Local Business Spotlight: Skillz Physical Therapy

This Patch article is sponsored by Skillz Physical Therapy.

Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Aime Maranan, Founder & Lead Licensed physical Therapist, of Skillz Physical Therapy.

Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization:
Aime Maranan: At Skillz Physical Therapy, we do things differently. We’re not your typical clinic, we’re a Recovery Studio built for results. Based in Evanston, we just celebrated 5 years of helping local residents get out of pain, move better, and feel like themselves again. We’re known for getting the right diagnosis, delivering faster relief, and creating clear plans that work, even for people who’ve tried PT before without success. Led by a founder with over 16 years of clinical experience, we use tools like laser therapy, shockwave, and guided recovery plans to deliver care that’s focused, personal, and effective. Whether you're active, retired, or struggling with back pain or TMJ, Skillz offers a better way to heal, with clarity and care.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?
Aime Maranan: 5 years. We just celebrated our 5-year anniversary on July 12th, 2025

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?
Aime Maranan: I’ve always been drawn to helping people regain their strength, movement, and confidence. Not just physically, but mentally as well. Early in my career, I saw how many people were misdiagnosed, rushed through treatment, or left feeling like just another number. That never sat right with me. I became a physical therapist to change that. I wanted to offer a different kind of care that is focused, thoughtful, and actually gets results. After years of working in various settings, I launched Skillz Physical Therapy to bring that vision to life. Since then, we’ve helped hundreds of people in Evanston and the North Shore get back to living fully with less pain, more movement, and more confidence.

Patch: What's the most common piece of advice you give to customers?
Aime Maranan: Don’t wait. If something feels off in your body, get it checked early. Too many people hope pain will go away on its own or wait until it affects their sleep, movement, or mood. The sooner you start the right treatment, the faster and more complete your recovery will be. You don’t need a referral to start physical therapy. You just need the right place and the right plan.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?
Aime Maranan: Seeing the moment a patient realizes they’re finally getting better. Especially those who came to us after months of frustration or misdiagnosis. Watching someone walk in with pain, uncertainty, or fear and leave with hope, movement, and confidence again, that’s what makes it all worth it. Knowing we played a part in helping someone take their life back is the most rewarding feeling there is.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?
Aime Maranan: We’re not a volume-based clinic. At Skillz, our focus is on correct diagnosis, faster recovery, and real results. Many of our patients come to us after trying physical therapy elsewhere and not improving. What sets us apart is our ability to identify what others missed, use advanced treatments like laser and shockwave when needed, and create recovery plans that actually work. We don’t just treat symptoms, we fix the problem and teach our patients how to stay better long term.