Mobility & Movement Restoration
Rebuild stiffness, weakness and movement limitations so you can stay active.
How can I restore normal movement after pain or injury?
Restoring movement means identifying which joints, muscles or motor patterns are limited, then retraining them progressively with mobility work, strength and coordination exercises. Spinal Haven's one-on-one sessions combine SFMA findings with a personalized plan so active adults can return to training, sport and daily life.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary, DPT
Return to a Life Full of Activity
We commonly help with:
- Fitness
- Work
- Parenting
- Recreation
What to expect at Spinal Haven
Your first visit is a full one-on-one evaluation with Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary. We combine the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) with the McKenzie Method® to understand how your body moves and what is driving your symptoms, then agree on a clear plan and timeline together.
Who is this for?
Active adults who want to get back to training, work, and everyday life — especially if previous care felt rushed or generic. We regularly see working professionals, active seniors and athletes & lifters.
Patients visit our Southfield clinic from Royal Oak, Clawson, Madison Heights, Birmingham, Berkley, Ferndale and Troy, and from across Metro Detroit. Get directions
Common questions
What happens during my initial evaluation?
Your therapist will discuss your symptoms and history, evaluate relevant movements, observe how your symptoms respond, and develop an individualized starting plan.
Is it safe to be evaluated if I've had a spinal fusion?
Yes. Having a spinal fusion does not automatically prevent you from receiving an evaluation. Every assessment at Spinal Haven is individualized and begins with a thorough review of your medical history, surgical history, current symptoms, and movement limitations. Our goal is to understand how your body is functioning while respecting the unique considerations of your surgery. Treatment recommendations are always tailored to your specific condition and comfort level.
I've been told extension is bad for my back. Is it still safe to get an evaluation?
Absolutely. Many people are told to avoid certain movements, but those recommendations are not always appropriate for every individual. At Spinal Haven, we never assume one movement is right—or wrong—for everyone. During your evaluation, we'll carefully assess how your symptoms respond to different positions and movements to determine what is most appropriate for your specific condition. The assessment is designed to safely identify which movements may help, which should be modified, and which should be avoided, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan based on your body's response rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
What if physical therapy has not helped me before?
Previous treatment does not necessarily mean every assessment or treatment approach will produce the same experience. A discovery call can help determine whether Spinal Haven’s mechanical, movement-based approach may be appropriate for you.
Further reading
- Exercise is Medicine® — American College of Sports Medicine
- Clinical Practice Guidelines — American Physical Therapy Association