Institute of Functional Movement
Where Movement Meets Evidence.
Physical therapy, performance care, and professional education — grounded in science, built for people.
Who We Serve
Two pathways. One mission.
For Patients
Physical Therapy & Performance Care
One-on-one care to help you move better, build strength, restore function, and return to the activities that matter most.
For Professionals
Education & Professional Development
Research-informed education and practical resources for movement professionals who want to deepen their clinical reasoning, assessment skills, and ability to apply movement science.
Patient Services
Movement Care That Feels Personal
A focused approach for people who want support that is thoughtful, individualized, and centered on long-term function.
Our Mission
Movement is Medicine.
To advance the understanding, assessment, and optimization of human movement through education, research, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
We believe that every person deserves access to expert movement care — and that every clinician deserves the education to deliver it. These two commitments are inseparable.
Our work sits at the intersection of clinical practice, applied science, and professional development. We don't separate treating patients from training clinicians — both are expressions of the same mission.
"The best movement care is grounded in evidence, delivered with empathy, and never stops learning."— Dr. James P. Kiernan, PT, DPT, Founder
Evidence-Based
Every recommendation is grounded in current research and clinical science.
Patient-Centered
Your goals, your timeline, your outcomes — care built around you.
Clinician-Led
Direct access to doctoral-level clinicians. No aides, no shortcuts.
Leadership
Meet the founder
Founder & Lead Clinician
Dr. James P. Kiernan, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist · Movement Specialist · Educator
Dr. Kiernan is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with advanced training in movement science, sports rehabilitation, and clinical education. He founded the Institute of Functional Movement to bridge the gap between research and practice — creating a place where patients receive individualized, evidence-informed care and clinicians have access to the education they need to deliver it.
Google Reviews
What Patients Are Saying
Real feedback from patients who have worked with Kiernan Wellness & Physical Therapy.
"Without James, I wouldn't have made it through my first marathon. I strained my hamstring a few weeks before the race and could barely run a mile. He made sure I got to the starting line, with zero issues during the race! James was incredibly responsive, checked in between sessions, and made time for extra appointments knowing I had a race coming up. He truly cares about his patients, and is extremely knowledgeable."
"In my 35 years as a personal trainer in NYC, James is the physical therapist that has helped me as well as my clients the most."
"Jim was so incredibly helpful in assessing my hip issues, trying different approaches, being available to help answer questions and genuinely caring about my improvement. Highly recommended!"
"James is an incredible physical therapist. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and caring. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a physical therapist."
Reviews are sourced directly from Google. We never edit or curate patient feedback.
Read Our Google ReviewsGet Started
Ready to Move Better?
Take the first step toward better movement, stronger function, or professional growth. We're ready when you are.
Start with a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your goals, ask questions, and determine whether an evaluation is the right next step.
What to Expect
Your first visit
- 1-on-1 evaluation — 60 minutes with your Doctor of PT, no aides.
- Evidence-based plan — a clear roadmap built around your goals.
- No referral needed — direct access in most states.
- Flexible scheduling — we work to accommodate your availability.