Staten Island athlete turned chiropractor opens specialized sports medicine clinic

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — As a dual-credentialed chiropractic physician and certified athletic trainer, Dr. Robert Minlionica has dedicated his career to the practice of evidence-based sports medicine. And as a lifelong Staten Islander and former athlete, it’s his goal to bring innovative injury recovery and performance optimization to borough residents.

“We bring a multimodal approach to athletic healthcare on Staten Island, combining advanced chiropractic techniques with soft-tissue therapies, functional rehabilitation and strength training,” Minlionica noted about his Oakwood practice, Staten Island Chiropractic and Sports Rehab, located at 2950 Hylan Blvd. “From high-performing athletes and weekend warriors to busy professionals and those looking to stay active pain-free — our goal is to help them move better, feel stronger, and live healthier.”

Minlionica, who earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Alfred University in New York and a master’s degree in public administration from New Jersey’s Kean University, worked as an athletic training intern with the New York Jets before earning his doctor of chiropractic degree from Logan University in Missouri. He also worked at the University of Memphis, providing full-time chiropractic care to student-athletes — all experiences which inspired the concierge care he now brings to Staten Islanders.

“We’ve created a really niche type of atmosphere here as well as an active, movement-based approach to rehabilitation,” he said. “My experience as both a chiropractor and athletic trainer allows me to have a different view of an injury and how to treat it.”

A product of St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School, Huguenot, Minlionica played football for the Vikings and was honored as an Advance All Star in 2011. He now works alongside the athletic programs of both Curtis and Tottenville high schools.

“It’s so rewarding to watch the students heal and help them return to the field after an injury,” he said, speaking of his collaboration with athletes, parents and the coaching staff at several different borough schools. “Seeing them through the rehab process and getting back to full strength is the most gratifying part of this job.”

Minlionica also works with F.C. Chaos Boxing Gym, which has locations in Charleston and Castleton Corners, and Ink Couture, Pleasant Plains, and has advanced training in techniques such as Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Active Release Therapy.

“Most people think of the chiropractic field as quick treatments simply focused on manipulating and adjusting,” Minlionica said. “But ours is a hybrid multimodal program of care that truly delivers the best results.”

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Staten Island Chiropractic & Sports Rehab at a Glance

Address: 2950 Hylan Blvd

Phone: 718-874-6002

Website: www.sisportschiro.com

Instagram: @sisportschiro