Physical Therapy Close to Home

By Lloyd Garrison

Mike Mangini demonstrates
TrueStretch, one of the specialize therapy machines found at Geer Rehab.

Geer Village in Canaan is well known for its two nursing homes, adult day care center and a spacious assisted living facility with its adjoining YMCA. Although it comes as a surprise to many, Geer also offers a small, but well-appointed rehabilitation center with some of the latest high-tech therapeutic exercise equipment. Its relative anonymity is understandable. No sign announces it from Route 7, nor from the Geer drive. And, according to Director Michael Mangini, “we just don’t have time to market.” These detractions don’t keep clients from finding them. Aside from having the latest equipment, Geer Rehab is run by the only Board Certified physical therapist in Litchfield County. Mr. Mangini’s background includes19 years as a physical therapist, five with the Washington Redskins and 12 at Geer. Therapist Assistant Paul Faggioni has 12 years of hands-on experience, the last four at Geer. ”Our clients run the gamut,” says Mangini. “Some are high schoolers with sports injuries. We get a lot of doctors’ referrals for patients with knee and hip replacements.” Built within the last five years, the welcoming space is bright and conveniently laid-out, with huge windows that overlook the woods. The equipment is state of the art, and includes three massage tables, a seated elliptical trainer, an arm-cycle, ultrasound to deal with pain, and Hydrotrack, which is essentially a treadmill in water. They also have use of the YMCA pool. “We are small,” says Mangini, “but we can give everyone individual attention. We also have the time to keep abreast of the latest evidence-based medical research. Orthopedic therapy is constantly evolving.” Geer, which owns the Rehab Center, is a non-profit, community-owned corporation. The Center began serving patients outside the nursing and assisted living facilities ten years ago, and now serves only outsiders. Its growth depends heavily on word of mouth from satisfied clients. “I am pleased that we can offer these services to people who otherwise would have to travel as far as Waterbury or Hartford. When mobility is an issue, it’s particularly helpful to have these services close to home,” said Mr. Mangini. Newcomers are advised to drive straight past the first nursing home on the right and park outside the second one located in the wooded area up the hill. The receptionist inside will guide you to the Rehab Center in the north wing.