Physical Therapy in Columbia, SC

Whether you're logging miles through Shandon, hitting PRs at your CrossFit box, or trying to play 18 on your favorite course without back pain, nagging injuries shouldn't keep you on the sidelines. At Salerno Sports Therapy, we help active adults in Columbia train through rehab, build real strength, and return to sport with confidence.

Our Columbia Location

Visit us in Columbia

We're located on Millwood Ave, convenient to Shandon, Forest Acres, and neighborhoods throughout Columbia.

How We Help Columbia Athletes

Physical therapy built for your sport

We treat runners with knee pain, lifters with shoulder issues, and golfers who lose power by the back nine.

Two men in a gym; one is dragging a weighted sled while the other watches on artificial turf.

Physical Therapy

One-on-one strength-focused sessions tailored to your training. We address pain from lifting, knee issues, and back problems—getting you stronger and back to what you love.

Running Physical Therapy

Gait analysis, strength assessments, and return-to-running plans for runners with knee, shin, hip, or back pain.

Golf Physical Therapy

TPI-based movement screens and body-focused training to help golfers play without pain and improve power.

Trainer coaching a woman lifting a barbell with weights in a gym with American and other flags in the background.

Performance Programs

Structured coaching and training programs for athletes

Why Columbia Athletes Choose Us

One-on-one sessions in a gym, not a clinic

You get a full hour with your PT every session—no assistants, no rotating therapists, no treatment tables lined up in rows. We work in a space with racks, barbells, and turf because that's where real strength gets built. You'll leave every session knowing exactly what to do, why it matters, and how it connects to your sport.

What Columbia athletes are saying

Real results from runners, lifters, and golfers who refused to settle.

I'm so glad I found Salerno Sports Therapy. After 5 months of traditional PT, my back pain was still giving me problems. After 4 weeks with Dr. Nathan, I'm able to run without back pain for the first time in 6 months. I really appreciate how they listen to my concerns and personalize my care plan to my specific needs and goals. Not only is my pain significantly better, but I'm gaining strength and confidence in my running. Thanks Jay and Nathan!
Katie McKenzie
I’m a college baseball and was having pain/tightness in my throwing arm shoulder. After working with Jay for only a few weeks my shoulder is feeling way stronger and healthier than before.
Charlie Compton
I’ve never thought going to physical therapy was a way to deal with ongoing issues from having an active lifestyle. Working with Jay over the last 7 months has shown me multiple ways to work through lower back issues in order to keep me doing the things I love doing - hiking and diving. It’s a great feeling to see progress in strength and mobility. Jay is dependable, available and very easy to work with.
Amy Townsend
Salerno Sports Therapy delivers tailor made therapy in each session. Every visit is different because each visit I am getting stronger. I have not only improved my physical conditioning but gained a better understanding of how to maintain strength and flexibility in the future.
Tom McManus
An outdoor enthusiast Dr. Jay understands the things that we do in pursuit of our sports and the associated injuries that can occur. This knowledge sets him apart in his approach to treatment and wellness to ensure healing and recover to return to the outdoors.
Scott Brown
I have been in pain pretty much all year. Jay was able to quickly identify the issues, set a plan, and now I am no longer in pain every morning. Its a wonderful feeling. The results speak for themselves.
Alan Parks

Common questions from Columbia athletes

Everything you need to know about getting started at Salerno Sports Therapy.

Do I need a referral to start physical therapy in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina allows direct access to physical therapy, so you can schedule your free discovery call and evaluation without seeing a doctor first. If your insurance requires a referral for potential reimbursement, we can help coordinate that after your first visit.

How long are sessions, and how often will I need to come in?

Every session is a full hour, one-on-one with your physical therapist. Most people start with one to two visits per week, then adjust based on progress and goals. We build your schedule around your training, not the other way around.

Will I have to stop running, lifting, or playing golf while I'm in PT?

Not usually. We work with your training plan and help you modify loads or intensity when needed, but our goal is to keep you moving. For most people, smart training is part of the rehab process.

Why is this more expensive than other clinics in Columbia?

We're intentionally out-of-network and premium because it lets us give you a full hour of one-on-one attention, coach you through exercises in real time, and build a plan around your sport instead of insurance codes. You're paying for expertise, time, and results.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Wear athletic clothes you can move in—shorts or leggings and a t-shirt work great. If you're a runner, bring your current shoes. If you're working on a lifting issue, we may ask you to demonstrate movements, so dress like you're going to the gym.

Ready to get started?

Schedule your free discovery call and take the first step back to your sport.

Stop letting pain keep you on the sidelines

Whether you're chasing a PR, working through a tweak, or just want to train without worry, we're here to help you get stronger and get back to what you love.