Patient-Centered Care
Optimal Form & Function was established during a challenging and dynamic era for both patients and healthcare professionals. In modern healthcare, there has been a notable shift towards prioritizing high patient volume, often in response to declining reimbursement rates by insurance companies. This trend has led to the consolidation of clinics and services under corporate entities, which at times overshadowing the crucial emphasis on individualized patient care.
Treatment Philosophy
The founder of Optimal Form & Function resolutely believes that every patient deserves to be treated as a unique individual, not just a number. By embracing innovative evidence-based approaches, Optimal Form & Function is dedicated to promoting quality over quantity of care through the following three tiered treatment philosophy:
Optimal Foundation
The establishment of a strong foundation not only for physical recovery, but also for a lasting patient-therapist relationship. Together, we protect injured structures, stimulate and encourage the body's natural healing responses, and begin to address hidden muscle imbalances to build a solid foundation for your journey.
Optimal Form
Jointly, we focus on ensuring precise form during active exercises and treatments based on your symptoms and specific condition. Promoting proper active exercise techniques to improve flexibility, core stability, and build strength, endurance, and power. All with personalized one-on-one guidance from your experienced physical therapist.
Optimal Function
All the hard work pays off, coming together to allow you to achieve optimal function in your daily life. Through functional exercises and continued support, you return to the activities you love while maintaining the strong foundation of our patient-therapist relationship and the achievement of your unique goals.
Meet Michael
Background
Michael Formisano pursued his academic journey at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, earning both his Bachelor’s of Science in Health Science and his Master’s in Physical Therapy in 2003.Â
In 2007, he returned to the University of the Sciences to earn his Post-Professional Doctorate in Physical Therapy.Â
After completing significant independent coursework and study, he achieved board certification as an American Physical Therapy Association Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedics (OCS) in 2009. Michael continued his training, and in 2019 he was re-certified a Clinical Specialist in Orthopedics, distinguishing himself as one of only 372 physical therapy specialists in New Jersey (as of 6/2023).Â
In 2022, Michael completed his coursework to obtain certification in Dry Needling (Cert. DN) from the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy.
Professional Experience
Michael has been practicing in Bergen County, NJ for 20 years gaining valuable experience in orthopedics, neurologic, geriatric, pediatric, and sports rehabilitation.
Michael also served as an Adjunct Professor at Dominican College, where he taught Biomechanics and Kinesiology for 3 years. Additionally, he worked as lab assistant for the Soft Tissue Palpation and Mobilization as well as the Advanced Principles classes.  Â
Personal Life
Michael maintains an active lifestyle outside his professional commitments by working out and practicing Yoga on a regular basis. These activities enable him to pursue his hobbies which include: bodyboarding, surfing, and mountain biking locally and exploring destinations worldwide. Furthermore, he cherishes his downtime with family, friends, and his family Irish Setter, Scarlett on Long Beach Island.
