Bio
Dr. Mario Novo, DPT, completed his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Florida International University in 2014, where as a graduate assistant, he ran and conducted various human performance and clinical research trials. With a specialization in kinesiology, biomechanics, and neurorehabilitation, Dr. Novo has a distinguished background in leading teams of undergraduate/graduate-level students and licensed physical therapists in biomechanics research, clinical practice patterns, continuing education certification, and standardized testing preparation. His primary clinical focus lies in managing, treating, and developing memory impairments, chronic pain, and the physiological impacts of Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT). Dr. Novo has made substantial contributions to the field of Physical Therapy, having served as an early advocate of BFRT continuing education and playing a significant role in strength-based rehabilitation education.
Dr. Mario Novo, DPT
University Professor, Author, Private Tutor and Public Speaker
Email: drnovodpt@gmail.com
EXPERTISE
Pain Neuroscience Education
Dr. Novo practices a biopsychosocial model of care that deploys Pain neuroscience education (PNE), which is a strategy that aims to change the way patients perceive and understand pain. The goal of PNE is to increase pain thresholds during exercise, reduce fear related to movement, and decrease brain activity in areas associated with pain. In practice, PNE involves using pain analogies, correcting patient misconceptions about the causes of pain, and providing guidance on lifestyle and movement modifications.
Blood Flow Restriction
Dr. Novo is certified in the clinical administering of BFR training and has certified hundreds of clinicians from around the world in the clinical use of BFR. The goal of this training is to replicate the effects of high-intensity exercise by creating a hypoxic environment using a cuff. The cuff is placed close to the muscle being exercised, allowing low-intensity exercises to be performed. By restricting blood outflow, the cuff causes a buildup of capillary blood with low oxygen content, leading to increased levels of protons and lactic acid. As a result, the muscle undergoes similar physiological adaptations, such as hormone release, hypoxia, and cell swelling, as would be experienced during high-intensity exercise.
Physical Therapy
Dr. Novo has been a licensed Physical Therapist for 9 years, with a total of 17 years of clinical experience and sports medicine research. Dr. Novo has worked with everyday people and professional athletes, and performers of all backgrounds. Dr. Novo has clinical experience within pediatrics orthopedics, joint replacement, chronic pain, post-surgical tendon, and soft tissue repairs, spinal cord acute care, amputee acute care, neurological and cardiovascular acute care, and experience with congenital impairments. Dr. Novo is bilingual and fluent in English and Spanish.