What’s New at AOSMI
Chiropractic Care is Here
Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) is excited to announce the addition of Dr. Kristopher R. Tardio, a dedicated chiropractic physician, to our team. This addition enhances our commitment to providing patients with comprehensive, multi-disciplinary care, recognizing the vital role that chiropractic services play in a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health.
By integrating Dr. Tardio’s experience, AOSMI is better equipped to provide a full spectrum of care, helping patients achieve their health goals without always resorting to invasive procedures. His presence underscores our belief that the best patient outcomes are achieved through a coordinated, collaborative approach.
Meet Dr. Kristopher R. Tardio
With 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Tardio brings a seasoned, evidence-based approach to patient care. His specialized expertise in spinal biomechanics and non-surgical treatment offers a powerful complement to our traditional orthopedic services. His training—which includes extensive postgraduate education in advanced MRI spine interpretation and spinal biomechanical engineering—allows him to precisely diagnose and manage complex spinal conditions. This enables our practice to offer patients a wider range of treatment options, from conservative chiropractic care to collaboration on surgical planning, all under one roof.
As a full-body musculoskeletal specialist, Dr. Tardio is trained to evaluate and treat the entire kinetic chain—including the spine, joints, and extremities. He sees patients across the lifespan, treating individuals as young as 4 months old through adulthood. Many conditions often mistaken for migraines, such as cervicogenic headaches originating from the neck or upper back, respond extremely well to his care. He also frequently treats TMJ dysfunction, radicular symptoms, and provides neuromuscular re-education for balance issues and post-concussion support (non-diagnostic). His clinical skillset closely overlaps with physical therapy, allowing him to perform detailed musculoskeletal evaluations, provide manual and rehabilitative therapies, and even take the same physiotherapy board exams required of PTs.
Dr. Tardio earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic from the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic and is licensed in the state of New Jersey. He has a deep commitment to continuous learning, holding numerous certifications in areas such as orthopedic testing, spinal trauma, crash dynamics, and human performance. Patients also benefit from his ability to order MRI and X-ray imaging, supporting a more streamlined and efficient diagnostic process.
In addition to treating everyday musculoskeletal conditions, Dr. Tardio serves as a “quarterback for care” in complex cases—particularly motor vehicle accident (MVA) injuries, which he manages several times per week. His diagnostic capabilities mirror those of other musculoskeletal specialists, giving patients direct access to care without needing a referral or prescription.
Dr. Tardio will be seeing patients in our Belmar and Freehold offices.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kristopher Tardio, Chiropractic Physician, and take the next step in your care journey. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive orthopedic services.
More Room. More Innovation. The Same Trusted Orthopedic and Physical Therapy Team.
This December, AOSMI Monroe has expanded — moving to Suite 201 inside the Renaissance Crossing Medical Arts Building at 312 Applegarth Road, Monroe Township, NJ.
Our new facility spans over 5,000 square feet, featuring an expanded Physical Therapy Department, a larger Orthopedic Department, and a multi-specialty suite designed to better serve our patients’ orthopedic, sports medicine, and pain management needs.
A Next-Generation Space for Comprehensive Orthopedic Care
AOSMI’s new Monroe location reflects a commitment to continued innovation and patient comfort. The expanded space is designed to elevate every step of the patient journey, from check-in to rehabilitation.
Patients can look forward to:
- An expanded Physical Therapy Department equipped with advanced technology that supports recovery and movement restoration.
- A larger Orthopedic Department with additional treatment rooms for a more comfortable and efficient visit.
- A multi-specialty suite uniting orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians, and pain management specialists under one roof.
- A welcoming environment built around accessibility, innovation, and patient-centered design.
AOSMI’s Commitment to Patient Care and Innovation
This expansion represents a milestone in AOSMI’s mission to deliver comprehensive orthopedic and rehabilitative care within a collaborative, supportive setting.
As we move to our new facility, our trusted orthopedic and rehabilitation professionals remain dedicated to providing the same high-quality, compassionate care that patients have come to rely on.
FAQ: Monroe’s Move to Suite 201
Q: When will the new AOSMI Monroe facility open?
AOSMI Monroe is set to open its new Suite 201 location on Monday, December 8th, 2025.
Q: Will services or doctors change after the move?
No, the same trusted orthopedic, sports medicine, and rehabilitation specialists will continue to provide care at the new location.
Q: Will the contact numbers remain the same?
Yes, all phone numbers for the Orthopedic and Physical Therapy Departments will stay the same.
Physicians & Orthopedic Department: 732-720-2555
Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy Department: 732-720-2566
Q: Is parking available at the new facility?
Yes, convenient on-site parking is available at the Renaissance Crossing Medical Arts Building.
Visit Us in Suite 201 This December
Starting Monday, December 8th, patients can visit us at:
Renaissance Crossing Medical Arts Building
312 Applegarth Road, Suite 201
Monroe Township, NJ
Want to learn more?
Orthopedics Department: 732-720-2555
Rehabilitation Department: 732-720-2566
Contact Us to schedule your next appointment or learn more about our move.
Through education, research, and mentorship, Dr. Joseph Tauro proudly supports those who serve. His work in military orthopedic training reflects a shared mission — advancing surgical care for the men and women who protect our nation.
At the intersection of orthopedic innovation and national service, Dr. Tauro’s leadership in the Military Arthroscopy Surgical Training (MAST) program and his ongoing research in simulation-based education are helping strengthen military medical readiness while fostering collaboration between civilian and military surgeons.
Enhancing Surgical Readiness Through the MAST Program
For several years, Dr. Tauro has played an active role in the MAST Program, a multi-branch initiative dedicated to advancing arthroscopic and reconstructive surgical skills among military orthopedic surgeons.
Hands-On Training for Military Surgeons
Each year, MAST hosts an intensive four-day cadaveric lab that brings together specialists from the Army, Navy, and civilian medical communities. Participants engage in hands-on workshops using advanced arthroscopic instruments and minimally invasive techniques designed to improve precision and performance.
“It’s an honor to help train the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting ours,” said Dr. Tauro. “Their focus and commitment make teaching deeply rewarding.”
These programs not only sharpen surgical skills but also build partnerships that enhance military medical readiness and improve orthopedic care for active-duty service members and veterans.
Collaboration and Mentorship: Bridging Military and Medicine
Beyond MAST, Dr. Tauro contributes to residency and mentorship programs at military bases such as Fort Bragg and Walter Reed Hospital, where active-duty orthopedic surgeons work alongside experienced civilian physicians.
Partnership Through SOMOS
Through the Society of Military Orthopaedic Surgeons (SOMOS), these collaborations create powerful learning exchanges that strengthen the connection between academic medicine and the military’s mission of service.
“Education doesn’t just build technical skill — it builds confidence that improves the readiness of our soldiers”, Dr. Tauro shared.
AOSMI proudly supports these efforts and stands with the military medical community in advancing orthopedic excellence through shared knowledge, compassion, and innovation. We are proud to support efforts that expand orthopedic care for veterans through ongoing education, research, and collaboration with military medical professionals.
Advancing Orthopedic Education Through Simulation and Research
Dr. Tauro’s work extends beyond mentorship to groundbreaking research in surgical simulation and augmented reality (VR). His recent simulation comparison study, presented at MAST, evaluated multiple training models—from basic plastic simulators to immersive VR environments—to determine the best approach for teaching shoulder arthroscopy.
Combining Technology and Training
Early results suggest that combining multiple simulators provides the most comprehensive and effective training experience, offering surgeons the opportunity to master skills in both virtual and hands-on settings.
This work, currently under review for publication in the Journal of Arthroscopy, was developed in collaboration with the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) and SOMOS.
In addition, Dr. Tauro continues to study ACL reconstruction techniques and the use of biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance surgical recovery. These efforts reflect AOSMI’s mission to merge education, research, and innovation for the advancement of orthopedic care.
Why It Matters
Programs like MAST and mentorship initiatives across the country ensure that military orthopedic surgeons are equipped with the latest skills, techniques, and technologies. These collaborations ultimately benefit service members who depend on orthopedic care to recover from injuries sustained in training or duty.
By connecting academic research with real-world military practice, leaders like Dr. Joseph Tauro help support care for our armed forces and continues to evolve with precision, compassion, and purpose. AOSMI is honored to support these initiatives and stands committed to strengthening orthopedic education and readiness across all communities.
AOSMI’s Commitment to Our Military Community
At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifice of our nation’s military members. Through education, research, and compassionate care, our physicians proudly support initiatives that enhance the readiness and wellbeing of military medical professionals.
About Dr. Joseph Tauro
Dr. Tauro is certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and serves as a Master Instructor for the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA), where he sits on both the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
He is Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and a national lecturer on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgical techniques. His specialties include shoulder, hip, and knee procedures, joint preservation, cartilage transplantation, and the integration of augmented and virtual reality into orthopedic training.
Request an Appointment
If you’re seeking advanced orthopedic care, we invite you to visit Dr. Joseph Tauro at our Toms River office today. Our team proudly provides specialized, patient-centered orthopedic care — serving our local community and the military families who inspire us every day.
Call: (732)720-2555
Location: 9 Hospital Drive, Toms River, NJ 08755
*This blog from AOSMI is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patient outcomes vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care.
Celebrating AOSMI’s Honorees
At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI), patients across New Jersey have access to some of the region’s most respected orthopedic surgeons, podiatric physicians, and pain management specialists. Each year, Top Doctors are recognized for their clinical excellence, dedication to patients, and leadership in advancing musculoskeletal care.
We are proud to celebrate the AOSMI physicians named to the Top Doctors 2025 list. Their recognition reflects their ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care to communities across Freehold, Monroe Township, Toms River, Belmar, Manalapan and beyond.
Top Orthopedics Doctors
Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and fellowship-trained specialists are recognized for their expertise in advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
- Michael J. Greller, MD, MBA, CPE, FAAOS
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine - Gerardo Goldberger, DO, FAOAO
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon - Stacey Gallacher, MD, FAAOS
Board-Certified in Orthopedic Surgery | Fellowship Trained in Upper Extremity Surgery - Eric Buxbaum, DO
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship Trained in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery - Justin Elkrief, DO
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic Spine Surgery - Garret L. Sobol, MD, FAAOS
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine - Joseph Tauro, MD
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Top Pain Management Doctors
Our pain management specialists provide advanced, evidence-based care to help patients manage pain and improve function through individualized treatment plans tailored to their needs.
- Ali Valimahomed, MD, FAAPMR
Dual Board-Certified in Pain Medicine and Physical Medicine | ACGME Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine - Thomas A. Del Guercio, MD
Dual Board-Certified in Pain Medicine and Physical Medicine
Top Podiatry Doctors
Our podiatric specialists deliver high-quality care for foot and ankle conditions, serving patients throughout Central and Southern New Jersey.
- Alison DeWaters, DPM, FACFAS
Board-Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery - Wesley Nesbit, DPM
Podiatric Physician & Surgeon
Top Sports Medicine Doctors
- Arth Patel, MD, MPH
Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician | Board Certified in Family Medicine and Primary Care Sports Medicine
Top Hand Surgery Doctors
- Edward J. Armbruster, DO, MBA
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship Trained in Hand Surgery
Why This Recognition Matters
Being named a Top Doctor is more than an accolade. It reflects clinical excellence, dedication to patient well-being, and leadership within the medical community. At AOSMI, our physicians are proud to serve patients throughout New Jersey, bringing top-tier orthopedic, podiatry, hand & wrist and pain management care closer to home.
Schedule an Appointment
Congratulations to all of our Top Doctors!
Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute is proud to make nationally recognized care accessible to communities throughout New Jersey. To learn more about our physicians and services, explore our provider profiles or visit one of our convenient locations in Freehold, Monroe Township, Toms River, Belmar, or Manalapan.
Each year, Hand Therapy Week, championed by the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT), raises awareness about the vital role of hand therapy in improving lives. Hands are essential to everything we do—from working and creating to caring and connecting. At Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, we join the celebration by highlighting how our expert hand therapy services help patients regain strength, motion, and independence.
What is Hand Therapy and Why It’s Important
“Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb, which includes the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder girdle. It is the merging of occupational and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the structure of the upper limb with function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment, planning and treatment, hand therapists provide therapeutic intervention to prevent dysfunction, restore function and/or reverse the progression of pathology of the upper limb in order to enhance an individual’s ability to execute tasks and to participate fully in life situations.” Journal of Hand Therapy; 2009(22)361-376), ASHT Scope of Practice; 2011.
Hand Therapy Week encourages everyone to appreciate the healing power of skilled therapy and take proactive steps toward hand health.
How Our Hand Therapy Services Support Your Recovery
Leah Rubino, MS, OTR, CHT, CLT-LANA, our hand therapist provides personalized, goal-oriented treatment plans designed to:
- Restore mobility and strength after surgery or injury with customized exercises and splinting
- Manage nerve and tendon injuries to relieve pain and improve function
- Reduce swelling to enhance comfort, promote motion, and reduce complications
- Provide arthritis care focused on reducing pain and preserving hand function
- Support return to work and daily activities through adaptive strategies and therapeutic guidance
These services align with the standards promoted by ASHT, emphasizing patient education, evidence-based practice, and compassionate care.
Why Hand Therapy at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute?
We understand that each hand injury or condition is unique. That’s why our therapists develop individualized treatment approaches tailored to your lifestyle and goals. With state-of-the-art techniques and ongoing education, we aim to maximize your recovery and help you return to the activities you love.
Meet Leah Rubino, Certified Hand Therapist
Leah Rubino is an experienced occupational therapist with dual board certification, as a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) and Lymphology Association of North America Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT-LANA). Her expertise and compassionate care ensure patients receive the highest level of personalized treatment, helping them regain optimal hand function and improve their quality of life.
Celebrate Hand Therapy Week by Prioritizing Your Hand Health
If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or weakness in your hands or wrists, now is the time to seek help. Discover how our hand therapy program can support your recovery. Visit our Occupational and Hand Therapy page to learn more or schedule an appointment.