Physical Therapy Rehab Pilates in Coral Gables, Florida
Physical Therapist: Michele Gust.
With over 25 years of experience in the field of physical therapy, I founded South Miami Physical Therapy & Pilates to offer a radically different approach to healing—one that combines the science of physical therapy with the art of individualized care.
After earning my Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Florida International University (FIU) in 1996, I began my career at Baptist Hospital’s inpatient rehab center, where I developed a strong foundation in post-acute care.
I later transitioned to an outpatient sports clinic, working with professional athletes—including members of the Miami Heat, elite tennis players, and golfers—as well as individuals dealing with chronic pain, post-operative recovery, and sports injuries.
Frustrated by the traditional high-volume clinic model that limits real connection and hands-on time with patients, I made the decision in 2000 to become fully self-employed.
I completed my Comprehensive Pilates training through Polestar and began offering private, concierge physical therapy and Pilates sessions—bringing expert-level care directly to people’s homes.
At South Miami Physical Therapy & Pilates, my mission is simple: to treat each person as an individual and to uncover and correct the root causes of pain and dysfunction. My approach combines advanced manual therapy techniques with Pilates-based rehab in a fully equipped private studio.
This allows for a seamless transition from pain relief to full-body wellness and strength, all under one roof.
In 2023, I expanded the healing potential of the practice by incorporating cutting-edge energy healing technologies, including the Energy Enhancement System (EES), Red Light Therapy with Infrared and PEMF, and sound healing therapies.
Patients now have full access to our in-house Energy Spa, designed to elevate cellular energy and support the body’s innate ability to heal.
What sets our center apart is not just the personalized, one-on-one care—but the comprehensive, whole-body approach that empowers patients to heal quickly, build strength, and feel their absolute best on every level.
Carlos Diaz | Athletic Trainer | Pilates Reformer Restorative Movement Specialist | Low Back and Sciatic Pain Rehabilitation | Founder, Thera Fit Relief Method | Ergonomic Specialist Assessment for the Workplace and Injury Prevention.
Carlos Diaz is an accomplished Athletic Trainer and Pilates Reformer Restorative Movement Specialist dedicated to helping people relieve with over 37 years of experience and prevent low back and sciatic pain through evidence-based Pilates rehabilitation. He is the founder of Thera Fit Relief, an online program that eliminates low back, sciatic, and hip pain. He also developed a tracking tool to empower clients to monitor their progress and outcomes. He combines combined movement with ergonomic assessments to reduce workplace injuries and improve productivity.
Academic Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, Universidad de Ciencias de la Cultura Física y el Deporte “Manuel Fajardo” (UCCFD), Cuba, 1994
- Graduated as a Certified Athletic Trainer specialized in sports injuries in Havana, Cuba.
- Did study Advanced manual therapies training in United States with renowned clinicians, including:
- John Upledger, DO
- Craig Sandor, DC
- Jean Pierre Barral, DO
- Rodrigo Ferrer, PT
- Robert Lerner, PT
- Michele Gust, PT
Founder, Thera Fit Relief:
- Created Thera Fit Relief, an online program to help individuals eliminate low back, sciatica, and hip pain
- Developed a client self-assessment tracking tool to measure progress and outcomes.
Core Services & Expertise:
- Pilates Reformer-based rehabilitation and restorative movement
- Corrective exercise and lumbar stabilization programs
- Ergonomic risk assessment, job task analysis, and workstation redesign
- Functional movement screening (FMS) and movement assessments
- Injury prevention and return-to-work programs
- Biomechanics and postural analysis
- Online training and employee education workshops
- Data reporting and ROI measurement
Professional Experience:
- Implemented 150+ on-site ergonomic assessments annually for office teams; redesigned 30 high-risk workstations, reducing low back incidents by 42% within 3 months (Viacom and Paramount Pictures, Miami Beach)
- Conducted 100+ ergonomic assessments for Broward College faculty, improving productivity and reducing low back injury rates
- Developed an online corrective exercise program (lumbar stabilization + Pilates-based retraining) with a 55% reduction in lost-time claims and an 18% productivity increase
- Partnered with HR firms to shorten average return-to-work time from 21 to 10 days, saving $120K in lost productivity in year one
- Trained 45+ supervisors online with report templates; achieved 90% adoption in the first quarter
Approach & Philosophy:
I believe musculoskeletal disorders often arise from a combination of physical and lifestyle factors. By applying scientifically based prevention and movement education, we reduce injuries and pain while enhancing performance and well-being. My philosophy centers on empowering clients to regain function through targeted movement, better posture, and sustainable habits.
Personal Motivation:
Carlos has faced chronic low back and sciatic pain himself, driven by scoliosis and herniated discs. His personal journey informed a compassionate, evidence-based approach that helps clients reclaim daily activities they love—whether at work, at home, or in sport.
Philosophy Statement:
Musculoskeletal health is enhanced by a holistic approach: movement education, balanced nutrition, and consistent activity. I guide clients toward a pain-free life through practical, repeatable strategies that fit real-world work and life demands.
