Meet the Team
Sal Martella
Owner & CPO
I love doing what I do because I get to help people reach their ultimate goal of living their lives to the fullest once again. Watching patients exceed even their own expectations is a mesmerizing experience.
Sal Martella is the President and Co-Founder of Progressive O&P, Inc., a role he has proudly held since 1999. As the senior practitioner, Sal is known for his unwavering dedication to patient care and his focus on achieving meaningful, lasting outcomes. He takes the time to understand each patient’s goals, challenges, and daily life, ensuring every solution enhances mobility, independence, and quality of life.
An American Board Certified Prosthetist since 1995 and Orthotist since 1996, Sal earned his Bachelor of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics from Florida International University. He remains an active member of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and consistently incorporates the latest advancements in prosthetic and orthotic technologies into his practice.
Sal specializes in both prosthetic and orthotic care, providing individualized solutions using today’s most advanced technologies, including energy-responsive components, microprocessor-controlled systems, and innovative suspension methods. Known for his approachable, collaborative style, he works closely with surgeons, therapists, patients, and families to deliver comprehensive care that supports both immediate needs and long-term goals.
A lifelong fitness enthusiast, Sal brings a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system to his work, enhancing his ability to evaluate complex cases and provide thoughtful, effective care. His combination of technical expertise, clinical skill, and genuine compassion continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of his patients.
An American Board Certified Prosthetist since 1995 and Orthotist since 1996, Sal earned his Bachelor of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics from Florida International University. He remains an active member of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and consistently incorporates the latest advancements in prosthetic and orthotic technologies into his practice.
Sal specializes in both prosthetic and orthotic care, providing individualized solutions using today’s most advanced technologies, including energy-responsive components, microprocessor-controlled systems, and innovative suspension methods. Known for his approachable, collaborative style, he works closely with surgeons, therapists, patients, and families to deliver comprehensive care that supports both immediate needs and long-term goals.
A lifelong fitness enthusiast, Sal brings a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system to his work, enhancing his ability to evaluate complex cases and provide thoughtful, effective care. His combination of technical expertise, clinical skill, and genuine compassion continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of his patients.
Abe Mathews
CPO
My favorite saying is “Make it Happen”. No matter what patient scenario comes my way – I usually say “I will make it happen” for you.
Abe brings both technical expertise and genuine compassion to every patient he works with. With a background in engineering, he approaches each case with a thoughtful, problem-solving mindset—but what truly sets him apart is his ability to connect with people. Abe is known for going above and beyond, taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, challenges, and daily life so he can create solutions that truly make a difference.
While he specializes in pediatrics, Abe has extensive orthotic experience working with a wide range of patients, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, early intervention needs, lower extremity weaknesses, and other congenital conditions, as well as individuals in sports medicine and rehabilitation. He provides care for all pediatric amputees, guiding children back to activities so they can keep pace with their peers. He builds strong, lasting relationships not only with his patients, but also with their families, offering guidance, reassurance, and support throughout the entire care process.
Abe works closely with surgeons, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a collaborative, well-rounded approach to treatment. His ability to coordinate across care teams helps deliver the best possible outcomes for each individual.
Abe has been an American Board Certified Prosthetist since 1998 and an American Board Certified Orthotist since 1999. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the New York Institute of Technology in 1995 and was accepted into Drexel University’s Master’s program in Biomedical Engineering before entering the Newington Certificate Program in Orthotics & Prosthetics in 1996.
He is a member of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists, and works with today’s most advanced prosthetic technologies, including microprocessor-controlled systems, dynamic response components, and innovative suspension designs. By combining clinical expertise with cutting-edge technology, Abe creates customized solutions that support mobility, independence, and long-term success for his patients.
While he specializes in pediatrics, Abe has extensive orthotic experience working with a wide range of patients, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, early intervention needs, lower extremity weaknesses, and other congenital conditions, as well as individuals in sports medicine and rehabilitation. He provides care for all pediatric amputees, guiding children back to activities so they can keep pace with their peers. He builds strong, lasting relationships not only with his patients, but also with their families, offering guidance, reassurance, and support throughout the entire care process.
Abe works closely with surgeons, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a collaborative, well-rounded approach to treatment. His ability to coordinate across care teams helps deliver the best possible outcomes for each individual.
Abe has been an American Board Certified Prosthetist since 1998 and an American Board Certified Orthotist since 1999. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the New York Institute of Technology in 1995 and was accepted into Drexel University’s Master’s program in Biomedical Engineering before entering the Newington Certificate Program in Orthotics & Prosthetics in 1996.
He is a member of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists, and works with today’s most advanced prosthetic technologies, including microprocessor-controlled systems, dynamic response components, and innovative suspension designs. By combining clinical expertise with cutting-edge technology, Abe creates customized solutions that support mobility, independence, and long-term success for his patients.
Rob Von Bargen
CPO
It’s a privilege to spend my days interacting with patients, learning their stories and creating prosthetic solutions that empower them to live their best best lives regardless of their age.
Rob’s path into prosthetics began with a strong foundation in movement and performance. While earning his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a focus on Fitness Development from SUNY Cortland, he was also a member of the football team. During this time, he worked closely with skilled speed and agility trainers, deepening his understanding of the human body and how it performs. A summer internship with his uncle, who owned an O&P practice in California, ultimately sparked his passion for prosthetics and set him on his career path.
Rob began his journey with Progressive O&P as a lab assistant while still in college, steadily working his way up to the fabrication team through dedication and hard work. His talent and commitment quickly stood out, earning him a full-time role as a fabrication technician. Motivated to expand his clinical impact, Rob went on to earn his Master’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics from the University of Hartford, followed by his residency at Progressive O&P. He became an American Board Certified Prosthetist and Orthotist in the fall of 2017.
Today, Rob is experienced in working with advanced prosthetic technologies, including microprocessor-controlled lower extremity systems, upper extremity myoelectric and body powered prosthetics, and high-performance prosthetic components designed to improve mobility, stability, and function. He has a strong background in both fabrication and clinical care, allowing him to thoughtfully design and fit devices that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and lifestyle.
What truly sets Rob apart is his ability to connect with his patients. He takes the time to understand their stories, goals, and challenges, ensuring that every solution supports not just mobility, but confidence and independence. By combining technical expertise with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Rob helps individuals achieve meaningful outcomes and live their lives to the fullest.
Rob began his journey with Progressive O&P as a lab assistant while still in college, steadily working his way up to the fabrication team through dedication and hard work. His talent and commitment quickly stood out, earning him a full-time role as a fabrication technician. Motivated to expand his clinical impact, Rob went on to earn his Master’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics from the University of Hartford, followed by his residency at Progressive O&P. He became an American Board Certified Prosthetist and Orthotist in the fall of 2017.
Today, Rob is experienced in working with advanced prosthetic technologies, including microprocessor-controlled lower extremity systems, upper extremity myoelectric and body powered prosthetics, and high-performance prosthetic components designed to improve mobility, stability, and function. He has a strong background in both fabrication and clinical care, allowing him to thoughtfully design and fit devices that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and lifestyle.
What truly sets Rob apart is his ability to connect with his patients. He takes the time to understand their stories, goals, and challenges, ensuring that every solution supports not just mobility, but confidence and independence. By combining technical expertise with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Rob helps individuals achieve meaningful outcomes and live their lives to the fullest.
Melissa Antonucci
LCSW-R
My goal is to help people become the strongest, most resilient, and authentic version of themselves.
Melissa Antonucci has been an integral member of the Progressive O&P professional staff for over a decade, bringing a unique and compassionate perspective as the first Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated exclusively to an Orthotics and Prosthetics practice on Long Island.
Throughout her career, Melissa has provided support and guidance to individuals facing a wide range of diagnoses and life challenges. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and has extensive experience assisting individuals affected by stroke, brain cancer, neurological disorders, limb loss, and substance use disorders.
Melissa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland in 1997 and her Master of Social Work from New York University in 1999. Over the years, she has worked within major healthcare systems, independent agencies, and successfully provides outpatient clinical therapy.
With more than 25 years of experience in social work, Melissa is deeply committed to helping her patients navigate life’s most challenging moments. She believes in standing alongside those she serves, offering strength, advocacy, and unwavering support during times of crisis.
Throughout her career, Melissa has provided support and guidance to individuals facing a wide range of diagnoses and life challenges. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and has extensive experience assisting individuals affected by stroke, brain cancer, neurological disorders, limb loss, and substance use disorders.
Melissa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland in 1997 and her Master of Social Work from New York University in 1999. Over the years, she has worked within major healthcare systems, independent agencies, and successfully provides outpatient clinical therapy.
With more than 25 years of experience in social work, Melissa is deeply committed to helping her patients navigate life’s most challenging moments. She believes in standing alongside those she serves, offering strength, advocacy, and unwavering support during times of crisis.