There are no words to explain how much Paul's Lightforce laser plus shock wave treatments have helped me. Life changing! I had severe pain in wrist, golfer's elbow, general arm pain plus back pain and the combo of medical grade laser and shock wave treatments has been been so effective that I actually walked out with no pain multiple times and now can manage the pain. The more we did it the longer it would stick and Paul so generously treated me in small windows of time that I had while in the country. I have been dealing with severe chronic pain for decades. This gem of a place is truly healing and Paul's vast experience unbeatable bordering on wizardry. Plus, the big bonus is its one block from the beach with sea breezes coming into this magic beach shack turned occupational therapy spot. Paul and his whole team are great. A shout out to AJ for his post TFCC wrist surgery OT- and Mary for always getting me into appointments. Anyone is fortunate to go to this place but finding a non-medication solution to chronic pain is a needle in a haystack, so don't walk, run! read more

I've seen many therapists over the years, but Paul at Hands On OT stands out as exceptional. He is knowledgeable, caring, friendly, and completely trustworthy. What truly sets him apart is his whole-body approach--he doesn't just treat the immediate injury, but understands how everything is connected. I originally came in with sprained fingers, which was a major issue for me as a writer. Paul not only helped them heal, but also identified underlying issues in my hips and elsewhere that were affecting my movement. Using a wide range of tools and techniques, he consistently knows exactly what will help. Each session leaves me with less pain, a clearer understanding of the root causes, and practical exercises that support continued healing between visits. If you're looking for an occupational therapist who combines deep expertise with genuine compassion, I can't recommend Paul highly enough. I'm very grateful I found him. read more

After dealing with incompetence and lack of attention to detail after elbow surgery from my doctor's office, I began to lose faith in an already broken system. I had to advocate for myself to be able to obtain Occupational Therapy for weeks.. When I thought I couldnt take it anymore, Mary the office manager for Hands on OT finally showed up as a person that took their job and responsibility seriously! She actually helped a desperate patient to figure out what needed to be done, and she took initiative and ownership of the situation! Wow! What a concept! A person that cares about the patient and actually tries to help instead of waiting for the patient to lose HIS patience and give up! Bravo to Mary. read more

Paul at Hands on OT is truly one of the kindest and most genuine healthcare professionals I've worked with. From the beginning, he took the time to really listen and understand what I was going through. You can tell he genuinely cares about his patients and is deeply committed to helping them get better. He has a great balance of honesty and motivation. He's straightforward about the work that needs to be done, but he encourages you in a way that makes you feel supported every step of the way. His calm energy also makes you feel heard and immediately puts you at ease. The entire environment here is also incredibly warm and welcoming. The therapists clearly know each other well and have real relationships with one another, which creates such a positive and supportive atmosphere. You can feel that sense of community the moment you walk in. If you're looking for a hand therapist who is knowledgeable, patient and truly invested in your recovery, Paul is someone you'll be very grateful to work with. read more

Highly recommend this practice! Following surgery for a fractured scaphoid bone in my wrist, my surgeon referred me to Hands On OT. I was assigned to work with Lori, who was excellent -- experienced, knowledgeable and informative. She helped me improve my strength, flexibility, and movement in my hand/wrist/fingers, using heat, exercises, and cold. I went 2x/week for several months before eventually tapering down to 1x/week. I kept requesting my doctor's office renew my OT order because I found the guidance there so helpful, and the atmosphere so friendly. (All the staff seemed equally caring and skillful.) Note: This small homey office is located in a converted ground floor apartment of a vintage 2-story apartment building (about a block from the Santa Monica beach, south of Pico Blvd.) I was always able to find a metered parking space within about a 5-min walk for my apointments (Mon-Thur afternoons.) read more

I really want to like this place. My finger hurts and I like the therapist Dr. Laura. I want to get better. My situation is unusual; I have allergies to dogs. I am getting allergy shots, and carry an inhalar. Today I went for my first visit and evaluation. There were two dogs in the same room with me even though I stated that I could not be in the same room with dogs. During the entire time I spent there (one hour) those two dogs remained and were still lthere when I left. No One really cared. The dogs were allowed to stay in the same room with me. I had a raging headache and felt un-well when I left. I will not be able to go to a clinic that allows dogs to be in the same room with me. It is not worth getting sick. read more

This place is recommended to me by my hand surgeon who says that Paul was the best hand therapist. I had a problem for years where I couldn't play piano for more than a few minutes without pain. Paul utilized a new technology called focused shockwave therapy which broke up the scar tissue in my hand and yielded an immediate improvement. Over time I was able to get back to playing professionally again and I am not limited by my hand injury anymore. I cannot strongly recommend this place enough or the shockwave therapy. read more

Hands On OT - Focused shockwave machine - Occupational Therapy Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Hands On OT does not deserve any starts for the following reasons: 1. Failure to Respond to Calls in a Timely Manner I left multiple messages for this business but never received a call back. It took me an entire week to reach a real person on the phone. 2. Reduced Value of Services Each session is scheduled for 30 minutes. However, the therapist often starts 2-5 minutes late due to arriving late or not being prepared. Sessions frequently end 2-5 minutes early, further reducing the actual treatment time. During the available 20 minutes, the therapist is often distracted, checking their laptop instead of fully focusing on treatment. 3. Fraudulent Inducement & Misrepresentation Before starting services, I was never informed that there would be a charge. In fact, I was repeatedly assured that my account had a $0 balance. However, a year later, I suddenly received a bill with only one week's notice to pay. The bill was labeled as a "Final Notice" with a threat of collection if unpaid. 4. Unsolicited Pressure to Use Services I received solicitation calls and text messages urging me to book services even when I was not ready or had no further need for treatment. 5. Unfair Business Practices Patients are told they will be charged a $75 fee for cancellations. However, the business cancels appointments at the last minute without prior notice or compensation to the patient. Conclusion For the best interest of patients, I strongly recommend thoroughly researching this business before committing to their services. read more

Paul and his team have been exceptional and I'm so blessed I found them. I've been suffering from a stubborn and complex golfer's elbow that would not go away. I went to three different P.T.s for a year where we tried all sorts of rehab including Blood Flow Restriction but nothing worked. I then tried a Neuromuscular Therapist, acupuncture, a cortisone injection, PRP, and finally surgery. Sadly, the pain returned to where it was prior to surgery and I had lost hope until I started working with Paul, who is the most caring and kind therapist I've ever had. It wasn't until we started using Shockwave Therapy that I finally found some relief and was able to start playing tennis frequently again. The Shockwave treatments are quick and so worth it if you have a nagging injury that just won't seem to go away. Thank you for everything! read more

Paul GERSTENFELD OT, was tremendously helpful. He's patient, creative, and thinks outside the box. He made me a very comfortable thumb brace so that I could cut flowers without pain. He also made me finger braces so I can paint. After a long hike over a week and painting a couple of new paintings, I suddenly developed pain in my thumbs that spread to my fingers. I went to two other OT who were pretty worthless and we're not able to do anything to allow me to do the things I like to do. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with a autoimmune disease, which is why I have pain in my hands. Although I am stuck with what I have I'm very glad I met Paul at Hands On OT. Paul is great and I highly recommend him. read more

All the OTs are fantastic! I've been very impressed with the pain relief I've felt after every session!

There isn't enough words for me to write down and express my appreciation for this team of people! Lori, Paul and MJ. My Story begins in January 2023 with a serious injury in my bicep tendon on my left arm. for a full year now I'm coming down to this wonderful place( hands on OT) at least twice a week and from not being able to hold a cup of coffee to a place that I can do so many push-ups, swimming and a lot more. I can't say enough how grateful I am to find such a wonderful professional caring therapists. from day one there was a Feeling of- we wouldn't let you go until you completely heal :) I will definitely recommend for any person that feels pain or any disability to come and try their methods I know that this place and the outstanding therapists will stay with me in my heart forever there is not enough words to describe how grateful and thankful I am thank you Lori Thank you Paul For this unbelievable healing Journey Im back in the game as the pictures tell read more

Hands On OT - Occupational Therapy Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

I cannot recommend this place highly enough!! I would give them 10 stars if I could. The exceptionally knowledgeable, well-trained and very caring therapists have been nothing short of miracle workers - especially the owner, Paul. I have been going to this place since 2019 when I had my first hand surgery. Then I had a second hand surgery and now my neck and shoulder are being treated due to a car accident. I have worked with every therapist there. They are ALL THE BEST. I can assure anyone who read the negative reviews that Paul had an extremely difficult time getting good front office staff for a while but that is over. In all my 6 years, I have never had a problem with booking or billing. Mary and the current front office staff are top notch! I promise that you will not be disappointed. read more

These occupational therapists, operating out of a house in Santa Monica (by the beach) may be good therapists, but the office does not return calls, which is a deal-breaker in my book. read more

After a long-suffering injury which resulted in severe tennis elbow and torn arm tendon, i had almost given up. Physical therapy had not helped. Fortunately my orthopedist said hand therapy would be more beneficial, and enter Hands On OT. The therapists were highly skilled and caring. Their treatments, exercises and education with helpful tips and exercises to do at home were invaluable. The progress was rapid, and after 6 weeks I have totally recovered. The staff are all friendly, welcoming and caring. The delightful quaint beach setting is an added bonus! read more

I have had a lingering pulley injury on my ring finger for almost two years now from regularly rock climbing. Went to multiple PTs, OTs, and finger specialists before going to Hands On OT. I regularly see Paul and he's been the most helpful by far! I had minimal progress with everyone else, but Paul's use of shockwave therapy made a huge difference after several treatments, and I can finally climb with ease again. I have also had sessions MJ and EJ, and everyone there has been very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend to anyone needing OT read more

I had a hand surgery and my working hand ring finger was not mobile. Paul and his amazing team were able to work their magic and get my finger back to working in full function in two weeks! They provided thorough and fun hand/finger exercises, helpful tools/gadgets, and most importantly uplifted my spirits. The office is so cute, you feel like you're at home, and the place carries such great vibes because of the people involved. Thank you again! :)) read more

Wasted my time giving me the runaround for a week saying they were trying to verify my insurance, which does not take that long. I work with insurance companies. I would not give these people your business. They will waste your time and slow down your recovery. read more

Terrible place. I tried calling to make an appointment, when no one answered the first time I left a voicemail. No response. When I tried calling again I was told I would get a call back, and never did. This was 2 weeks ago, I need care, not the runaround. read more

I had a great experience. The staff was professional and friendly. My therapist, Paul, was a true expert and explained things in a way that was easy to understand. I came in with a wrist injury and walked out pain free with easy to follow instructions for care. Be sure to ask about the Chattanooga machine that thing is like magic. read more

I had the worst experience I have ever had with a medical provider at Hands On OT. It took two weeks of calling everyday just to get an initial appointment. No one answers the phone there - they finally texted me. I then filled out extensive paper work online and submitted everything. I was told in a text that my appointment was for 1:30. I arrived at 1:15 and could not figure out how to get into the building. Someone out on the street showed me but I apparently entered through the wrong door. I was reprimanded for coming in the wrong door and then asked to re fill out all the paperwork. The OT scheduled to see me then told the front desk to have me come in to see him as I was "late for my appointment." When I asked him what was going on, he said my appointment was for 1:00. It was now 1:25. They took NO RESPONSIBILITY for giving me the wrong appointment time and made no effort to make me feel welcome or cared about. I left with no treatment after working hard to get treatment for over 8 months with my doctor. They were unkind and refused to answer my texts regarding the situation. They ignored me. read more

There aren't enough stars I can give this place. Paul, Delilah and the entire staff are so warm and welcoming. Paul took me on as a new client and is helping me work through a torn ligament in my thumb from a car accident. I feel so taken care of by the knowledgeable OT's working there. I highly recommend this place to anyone who has any hand related injury. They are the BEST! read more

I injured my hand last March, while working. Completely severing the tendons in my index and middle finger on my dominant hand. UGH Dealing with workers Comp and a therapist from another practice has really been a headache so I'm glad I found Hands On OT. They're really proactive in correcting the other therapists mistakes as well as working with my Workers Comp Adjuster & the Dr. that performed my surgery. The environment is really clean & friendly and I highly recommend them to anyone in need of Occupational therapy. read more

this place was the nicest place I've ever gone...Physical therapy isn't always the "thing" you want to do...but It was an absolute pleasure and great break from my day to day to visit Paul and his team. It's in a cute little grenn SM retrofitted bungalow house. And as soon as you walk in everyone is super friendly and nice...Plus they are very professional, on schedule and good at what they do!!! I had a nasty dog bite on my hand and they helped me recoup totally. if you must have any upper body PT this is the spot. read more

This is the best hand clinic ever. Paul is great and helped me keep my job. If it wasn't for him, I don't know where I would be. The staff is great and the facility is clean and open. How could you go wrong getting hand therapy walking distance from the beach? read more

This place is really great. I had De Quervain's tendonitis surgery on my right hand through workers comp. and they have been really caring and helpful. Paul and Min take their time listening to me and treating my hand. I never have to wait around for my appointments and I never feel rushed through the therapy. I also like the parking. I can always find meter parking but sometimes I can get lucky with 2 hour free residential parking. I'll drive out there a few minutes early, get a coffee on main street and after my pt I like to walk down to the beach. I look forward to my pt instead of dreading it and that's enough of a reason to give them 5 stars. read more

Receiving excellent care here after Carpal Tunnel surgery. Small quarters, but Quaint and friendly atmosphere!

Jordan is a pleasure to work with and he worked wonders on my healing wrist. Paul is super nice and it's a generally pleasant atmosphere!

Hands on OT is a wonderful place to go! The people there are very nice and cater to your every need. I came in needing PT after surgery for my broken elbow. Having a broken elbow is painful and discouraging because it takes so long to fully heel and the progress is slow. If it wasn't for Paul's positive and warm attitude and his expertise on the arm/hand, this recovery process would have been extremely frustrating for me. Instead, I always look forward to my appointments. I have been working with Paul for 5months and I always leave my once a week appointments extremely happy. He is friendly, empathetic and genuinely caring towards your every needs whether emotional or physical. I wholeheartedly recommend this PT place!! read more

Hands On OT - Paul made these molds for my broken elbow! He even made me one in pink! Hands on OT is the greatest! - Occupational Therapy Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

Wonderful staff and therapists that helped me with my arthritic fingers and made me two splints for my fingers. Educated me on how to relieve pain and gave me exercises and explained to me what was happening to my fingers and what to do about it. read more

Hands on OT is such a small business family! Everyone is so warm, welcoming and professional. I had some pretty breakthrough visits where I gained back motion in my arm. Can't recommend them enough! read more

I've been coming here for over 4 months to recover from a hand injury and I honestly wouldn't want to be going anywhere else. Paul and Jamie are great therapists and have helped me so much in my path to healing. The staff is warm and accommodating. The space is clean, simple, professional and comfortable. I even feel comfortable enough to bring my baby with me. Great place to get your healing on! read more

This is my second time breaking my wrist (first time going to OT here) and I can't preface how incredible and helpful the staff is here! Every single person is so kind and it feels like a family environment. I highly recommend! read more

I've seen my share of Therapists in my life but Hands On OT brings you into a family setting. What a great experience.

If you are looking for a place to not only get through the PT/OT part of healing but actually enjoy it, this is it. Level of care is outstanding, all of the staff so professional and knowledgable, and the vibe is so laid back and friendly and fun. Also love the beach cottage it is in. Not a sterile medical building. Made the whole experience great for my 11 year old, even though it's not specifically geared to kids. Bonus they take my insurance (Oscar). read more

I went for hand therapy to this location when the business was owned by someone else and I wasn't half as pleased as I am now. Paul Gerstenfeld, Hands On OT's owner, who is also the hand therapist, is, in fact (no pun intended) totally hands on. Instead of feeling like I was on an assembly line, I now feel more catered to (who doesn't love that?!) by someone who is clearly knowledgeable in his field, and, as importantly, who puts his clients first. That may sound like a cliche, but it's nice to see it in action, especially in the medical field. One warning: If you've never had hand therapy, it may at first be surprising -- and even a little disconcerting - to find yourself sitting around a table in a room sharing space with one (or rarely, 2) other persons who are concurrently receiving therapy. Apparently, though, hand therapy facilities are set up for a choice between this kind of arrangement and tiny "private" cubicles. Instead of the latter, Hands On OT features a horseshoe-shaped table which Paul moves around with the affable ease of the bartender in "Cheers". He is kind and good-hearted and not just in it for the buck. Instead of dreading my appointments (which I used to do) I actually don't mind going anymore. Since Paul took over the business, they're even kind of fun! read more

Paul and Dalia are two of the most wonderful people you'll encounter! I finished therapy at Hands On OT at the recommendation of Dr. John T. Knight around mid-March. I went for about 6 months for Carpal Tunnel, Tendonitis, and a small tear in my tendon. I loved every appointment and I can honestly say, I miss seeing Paul and Dalia three times a week. I've been to therapy for my knee in the past, and that experience was not very enjoyable. Paul is very knowledgable and has a great sense of humor, so it creates a wonderful atmosphere. And his creativity for creating wrist braces is more than impressive. The brace he made for me allows me to use my hand freely, while feeling supported. Without it, I wouldn't be able to continue working without major pain in my wrist. I can't say enough great things about this place! read more

Wow. I broke my wrist and had a plate and 4 screws inserted to repair it. It was painful and movement limited. Since it was my right hand and I am right handed, there were many things I could not do because of the break and the surgery. I cannot believe the progress I have made in the last month getting physical therapy from Paul. But not only is he knowledgeable and helps heal you, the office is fun. The laughter helps minimize the pain of working out. All the patients are happy and it becomes group therapy as we cheer each other on. This would not happen if Paul didn't create such a warm and friendly atmosphere. A shout out to his staff, Delia and Natalie They are as nice and competent as Paul is! read more

Hands On OT was NOT for me. I found the experience to be unprofessional and disorganized. I truly hated the interactions with the lady who answers the phone and when you walk in everyone seems distracted. At the end of your appointment there is no direction about where to go to pay or schedule follow-up appointments. The place is incredibly small and cramped - all patients are worked on at long table as you walk in so there is no sense of privacy and I found it very awkward when you are waiting for an appointment or trying to schedule an appointment afterwards. After my initial appointment there was no communication about what the plan was for my treatment or how many appointments I should expect. My therapist seemed competent and the 2 appointments I had with her went fine, but my last interaction with the receptionist when I called to cancel an appointment due to a work emergency left a really terrible impression and I will not be going back or recommending this place to anyone. read more

Paul Gerstenfeld combines an incredible knowledge of treatment the hands and upper extremeties, a low key caring "tableside" manner (that often hides a wicked sense of humor and a truly ingenious magic box of tools, equipment and materials to make splints, healing aids, and the like. Paul treated my left carpal tunnel release and ulnar nerve transposition and his excellent occcupational therapy techniques, combined with inviting office spacek, made therapy something I actually looked forward to as a highlight of my week. His care is truly top-notch, and I have recommended several people with hand and upper extremity issues to his good and thorough care. No one will say that OT is easy, but if you can laugh through the pain yet all the while keep getting better, there's a lot off good things to be said for such great care. Jamie - Santa Monica read more