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JANUARY 2026
847-515-8970 • KineticPTS.com
Holidays Are Over, Now It’s Time to Unwrap the Pain If You Think It’ll Go Away on Its Own ... Think Again
I don’t know about you, but every year, as soon as the holidays wind down, I feel like I’ve been through a marathon. The wrapping paper’s gone, the decorations are back in their boxes, and suddenly I realize, oh right, that ache in my leg didn’t magically disappear between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Funny how that works. January is the perfect time for a reset. It’s colder, quieter, and with not nearly as many distractions. The chaos of the holidays fades, and suddenly, we have a little more breathing room. A little more time to focus on the things we’ve been putting off… like finally doing something about that nagging pain, the stiffness that won’t quit, or the balance issues that make you grab for the nearest countertop. I get it, because I’ve been there, literally. I spent the majority of 2025 recovering from a leg injury. And believe me, there were times I wondered if I’d ever feel “normal” again. I remember thinking, “Well, maybe this is just how I’m going to be now.” And that’s coming from someone who’s treated hundreds of patients over the past 25 years. You’d think I’d know better! The truth is that healing isn’t a straight line. It’s a whole lot of two steps forward, one step back, and sometimes it’s just sitting there, wondering if your body got the memo that it’s supposed to be improving. I’ll be honest, there were moments when I didn’t think I’d get there. But I kept at it. And now? I’m finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. My walking is smoother, my pain is decreasing, and I’m inching closer to my goal: getting back on the golf course by spring. That’s my New Year’s goal, to be teeing off with my dad and my brother again. I had to skip last year entirely, which was tough. So, this January, I’m
focusing on rebuilding my strength, improving my balance, and working on golf-specific movements. Mini golf might be my warm-up round. Here’s the thing I’ve learned: Healing, recovery, and getting stronger are all about consistency. Many people give up too soon. They think, “It’s not working,” or “I tried therapy once.” But sometimes the problem isn’t the plan, it’s the timing, or the follow-through, or life getting in the way. That’s why I always tell folks: January is your redo button. It’s not too late to start again. You just have to take that first step. And if you’ve been thinking, “Maybe it’ll go away on its own,” well … probably not. Pain has a way of sticking around when ignored. Age doesn’t mean you have to feel worse. I’ve seen people in their 70s and 80s make amazing progress. It’s possible, you just have to give your body the right tools and time to do it. So, here’s my challenge to you: Make January the month you listen to your body. Start moving better, feeling stronger, and getting back to what you love, whether that’s golf, gardening, or just going up the stairs without wincing. And hey, if you’re not sure where to start, we’re offering free screenings this month. Check out the flyer in this month’s newsletter for more details! Come in, get checked out, and see what’s possible. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to get your spark back. Here’s to a new year, new goals, and maybe even a new swing. I’ll see you on the green. –Mike Ulmer
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Published by Newsletter Pro | NewsletterPro.com
Ditch the Quick Fix
Energize Naturally With Simple Daily Habits
It’s 3 p.m., and you’ve hit the dreaded midday slump. For many Americans, coffee or an energy drink may fuel their second wind. When tired, we tend to turn to external sources for a boost, it’s a temporary fix; we’ll encounter the same issue the next day. Instead, we need to look internally and make changes to improve overall well-being for the long term. A healthier, more consistent way to increase energy is possible! Do you stay up late every night? Do you use your phone right before you fall asleep? Do you have trouble waking up in the morning? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time to give your sleep a facelift. Try to go to bed at the same time every night, ideally around 9 or 10 p.m. Put your phone away at least an hour before bed. If this is difficult, practice meditation
whenever you feel tempted to grab your phone.
Your diet may also need adjustments. If you skip meals, eat junk food, or snack right before bed, you’ll feel it later. During the day, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and nutrient-rich foods instead. Make time for every meal, stepping away from your work while you eat. If you do not get enough nutrients, supplement your diet with vitamins. Consider your daily movement as well. It might sound counterproductive, but exercise can substantially boost our energy. Exercise improves oxygen and nutrient circulation while allowing us to get better sleep. You don’t have to go through life lacking energy. Make adjustments today for a more energized tomorrow.
PATIENT TESTIMONIALS Getting Confidence Back
“When I started, I had extreme hip and leg pain that would wake me up in the middle of the night. I also had a hard time walking. “I have improved so much that I can sleep through the night. I appreciate how Emery listened to me and adjusted my therapy.
“I am very satisfied with Kinetic PT and especially Mandie. With her patient style and encouragement, I was able to gradually increase my range of
motion and strength a week at a time. From reaching up to higher shelves or carrying heavier loads, I have felt gradual improvement along the way. “I can now play pickleball with no pain and enjoy that activity 2–3 times a week.” – Sharon Little
I have had other physical therapists, but Emery has been the first one I felt comfortable with and felt great improvement! Thank you!” – Virginia Borowicz
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Shake Off the Holiday Slump SIMPLE STEPS TO REIGNITE YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE
MAKE ACTIVITY A NATURAL PART OF YOUR DAY. One of the easiest
The holidays are filled with joy, family, treats, and a few extra helpings of everything. Now that the wrapping paper is gone and it’s a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to get your body moving again. But getting back into your routine doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym. From easy daily exercises to simple stretches, here’s how you can shake off the holiday slump and feel great heading into 2026. START SLOW AND LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Though you may feel tempted to jump right back into your routine or put in extra hours to “catch up,” ease back into physical activity. Your muscles and joints need time to adjust, and starting slow will help prevent soreness, stiffness,
and possible injuries. As you build your strength, you can increase the intensity of your exercises. Your body will tell you if you are pushing too hard. DON’T SKIP STRETCHING. Stretching helps your muscles prepare for
ways to get back into a healthy routine is by making small, intentional
changes to your daily habits. Look at your regular errands as
activity, and it’s especially important if you haven’t been as active over the holidays. Even a simple five-minute stretching routine before your main workout can significantly reduce your chance of aches and pains. Make sure to always include time for warm-ups and cool- downs. Dynamic stretches, such as walking lunges, help loosen your muscles, while static stretches, like bicep stretches, aid in recovery.
opportunities to get your body moving. Choose the
Sudoku stairs instead of the elevator, park further away from the store so you can walk more, or take an extra lap around the grocery store. Getting back on track after the holidays can be simple when you take it one step at a time. Contact our office for a free health screening and let us help you start the year feeling healthy and energized.
KOREAN GROUND BEEF
INGREDIENTS Sauce • 1/4 cup reduced- sodium soy sauce • 1 tbsp honey, or a liquid sugar-free sweetener • 1 tsp cornstarch • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Stir Fry • 2 tbsp avocado oil • 1 lb lean ground beef, 85/15 • 1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced • 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, minced Finishing Touches • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside. 2. In a large skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as you cook, about 5 minutes. 3. Drain the beef and return it to the skillet. Add garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. 4. Stir sauce into the beef, then cook for 2 more minutes, until heated through and the sauce thickens. 5. Off heat, drizzle the dish with
sesame oil, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve over white rice (if desired).
Inspired by HealthyRecipesBlogs.com
KineticPTS.com | 3
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
11920 Oak Creek Parkway Huntley, IL 60142
INSIDE
Tired, Stiff, and Sore After the Holidays? You’re Not Alone PAGE 1 The Healthy Cure for Your 3 p.m. Crash PAGE 2 Patient Testimonials: Getting Confidence Back PAGE 2 Start Slow, Stretch More, and Move Every Day PAGE 3
Korean Ground Beef PAGE 3
Your Guide to the Great Barrier Reef’s Most Epic Experiences PAGE 4
Prefer to keep your head dry? The 74 tropical Whitsunday Islands are perfect for cruising, whether on a bareboat charter or a luxury superyacht. For a show-stopping perspective, consider a scenic helicopter transfer to the Outer Reef. From the air, the patterns of coral, tiny secluded islands, and endless shades of blue make it clear just how massive this natural wonder truly is. For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Reefsleep Experience takes you to Hardy Reef after day-trippers have left. Snorkel, dive, or relax on the Reefworld platform, then enjoy a barbecue as the sun sets. When night falls, snuggle into your floating tent under the stars or take a night dive to see the reef glow in a completely different light. Thrill-seekers, take note: Mission Beach offers a jaw- dropping skydiving experience over the reef and surrounding rainforest, plunging from 15,000 feet with expert guides to ensure an unforgettable ride. No matter how you experience it (by snorkel, yacht, helicopter, or parachute), the Great Barrier Reef is an adventure that promises awe, excitement, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Swim With Turtles, Whales, and Wonder at the Great Barrier Reef
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place so vast it dwarfs entire countries, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of your bucket list. Stretching over 1,400 miles along the eastern coastline, this paradise is larger than the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands combined! The Great Barrier Reef is home to dazzling coral gardens, colorful fish, giant clams, and six of the seven known marine turtle species. From snorkelers to skydivers, the Reef offers something unforgettable for every kind of adventurer. Underwater, the options are endless. Lizard Island is a snorkeler’s paradise where you can float above giant clam beds and glide alongside green turtles. Divers flock to Cod Hole for an up-close look at the Reef’s most famous marine residents, while those craving a more remote experience can hop aboard a dive ship to explore untouched corners teeming with biodiversity.
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Published by Newsletter Pro | NewsletterPro.com
Start the New Year Right and Break Free From That Stubborn Pain
You know how it happens.
One small ache becomes a constant whisper. Then the whisper becomes a nagging presence. And before long, that “little pain” is controlling more of your life than you ever intended to give it.
But here’s the truth no one tells you: Your body is always trying to heal. You need to give it the right push … at the right time.
And there is no better time than the beginning of a new year, when momentum is on your side, and your goals still burn bright.
For Four Days Only …
We’re Opening Our Doors to Past Patients for a FREE Week of Screenings Jan. 20–23 at Kinetic Physical Therapy Specialists in Huntley, IL
This is not a sales pitch. This is not a routine check-in.
This is a focused screening, performed by our licensed Physical Therapists, designed to help answer one important question:
“Is your stubborn pain coming from something physical therapy can help with, and what would the next steps look like if you chose to move forward?”
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This 30-minute screening will identify potential problem areas, such as movement issues, strength deficits, posture stresses, or mobility limitations, that may be contributing to your symptoms.
At the end, you’ll receive:
• A brief explanation of what may be contributing to your pain • Professional guidance on whether physical therapy is recommended • Clear next-step options if you choose to begin a full plan of care
Why We’re Doing This Every January, countless people promise to “get healthier,” but they drag last year’s pain with them like a ball and chain.
We want your goals to actually happen this year. We want you to move more freely, sleep better, and enjoy life again the way your body was meant to.
But There Is One Catch … To ensure every screening is meaningful and each person receives the attention they deserve, we must limit the number of available spots. Once the schedule is full, it’s full.
Call 847-515-8970 to Claim Your FREE Screening Now!
The new year has begun. Your body is ready. Let’s take the next step toward feeling better.
Sincerely,
Mike Ulmer, Physical Therapist
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