Sports Physical Therapy in Evanston, IL | Specialists in Running Rehab

Valiant Physical Therapy is a sports physical therapy clinic in Evanston serving runners and active adults throughout the North Shore. Our mission is simple: to get injured runners back to running stronger than before.

While we specialize in working with runners, from first time 5K athletes to marathoners and Ironman competitors, we treat all active individuals who want to overcome injury and return to the activities that matter most to them. Whether running is your sport, part of your workout routine, or something you are just getting into, we are here to help.

Our approach combines expert movement assessment, running gait analysis, strength based rehab, and individualized performance planning. We do not just treat symptoms. We identify the root cause, build capacity, and help you return to training with confidence.

If you are searching for physical therapy for runners in Evanston or the North Shore, you are in the right place.

Founder | Endurance Athlete | Sports Rehab Specialist

Dr. Michael Cortese founded Valiant Physical Therapy to create the kind of sports rehab clinic he wished existed throughout his own endurance journey.

As an Ironman triathlete and lifelong runner, Dr. Michael understands firsthand the physical and mental demands of endurance training. He has experienced the setbacks, the injuries, the long rehab processes, and the breakthroughs. That lived experience shapes how he treats every runner who walks through the door.

His passion is helping runners train consistently and compete pain free. Through detailed movement assessment, progressive strength programming, and smart return to run planning, Dr. Michael helps athletes not just recover, but come back stronger.

Whether you are building toward your first race or simply want running to feel good again, his goal is to help you stay in the sport for the long haul.

Staff Physical Therapist | Sports Rehab Specialist

Dr. Kyle is a dedicated and highly skilled physical therapist committed to helping active individuals return to the activities they love.

He brings a strong foundation in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, with a thoughtful, detail oriented approach to movement assessment and treatment planning. Patients appreciate his calm presence, clear communication, and ability to break down complex rehab into actionable steps.

While he enjoys staying active through basketball and strength training, Dr. Kyle has developed a growing expertise in working with runners and endurance athletes under the Valiant model. He combines evidence based rehab with practical coaching to help patients build strength, restore confidence, and perform at a high level.

Simply put, Kyle is the kind of clinician you want in your corner when you are working your way back from injury.

Patient Care Coordinator | Remote Front Desk

Rhona is a trusted and dependable part of the Valiant Physical Therapy team, ensuring that every patient’s experience runs smoothly behind the scenes.

As our remote front desk and patient care coordinator, she manages scheduling and answers administrative questions. If you need to adjust an appointment, Rhona is the person making sure it gets handled quickly and clearly. When you call or text our main line at 847 220 4375, Rhona is there to provide clear communication and timely support.

Professional, responsive, and highly organized, she plays a key role in maintaining the high standard of service we expect at Valiant Physical Therapy. From your first appointment through ongoing care, Rhona helps ensure that everything outside the treatment room is handled.

Schedule a free, commitment free discovery phone call with Dr. Michael to get started.
Over the phone you’ll discuss your injury, your goals, and we’ll determine the next best step for you.

Book your free discovery call today using the button below.