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About Dr. Lev Kalika
“To me, objectivity is the missing link in physical therapy, rehabilitation medicine and orthobiologics . By combining European clinical heritage with the world’s most advanced biomechanical technology and high resolution diagnostic musculoskeletal sonography I am redefining what is possible in patient care.”
Dr. Lev Kalika, DC, RMSK Internationally Recognized Expert in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Regenerative Orthopedics, Fascia Science, and Technology-Driven Rehabilitation
Dr. Lev Kalika is a clinician-scientist, RMSK-certified musculoskeletal ultrasound specialist, international faculty speaker, published researcher, peer reviewer, and founder of NYDNRehab in New York City. His clinical work focuses on solving complex musculoskeletal, sports, orthopedic, fascial, and nerve-related pain conditions through a unique integration of high-resolution diagnostic ultrasound, dynamic biomechanical testing, ultrasound-guided procedures, regenerative medicine, and advanced rehabilitation technologies.
Dr. Kalika serves as a scientific peer reviewer for Discover Neuroscience (Springer Nature) and Frontiers in Medicine. His peer-review activity is independently verified through his public Clarivate Web of Science Researcher Profile and reflected in his ORCID record.
With almost three decades of clinical experience, 94 peer-reviewed publications and scientific contributions, book chapter coauthorship, and international conference faculty appointments, Dr. Kalika has become known for a diagnostic approach that goes beyond traditional orthopedic examination and static MRI.
Key Pillars of Dr. Kalika’s Approach
Dr. Kalika trained in Prague under the founders of functional medicine, Dr. Karl Lewit and Dr. Vladimir Janda, and studied DNS with its creator, Dr. Pavel Kolar, working directly with the medical team responsible for the world’s elite athletes.
Recognizing that objectivity was the missing link in physical therapy and chiropractic, Dr. Kalika integrated sports medicine and biomechanics, training with experts like Dr. Christopher Powers to ensure every movement can be quantified and reassessed.
He pioneered the use of the C.A.R.E.N. system (Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment) in private practice a technology typically reserved for research universities and military hospitals to enable real-time motion analysis and immersive rehabilitation.
We don’t guess, we measure.
My goal is to replace intuition with objective data, ensuring that every patient reaches their peak performance.
After training in Europe with renowned musculoskeletal sonography experts Federico Zaottini, MD, and Carlo Martinoli, MD, Dr. Kalika has become an internationally recognized educator in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound. Today, he teaches physicians and rehabilitation professionals worldwide through international conferences, cadaver workshops, and advanced ultrasound training courses, while applying these techniques daily in clinical practice.
Under his leadership, NYDNRehab has become one of the most technologically advanced private clinics in the US, providing patients with access to the same high-level diagnostics and treatment resources found at institutions like Harvard and the Mayo Clinic.
Our Awards
Publications
Featured: AMSKU Global Summit Voices
Diagnostic Ultrasound in Clinical Practice
Dr. Lev Kalika was selected as a spotlight voice in the AMSKU Global Summit Voices series, where clinicians across different countries and disciplines share how musculoskeletal (MSK) diagnostic ultrasound transformed their practice. In his segment, Dr. Kalika discusses his real-world experience with diagnostic ultrasound and how it reshaped the way he evaluates and treats patients at NYDNRehab.
The series — curated by Ryan Martin, DPT, Director of Education Development — reflects a recurring theme across the global MSK community: high-resolution ultrasound doesn’t replace clinical skill, it sharpens it.
Watch Dr. Kalika’s feature
Originally shared on LinkedIn by Ryan Martin, DPT.
DR. LEV KALIKA NAMED TO THE INTERNATIONAL FACULTY OF ENORM 2026, LEUVEN
Dr. Lev Kalika, DC, RMSK, has been named among the international faculty for the 2nd International Conference on Orthobiologics, hosted by the European Network Organisation for Regenerative Medicine (ENORM) in Leuven, Belgium, October 8–10, 2026. The conference brings together global leaders in orthobiologics, regenerative medicine, and ultrasound-guided interventions for keynote lectures, live patient demonstrations, and hands-on training in PRP, BMAC, and MFAT. His inclusion reflects recognized expertise in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound-guided regenerative procedures.
12th Interdisciplinary World Congress on Low Back & Pelvic Girdle Pain in Porto, Portugal
Oral presentation at 12th Interdisciplinary World Congress on Low Back & Pelvic Girdle Pain in Porto, Portugal
5th Hands-On Shockwave Workshop, Anatome Lab / RegenTx, Sunrise, FL (July 24–25, 2026).
Faculty, 5th Hands-On Shockwave Workshop, Anatome Lab / RegenTx, Sunrise, FL (July 24–25, 2026).
Presentation: “Every Image Tells a Story: MSK Ultrasound and Shockwave Case Studies Linking Imaging to Clinical Examination.
Dr. Lev Kalika to Present Advanced Shoulder-to-Headache Therapy Research at ACRM 2025
Proud to be a presenter on two exciting topics:
– The use of a new motion analysis system for scapulohumeral kinematics, enhancing diagnostic precision in patients with headaches.
– A novel approach combining hydrodilatation and ozone therapy delivered via ultrasound-guided injection to correct scapular mechanics and improve overused chest and shoulder muscles.
Presentation at 2025 ESSR Sports Medicine Congress in Toulouse
High-resolution ultrasonography is rapidly surpassing MRI as the imaging modality of choice for musculoskeletal disorders. I recently had the privilege of presenting my research at the 2025 European Society of Radiology Sports Medicine Congress in Toulouse. I was pleased to reconnect with old friends and teachers, especially Dr. Federico Zaotini, MD, and Dr. Carlo Martini, MD – the king of diagnostic ultrasonography – under whom I personally trained.
Dr. Lev Kalika Presents at the 27th ISMST World Conference in Bogotá
Dr. Kalika recently participated in the 27th International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatments (ISMST) World Conference in Bogotá, Columbia, where he showcased his work in two presentations before some of the world’s leading experts in regenerative medicine and orthobiologics. He also led a workshop on ultrasonography.
Not only was it an honor to present before such esteemed and inspiring colleagues, but the conference was an incredible learning opportunity. Especially appreciated was the warmth and energy of the shockwave family—a group that not only advances science, but also knows how to celebrate life together.
Dr. Lev Kalika Presents Advanced Ultrasonography Methods at International OrthoSymposium 2026
Dr. Lev Kalika was selected as a keynote speaker at the 2026 OrthoSymposium in Burgdorf, a prominent international conference dedicated to modern conservative orthopedics. He also conducted an advanced one-hour workshop on shoulder and scapular ultrasonography, sharing specialized clinical approaches to dynamic imaging of complex shoulder dysfunction. Presenting alongside leading experts in sports medicine and regenerative orthopedics, Dr. Kalika’s invitation reflects his recognized expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound, functional diagnostics, and non-surgical orthopedic care.
Objective Metrics and Kinetic Chain Recovery in Musculoskeletal Ankle Injuries
Ankle sprains and their aftermath are often underrated by health care providers and the general public, yet ankle injuries are second only to ACL ruptures in severity, and are the most common musculoskeletal injury. Even the most minor ankle injury can alter your gait, changing the way you walk, run and move. At NYDNRehab, we use specialized technology to determine the severity of ankle sprains, and how they affect the entire body along the kinetic chain. We use objective data to measure the patient’s progress and determine when they can safely return to sports and other activities.
EPMA Representation: Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation in Ultra-Urban Environments
Proud to be the second American to represent EPMA in the field of sports medicine, injury prevention and rehabilitation. My speech addressed different approaches needed by patients in ultra-urban environments.
Presenting Research on Ultrasound Guidance in Shockwave Therapy at ISMST Amsterdam
Presenting my research on the advantages of ultrasound guidance for shockwave therapy at the International Society for Medical Shockwave (ISMST) Congress in Amsterdam. 2024
Barcelona football medicine conference, Camp Nou.
DNS graduation with Karel Lewit and Pavel Kolar. Proud to be one of the first DNS practitioners in the US.
MUSoc 2017 – The 27th Annual Meeting of the Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Society
It’s great to breath the same air as the legend of musculoskeletal ultrasonography, Prof. Carlo Martinoli” – Dr. Lev Kalika at MUSoc 2017 – The 27th Annual Meeting of the Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Society.
The Science of Running Medicine
I constantly upgrade my knowledge by listening to 3 of the world’s best running medicine clinicians: Chris Powers PT PHD, Irene Davis PT PHD and Brian Hiderschide PT PHD.This was my third congress over last 10 years for treating running injuries and performing gait/running analysis
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Conference – Tel Aviv 2017
royal society of medicine
I have been using nerve ultrasonography to diagnose peripheral neuropathy for the past six years. This is a relatively new skill that requires an expert-class ultrasound machine with superior imaging. My interest in nerve ultrasonography was sparked by work I was already doing with NCV/EMG testing and manual nerve work, using physiotherapeutic techniques such as neurodynamics and nerve manipulation therapy introduced by Jean-Pierre Barral. My 20 years of experience have shown that a lot of musculoskeletal orthopedic pain complaints are actually caused by underlying nerve pathology. To improve my diagnostic skills, I have been studying with professor Carlo Martinoli, MD, PHD, a world leader in nerve diagnostic ultrasonography.
(ISPRM ( International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine) , Orlando 2020 )
With prof. Pavel Kolar – the founder
of DNS therapy
With prof . Karel Lewit M.D the legend
of Manual Medicine and my most first mentor
In Paris finally certified with Bernard Bricot -“ the king of Posture” . The missing link of eyes and jaw influence to posture is filled”
Proud to be the talk of professional athletes. Quincy Williams was referred by his brother, who plays for the NY Jets: “best place to go for professional athletes in NY.”
It feels great to help athletes compete and recover. This time it’s Mohamed Elshorbagy, one of the world’s best squash players. Number 1 in 2014 and 2018.
Another Olympian, Dagmara Wozniak is a US Olympian fencer.
Pirates starting pitcher Neil Kozikowski
FASCIA RESEARCH SOCIETY
With Andrey Vleeming
Web of Science
Web of Science is an information and technology provider that supports over 95% of the world’s top research institutions, government entities and research agencies. Web of Science provides the global research community with tools and information it needs to generate trusted research data, foster scientific discovery, promote innovation and achieve economic success. Web of Science features multiple literature search databases designed to support scientific and scholarly research.
Dr, Kalika has been recognized by Web of Science for his contributions to medical research. His Researcher Profile is featured on the platform.
Certificates
The vital role played by fascia in the integration of the various structures of the musculoskeletal system is one of the greatest discoveries of the 21st Century. Fascia research has become one of the hottest topics in musculoskeletal science, providing evidence-based information that connects the dots of previously poorly understood phenomena. We now know that fascia is one of the most significant pain generators in the human body, 5X greater than muscle tissue pain.
Dr.Kalika is one of the few practitioners who combines Stecco diagnostic methodology with high resolution ultrasonography, to get an accurate picture of fascia dysfunction. To restore the integrity of fascia and its capacity to glide, Dr. Kalika uses a combination of ultrasound guided injection therapy and ultrasound guided fascia hydro manipulation.
Dr.Kalika has completed all levels of Stecco Fascial Manipulation since 2021-2024
Proud to be consecutively selected as a reviewer for Discover Neuroscience Journal’s: Advances in Musculoskeletal Pain: Neuromuscular Imaging, Biomarkers, and Targeted Rehabilitation.
Dr. Kalika frequently attends international conferences and seminars, keeping himself on the cutting edge of new advancements in rehabilitative medicine. He recently attended the annual conference of the European Society for Musculoskeletal Radiology in Lugano, Switzerland, where he had the opportunity to enhance his skills in diagnostic and musculoskeletal ultrasonography.
Dr. Kalika was recently inducted as a new member of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Honor Society, a world-wide cadre of distinguished and committed researchers. The induction serves as recognition of Dr. Kalika’s outstanding scholarly achievements and contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the field of rehabilitative medicine.
Sigma Xi is the world’s largest interdisciplinary scientific honor society, boasting such stellar figures as Albert Einstein, Linus Pauling, Sally Ride, and more than 200 Nobel laureates among its membership.
Dr. Kalika’s recent research on dry needling to correct Genu Valgum (knock knees) was featured as an electronic poster exhibit at the 2024 European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology (ESSR) Congress. Dr. Kalika’s reputation as an expert in musculoskeletal ultrasonography and ultrasound-guided procedures is gaining traction among his peers in the international scientific community.
This intense 3 day workshop was one of the best and most comprehensive shoulder courses i ever attended. It was about how to treat failed shoulder surgery, why shoulder surgeries fail, which shoulder surgeries to avoid and how to examine post surgical shoulder with diagnostic ultrasound as well as how to direct your rehab or regenerative procedures by ultrasound. The team was a collection of some of the worlds most renowned orthopedic shoulder surgeons as well as top regenerative medicine practitioners who specialize in shoulder and scapular dyskenisis
In January 2024, Dr. Kalika participated as an assistant in the cadaver course at Sonoanatomy XVI, held at the University of Barcelona, home to one of the most advanced anatomy dissection research labs in the world. Many of the world’s premier sports medicine doctors hail from Spain, attracting elite athletes from across the English Premier League (EPL) seeking the world’s best sports injury rehab. The cadaver course featured Dr. Ingrid Moller, one of the world’s foremost anatomists.
Accurate gait assessment requires an in-depth understanding of the structure, function, and biomechanics of the lower extremities throughout the walking and running gait cycle. Dr. Kalika is always striving to enhance his knowledge and credentials, to offer patients the very best in personalized care, rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
The gait lab at NYDNRehab offers the most advanced technologies for assessing, correcting, and retraining walking and running gait, to optimize mobility for patients across a broad spectrum of needs. When combined with professional expertise, our gait lab is second to none in helping patients to walk and run without pain, and with a reduced risk of injury.
Level 2 Functional Gait Assessment is the latest addition to Dr. Kalika’s impressive array of professional certifications.
Dr. Kalika has been a pioneer in high-tech 3D gait analysis. Now, he has enhanced his credentials with a new certification as Functional Gait Specialist, applying the latest research in human gait mechanics.
Dr. Kalika is a certified Youth Editorial Board Member for TMR Non-Drug Therapy, and also sits on the editorial committees of multiple scientific journals.
Despite 10 years of experience with instrumented gait analysis, attending multiple running medicine conferences, certification in clinical biomechanics, and personal experience with Chris Powers, I decided to undertake this additional certification to ensure that no single detail concerning the assessment and treatment of running injuries escapes me.
Diane is one of the world leaders in physical therapy research. She is well published (books, chapters and journal articles). Her combined clinical and education experience culminated in the co-development of The Integrated Systems Model for Disability & Pain (ISM).
EXPERIENCE WORLD-CLASS NON-SURGICAL ORTHOPEDIC CARE IN MANHATTAN
Looking for New York’s leading expert in modern conservative orthopedics? You are in the right place. Led by Dr. Lev Kalika, a world-recognized clinician with 20+ years of experience, our practice specializes in dynamic functional ultrasonography, advanced sports medicine, and orthobiologics.
As the only clinician in New York certified by the ISMST to perform extracorporeal shockwave therapy, Dr. Kalika combines cutting-edge peer-reviewed research with personalized, non-surgical treatment plans to restore your movement and eliminate pain without surgery.
Dr. Lev Kalika, DC, RMSK, is the Clinical Director of NYDNRehab in New York City, where he focuses on the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of complex musculoskeletal disorders. His work combines advanced diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound, movement analysis, rehabilitation, and image-guided regenerative procedures to help patients whose conditions often remain unexplained despite conventional evaluation.
Early in his career, Dr. Kalika recognized that many patients were receiving treatments based primarily on MRI findings or generalized diagnoses rather than a precise understanding of the tissues generating their symptoms. That realization shaped the philosophy of his practice: accurate diagnosis must always come before treatment.
Today, he has dedicated his career to integrating high-resolution ultrasound imaging with biomechanics, rehabilitation science, fascia research, and orthobiologic medicine. Rather than viewing injuries as isolated problems, he believes that understanding how joints, muscles, fascia, nerves, and movement interact often reveals the true source of persistent pain and dysfunction.
Alongside clinical practice, Dr. Kalika is actively involved in research, peer review, and international education. He has authored scientific publications, serves as a reviewer for peer-reviewed medical journals, and is regularly invited to teach and lecture internationally on musculoskeletal ultrasound, shockwave therapy, fascia, and regenerative medicine. He considers teaching an extension of clinical practice—an opportunity to help advance standards of care while continually refining his own understanding through collaboration with colleagues worldwide.
Despite his academic involvement, Dr. Kalika’s primary passion remains patient care. Every patient presents a unique puzzle, and his goal is to identify the underlying cause of pain rather than simply manage symptoms. He believes that combining careful listening, meticulous examination, advanced imaging, and evidence-informed treatment offers the best opportunity for meaningful, lasting recovery.
At NYDNRehab, that philosophy guides every evaluation and every treatment plan: understand the problem first, then choose the least invasive approach most likely to restore function, improve movement, and help patients return to the activities that matter most.
Professional Memberships & Board Certifications
