Where Southern Steps Began

Southern Steps Home Physical Therapy was created around a simple belief: people heal best at home, with a therapist who truly cares about their well-being.

My name is Mike Zagare, PT, and for nearly two decades I’ve helped older adults regain strength, improve balance, reduce pain, and stay independent. My journey to creating Southern Steps didn’t begin with a business plan—it began with years of seeing what seniors really need to thrive.

Why In-Home Care Matters

Early in my career, while working in outpatient orthopedics and later in patients’ homes, I noticed a common challenge. Many seniors felt overwhelmed by the healthcare system. They were rushed through appointments, switched between multiple therapists, and often left feeling unsure about their progress.

For many, traveling to a clinic wasn’t just difficult—it was nearly impossible.

But when therapy happened inside their home, everything changed. Patients felt safer, more relaxed, and more confident. Their progress improved because their environment felt familiar and supportive. These experiences shaped the vision for Southern Steps.

Experience That Shaped Our Practice

Before moving to Upstate South Carolina, I spent years treating seniors in their homes in New York. I worked with chronic pain conditions, orthopedic recovery, Parkinson’s disease using LSVT techniques, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Over time, I learned that the best therapy happens when the therapist truly knows the patient—when there is time to listen, connect, and tailor care to daily life.

When life brought me to Greenville, I knew exactly what kind of practice I wanted to build: a warm, down-to-earth, in-home physical therapy service focused on personalized treatment and genuine human connection.

The Meaning Behind “Southern Steps”

The name reflects exactly who we are and how we help.

Southern represents the warmth, hospitality, and kindness of the Upstate community—values we bring into every home.

Steps reflects the journey of healing. One exercise. One moment of confidence. One safe step forward. Progress doesn’t happen all at once. It happens gradually, with guidance, support, and encouragement.

How We Care for Our Patients

When you choose Southern Steps, you will receive care from me or a licensed physical therapist who follows the same compassionate, one-therapist model. You will not see a new face every week. You will not be rushed. You will not be treated with a generic program.

Your therapist will take time to understand your goals, your challenges, and your home environment so your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to you.

We focus on balance training, fall prevention, mobility restoration, strength building, pain reduction, and post-surgical recovery. Our mission is to help you stay independent, steady, and confident in your everyday surroundings.

Worried about fall risks? Start with our Free Home Safety Check

home physical therapist treating patient

A Little About Me

Outside of physical therapy, I enjoy weather watching, spending time with my cats, attending business and personal development workshops, and exploring the Greenville community.

I bring curiosity, patience, and genuine care into every home—and every therapist who represents Southern Steps is chosen with those same values in mind.

My National Provider Identifier 1063636652

mike zagare at home physical therapist Greenville south Carolina

Why Southern Steps Exists

Southern Steps is more than a physical therapy service. It is a way to honor seniors—the people who built our families, our communities, and our lives.

If you or a loved one needs Medicare-covered in-home physical therapy in Greenville or the surrounding Upstate areas, we would be honored to support you.

Call or text (864) 528-6402 to get started.