5+++ Stars. Nine years ago, I came across Encinitas Physical Therapy and gave them a try. I'd been to dozens of physical therapists and multiple physical therapy modalities and programs over a number of years with minimal improvement in mobility and functionality. (I have moderate to severe disc disease, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, related postural restrictions and deformities, polyneurapathy and chest muscle issues related to a heart surgery and lung disease).
I still go there for treatment.The results have been quite remarkable. MRIs taken 7 years apart show no progression in spinal deterioration, which would normally be expected; spirometry tests have not show further deterioration of my lung capacity, despite COPD being a progressive disease. My posture has improved significantly: head tilt improved by about 15 degrees and standing more erect. Mobility improvement has been substantial. When I first went to Encinitas Physical Therapy, I had difficulty looking to the side while driving. I now can swivel my head to look out the rear window. My back muscles are unfrozen for the first time in 30 years allowing me to self-adjust my spine and back muscles.
There are several specific reasons why therapy at Encinitas Physical Therapy has worked far better than any of my other experiences:
1. Manual Manipulation (also known as Manual Therapy). This therapeutic approach, of which there are only a small number of skilled practitioners, primarily uses manual manipulation of muscles to achieve desired results. It is unlike the physical therapy most people have experienced. Think "massage" - but by someone who has exceptional knowledge of musculature and techniques for resolving physical challenges. For me, it's been way more effective than exercises, rubber bands and other various techniques to which my body has been subjected.
2. Personal Attention. A highly skilled therapist works with you for the duration of your appointment. Unlike common physical therapy practices, you're not turned over to a PT assistant for part of the session. Total focus and concentration is on you and your needs.
3. Exclusively Physical Therapists. There is no potential conflict of interest in patient care here, unlike doctor- and hospital-owned facilities.
4. Gifted, Skilled and Experienced Therapists.
Neil Sturman, owner of Encinitas Physical Therapy, is recognized within the physical therapy professional community as a practitioner with extraordinary knowledge of a broad range of techniques/modalities and years of experience in their application. He's simply brilliant. Neil's also quite good at telling jokes from an amazing repertoire of decent-to-hilarious material.
Michelle Sturman, related to Neil by marriage and co-parentage of two lovely children, is remarkably intuitive in visualizing a client's musculature and the location of barriers to normal function that need attention. She's had specialized training in manual manipulation methods. Michelle is also an expert in Harry Potter. Knows every detail of the entire story. Also quite familiar with dragons.
Darren Mallinson, a long-time staff PT, is an expert in techniques to improve mobility. He's done great work with my shoulders and detected a bone spur that required subsequent medical attention; also made a major contribution to "unfreezing" my back muscles (a multi-year project) and improving my posture and head tilt. Darren climbs mountains. Climbed Mount Everest. He and his gem of a wife, Katie, plan on climbing Machu Picchu this year. Probably could use physical therapy when they come back from Neil or Michelle.
These are wonderful, empathetic people who really care about each client and his/her progress. read more
