike standard cardio such as walking on a treadmill, hiking covers some uneven terrain, helping to improve your balance and strengthen your lower body and core muscles. Many doctors and health professionals, such as our physical therapist in Chicago at Free Body Physical Therapy have been recommending hiking in recent years because of the wonderful benefits it has for the body and mind.
Mental Health Benefits of Hiking
Exercise has the potential to increase mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. Spending time outdoors in nature can also do wonderful things for your mental health. Going for a hike gives you time to unplug from technology, as well as taking your mind off of the stresses of daily life.
Hiking is an activity that combines the benefits of exercise with the benefits of nature to help boost your mood and reduce the negative effects on your mental health, which is why our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL sees hiking as an amazing form of exercise.
Hiking Safety Tips
Before hitting the trails, make sure to keep these safety measures in mind! Start off your hiking journey slowly. You may be eager to hit the long and tough trails, but as a beginner, it is important to keep your ability in mind. You can always work up to a tougher hiking route, but treating an injury can keep you from hiking all together! If an injury does occur, Free Body PT’s Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can help you get back to hiking in no time.
Suggestions From Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
It can be dangerous to hike alone, especially at the beginning. You may be on an unfamiliar or secluded trail, and it is best not to risk being stranded. Having a friend or family member hike with you can help you feel safer, and give you some company on your hike! Come prepared for your hike. You should familiarize yourself with the route you will be taking, as well as packing your bag correctly. Wear sunscreen and bring lots of water to make sure you stay hydrated!
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
If you have suffered an unfortunate injury during one of your hiking trips, don’t hesitate to seek treatment right away. Our team at Free Body Physical Therapy is here to help you recover from your pain so you can get back out on the trail. If you or someone you know needs physical therapy following your hiking injury, contact us today!
What Are The Most Common Foot Ailments?
How Can Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL Help You?
Regardless of your level of activity or age, you likely spend a good amount of the day on your feet. In fact, the average American takes almost 4000 steps a day. For this reason, foot injuries or ailments are very common, especially for those who live a more active lifestyle or have a job that requires them to spend a lot of time on their feet. If you are experiencing foot pain and are seeking Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL, Free Body Physical Therapy would be glad to help. Our community of doctors and specialists are best prepared to help you kick your foot problems.
Common Foot Issues
There are several conditions that are quite common and arise in people who live both active and sedentary lifestyles. The following are some examples of such conditions:
- Athlete’s Foot
- Bunions
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Ingrown Toenails
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Blisters
Causes of Common Foot Issues
Athlete’s foot is a fungus that is normally contracted in a warm, wet area such as a gym shower or pool where people tend to be barefoot. Bunions are caused by wearing tight or narrow shoes, putting pressure on the toes. Family history also contributes to bunion development, as does being female due to the prevalence of wearing tight shoes. An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail starts to grow into the nail groove, often caused by wearing tight-fitting shoes.
Ingrown toenails can also be caused by trimming your toenails too short, trauma to the feet from running, and family history. Interestingly enough, plantar fasciitis doesn’t have a clear-cut cause. However, there are several risk factors such as being obese, having tight calve muscles, having a high arch, and being a runner. Looking for expert foot care to treat these ailments? Free Body PT offers Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL that can help you!
Symptoms of the Most Common Foot Issues
Athlete’s Foot
- Itching
- Cracking
- Blistering
- Tends to start between fourth and fifth toes
Bunions
- Pump on side of the foot
- Tenderness of big toe
- Callus or corn below the big toe
- Difficulty moving the big toe
- Pain when putting pressure on the big toe
Ingrown Toenails
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Drainage from toenail
Plantar Fasciitis
- Pain in the heel
- Swelling
- More pain with activity/placing pressure on the heel
Looking for Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL?
If you are seeking treatment for a foot ailment and are looking for Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL, Free Body Physical Therapy is here for you! Our talented team of doctors have seen it all, and have the skills to restore your feet to full health. Although some of these ailments do not require physical therapy, recognizing the symptoms can play a huge role in ensuring your treatment is optimized. Contact us today to set up an appointment!
Welcome to Free Body Physical Therapy!
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
Our clinic of Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL is here to help navigate the Coronavirus pandemic and it is important to ensure the safety of our patients. Below are the measures we are taking to protect our patients. If you have any questions or would like additional advice, we are here to help. Do not hesitate to reach out to me. We are all in this together. Learn More: https://freebodypt.wpengine.com/covid19
Dr. Marc Gregory Guillen
PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Free Body Physical Therapy is owned and operated by Dr. Marc Gregory Guillen, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT. After receiving a doctorate in physical therapy and working at several PT clinics along the west coast, Dr. Guillen completed a physical therapy fellowship program in Manual Therapy that less than 1% of physical therapists in the U.S. have completed. This expertise in Manual Therapy provides hands-on knowledge to help patients reach their physical therapy goals. Dr. Guillen offers a close one-on-one relationship with patients where his goal is to educate, empower and maximize recovery in as few visits as possible.
Common conditions that Dr. Guillen treats include back pain, neck and shoulder pain, knee and ankle injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, arthritis, chronic pain conditions, sports injuries, and much more. Free Body Physical Therapy accepts most insurance, Medicare, worker’s comp and self-pay patients. Dr. Guillen is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Marc Gregory Guillen, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Fellow, American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists
Board Certified, Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy Made Personal
Free Body Physical Therapy is a neighborhood physical therapy practice nestled at the border of Wicker Park and Humboldt Park, serving patients from many surrounding neighborhoods including Ukrainian Village, Logan Square, Bucktown and West Town.
We support full body care and treatment, putting your health, daily activities, and physical goals into focus. You’ll receive personal care and attention at each appointment, and education specific to your needs to support your continued health post-therapy. By understanding your body’s unique design, physical therapy can provide treatment equal to or more effective than surgery and injections, with your healing beginning immediately.
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO/EPO, Humana, Aetna, MedRisk, Corvel, Medicare, Worker’s Comp, Self-Pay.
Please contact us if your health insurance is not listed here or to inquire about your benefits.
Sports Rehabilitation
As an athlete, few things can be more devastating than having to spend time on the sidelines while rehabbing an injury. However, for many athletes each year, this is an unfortunate reality. At Free Body Physical Therapy, we know how eager you may be to get back to competing with your teammates and coaches. That is why we offer treatment for all of the most common sports injuries an athlete can find themselves suffering from.
Sports Injuries Treated
Every sport can tax an athlete’s body in unique ways. That is why there are so many sports injuries an athlete can potentially endure. Fortunately, no matter what the injury may be, our team will be there to help. We’ll be able to diagnose the severity of your injury before moving forward with creating the treatment plan that is right for you. Examples of some of the most common sports injuries treated here at our facility include the following:
- Sprains and strains.
- Overuse injuries.
- Dislocations and fractures.
- Tendonitis.
- Back and neck injuries.
- Joint problems.
Preventing Injuries
There are numerous ways a person can work towards avoiding sports injuries. By playing an active role in this process, you can stay with your team longer and continue working towards the goals you’ve spent countless hours engaging in training and preparation. The best part is that prevention methods can be done by any athlete competing in any sport. To avoid injuries, we recommend doing the below:
- Cross-train your body so no one singular muscle group becomes overused.
- Maintain a healthy diet and body weight.
- Always take time to warm-up before a game or practice.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear proper equipment such as cleats, helmets, and joint pads.
- Utilize the proper mechanics for your sport.
The Benefits Of Physical Therapy For Sports Rehab
When prevention methods are not enough to stop a sports injury, physical therapy is the next step to take. By scheduling sessions with our team, you’ll increase the chances of making a full recovery in a short amount of time. Our staff is composed of experts that will teach you to perform the therapeutic stretches and exercises needed to get you back in the game. The benefits of utilizing this form of sports rehab include:
- Improved athletic output.
- Regained strength.
- Elimination of pain.
- Quick recovery time.
- Reduced likelihood of surgery is required for treatment.
- Increased flexibility and range of motion.
Contact Us
When you need sports rehab, don’t settle for subpar care. Contact our team at Free Body Physical Therapy today so you can get back to the sport you love!
Recent Blog Posts From Our Clinic Of Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
Rehabilitation Following Meniscus Surgery
How Can Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL Help You?
Have you recently undergone meniscus surgery and are in search of a Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL? Our team at Free Body Physical Therapy is here to assist you. Contact us to learn more today!
A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries and leads to a lot of pain and discomfort. The meniscus is a piece of cushion in the knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. A meniscus tear can occur by simply making a sudden pivot. This injury is common in both contact sports such as football and basketball as well as non-contact sports that involve a lot of running and jumping such as volleyball and soccer. Older athletes are much more susceptible to a meniscus tear because the meniscus weakens with age.
Symptoms
A meniscus tear is not only painful but can feel very debilitating. If you are experiencing knee pain these are symptoms that might let you know it is a meniscus tear.
- A popping sensation
- Swelling or Stiffness
- Pain in the knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening your knee
- The feeling of your knee giving way
- Feeling of your knee locking up
Causes
Unfortunately most times a meniscus tear is unavoidable. They are most common in athletes and very active individuals that put a lot of wear and tear on their knees. The tear occurs as a result of an aggressive pivot or turn. Additionally, kneeling, deep squatting, or lifting something heavy can also lead to a meniscus tear.
Athletes are put at the highest risk for this injury especially older ones. While they are at the highest risk people that don’t perform in a sport also experience meniscus tears. One outlying factor that can also put someone at a higher risk is obesity. Whatever the cause may be, our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can help you determine the best course of action moving forward to ensure a healthy recovery.
Treatment
The treatment of a meniscus tear is dependent on the size and location of the tear. If a tear occurs in an area with good blood flow it may be able to heal on its own. If a tear occurs in another area of the knee that doesn’t have a good blood flow the recovery time could be a lot longer. That being said many meniscus tears do require surgery however that is not always the case. Some key treatment methods for a meniscus tear include:
- Rest- it is important to limit physical activity and refrain from putting weight on it
- Ice- icing the knee will help reduce swelling and pain. It is recommended that this is done for 15 to 20 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2 to 3 days.
- Compression- compressing the knee can help ease pain, this can be done with an elastic bandage
- Elevate your knee
- Take anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil, Allieve, or Motrin
- Use stretching and strengthening exercises
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
For many people that experience a meniscus tear surgery is the only option for eliminating pain. The recovery time and process are different for everyone. Rehabilitation can be a key factor in making sure that the knee heals properly. Free Body Physical Therapy has the best Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can that provide physical therapy both before and after surgery. At Free Body Physical Therapy our team of doctors know that every body is different which is why they create a plan specified for you. Following your evaluation, they will create a program catered towards you and your injury so that you can get back on your feet!
The Benefits of Hiking
We all know that regular cardiovascular exercise is good for us, but many of us cannot seem to make it to the gym. How about ditching the treadmill and spending time in nature? Hiking has been shown not only to be great cardio but can also benefit your mental health. Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL at Free Body Physical Therapy recommends hiking as a great form of exercise.
Physical Health Benefits of Hiking
Hiking carries all of the benefits of cardiovascular exercises such as improving your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of developing heart disease, and helping to control your weight. Hiking can also help keep up your bone density because it is a weight-bearing exercise.
Unlike standard cardio such as walking on a treadmill, hiking covers some uneven terrain, helping to improve your balance and strengthen your lower body and core muscles. Many doctors and health professionals, such as our physical therapist in Chicago at Free Body Physical Therapy have been recommending hiking in recent years because of the wonderful benefits it has for the body and mind.
Mental Health Benefits of Hiking
Exercise has the potential to increase mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. Spending time outdoors in nature can also do wonderful things for your mental health. Going for a hike gives you time to unplug from technology, as well as taking your mind off of the stresses of daily life.
Hiking is an activity that combines the benefits of exercise with the benefits of nature to help boost your mood and reduce the negative effects on your mental health, which is why our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL sees hiking as an amazing form of exercise.
Hiking Safety Tips
Before hitting the trails, make sure to keep these safety measures in mind! Start off your hiking journey slowly. You may be eager to hit the long and tough trails, but as a beginner, it is important to keep your ability in mind. You can always work up to a tougher hiking route, but treating an injury can keep you from hiking all together! If an injury does occur, Free Body PT’s Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL can help you get back to hiking in no time.
Suggestions From Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
It can be dangerous to hike alone, especially at the beginning. You may be on an unfamiliar or secluded trail, and it is best not to risk being stranded. Having a friend or family member hike with you can help you feel safer, and give you some company on your hike! Come prepared for your hike. You should familiarize yourself with the route you will be taking, as well as packing your bag correctly. Wear sunscreen and bring lots of water to make sure you stay hydrated!
Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL
If you have suffered an unfortunate injury during one of your hiking trips, don’t hesitate to seek treatment right away. Our team at Free Body Physical Therapy is here to help you recover from your pain so you can get back out on the trail. If you or someone you know needs physical therapy following your hiking injury, contact us today!
What Are The Most Common Foot Ailments?
How Can Our Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL Help You?
Regardless of your level of activity or age, you likely spend a good amount of the day on your feet. In fact, the average American takes almost 4000 steps a day. For this reason, foot injuries or ailments are very common, especially for those who live a more active lifestyle or have a job that requires them to spend a lot of time on their feet. If you are experiencing foot pain and are seeking Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL, Free Body Physical Therapy would be glad to help. Our community of doctors and specialists are best prepared to help you kick your foot problems.
Common Foot Issues
There are several conditions that are quite common and arise in people who live both active and sedentary lifestyles. The following are some examples of such conditions:
- Athlete’s Foot
- Bunions
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Ingrown Toenails
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Blisters
Causes of Common Foot Issues
Athlete’s foot is a fungus that is normally contracted in a warm, wet area such as a gym shower or pool where people tend to be barefoot. Bunions are caused by wearing tight or narrow shoes, putting pressure on the toes. Family history also contributes to bunion development, as does being female due to the prevalence of wearing tight shoes. An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail starts to grow into the nail groove, often caused by wearing tight-fitting shoes.
Ingrown toenails can also be caused by trimming your toenails too short, trauma to the feet from running, and family history. Interestingly enough, plantar fasciitis doesn’t have a clear-cut cause. However, there are several risk factors such as being obese, having tight calve muscles, having a high arch, and being a runner. Looking for expert foot care to treat these ailments? Free Body PT offers Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL that can help you!
Symptoms of the Most Common Foot Issues
Athlete’s Foot
- Itching
- Cracking
- Blistering
- Tends to start between fourth and fifth toes
Bunions
- Pump on side of the foot
- Tenderness of big toe
- Callus or corn below the big toe
- Difficulty moving the big toe
- Pain when putting pressure on the big toe
Ingrown Toenails
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Drainage from toenail
Plantar Fasciitis
- Pain in the heel
- Swelling
- More pain with activity/placing pressure on the heel
Looking for Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL?
If you are seeking treatment for a foot ailment and are looking for Physical Therapy in Cicero, IL, Free Body Physical Therapy is here for you! Our talented team of doctors have seen it all, and have the skills to restore your feet to full health. Although some of these ailments do not require physical therapy, recognizing the symptoms can play a huge role in ensuring your treatment is optimized. Contact us today to set up an appointment!