I have been treated by Karen & Brenda (co-owners of Noe Valley Physical Therapy) off and on for various (sometimes acute) problems since 2001 and I think the world of them. They are not only highly skilled in their professions but are caring and patient and - together with their staff - create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. When I first went to see them, I had a terrible problem that prevented me from using my arm normally and doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong or what had caused it. I feel like Karen saved me. A few years later, I hurt my foot and could barely walk on it without pain. As an avid hiker and walker this was a nightmare. I went to a podiatrist who wasn't helpful at all. I went to see Brenda and she explained what was going on in detail (something I couldn't get from the podiatrist), and was able to calm the injury through direct treatment and exercises and eventually prescribed custom orthotics and restored my ability to hike again. Through some of the worst of the above I was also suffering from financial hardship and Karen & Brenda made some generous concessions to help me. I will be forever grateful to them for that and their wonderful care. read more

I'm kinda shocked that I hadn't already written a rave review long ago. I guess I assumed I had, but now I get to rave over 23 years and multiple injuries, surgeries, and recoveries. Starting after the 19 spine procedures with a prognosis of paralysis by 2007; nope! And yes, still doing Karen's exercises today. Then a torn bicep tendon reattached 12 years ago, and with Karen's brilliant work, 100% strength and extension. Then in 2019 I tore multiple tendons, muscles, and ligaments in my shoulder in a skating accident. Completely re-built shoulder in surgery. Once again, Karen helped me regain strength and mobility and today (at 64yrs of age) I'm doing 45 pushups and 10 pull-ups in an "L" along with my Physical Therapy exercises. Karen is an absolute genius when it comes to Physical therapy. read more

I came to Noe Valley PT with a serious balance problem. This seemed to emanate from a series of falls. Thank God I found Deborah, an extraordinary therapist who guided me to a progress I had only hoped for. I have taken from our weeks together a series of exercises that I continue with to this day. She is amazing, as is the charming young lady at the counter. read more

I have called 4 times within business hours, never got through until today. Got a hold of a woman working at the front desk and she was very dismissive and rude. Her tone was very much , " don't have time for this right now, bye, try again ." There was nothing sincere about her first impression. If this is what a potential client is encountered with on their first look, then they need to look into better staffing the front desk. read more

Wonderful place! It's a shame, that being a female vet with only Veterans Insurance, that it took the VA 9 months to graciously give me outside therapy. Then when they did, it was for the wrong body part. So this review is for the one session I had with the lovely Brenda. She listened, she understood, she gave words of advice and at some point, I am sure her eyebrow raised to give me the "what in the heck were you doing" look. Which for me, I need a bit of tough love. I miss her already. Hopefully, I can get back there and praise her more. Also, Scott, the office manager I suspect was super kind and understanding and I felt like he really was there to try and help this vet out. Cheers to the both of you. read more

I have had two wonderful experiences with these folks. Former therapist Oliver Mok worked wonders on my left shoulder after I broke it while jogging a few years ago. More recently, I began to have pain in my RIGHT shoulder, source unknown, but serious enough so that it kept me awake at night. After 6 months of increasing discomfort, including pain and numbness in the thumb and fingers of my right hand, I went to see Deborah Hartog, who was able to help me in just a few sessions. Now I am almost totally pain-free, and I have a series of exercises to do if the pain returns. Highly recommended. Deborah really has magic fingers! ;-) read more

My surgeon Dr. Dye recommended Noe ValleyPT, and they are super close to me. I been doing my knee post op recovery here for the past 8 weeks and have only great things to say. Scott at the front desk has been the most helpful and patient FD I have seen in a while. He helped me research my insurance to make sure my plan covered their services. Then after making about 20-25 appointments and me losing that paper- he had to repeat them all back to me a few days later...without blinking an eye... My PT Oliver, has helped me make great progress and is very good in asking the right questions and subsequently helping me gaining more flexibility and strength. And my very picky surgeon is even happy in where we are :) read more

I have work with Karen on a shoulder injury and post surgery recovery as well as a ruptured disc in my spine. She offers top notch hands on physical therapy. She is thorough and knowledgeable, considering the impact the injury can have on the surrounding areas of the body. Her homework is sensible and effective in supporting the recovery process. The office billing is smooth and appointments are always on time. My husband is currently seeing Karen for a shoulder injury and his recovery is also going very well. We are extremely grateful for Karen's commitment to providing terrific medical care. read more

Over the years, I've seen many physical therapists for post-surgery rehab of a shoulder, hip, and knees and misc. other athletic injuries . . . in hospitals, clinics, and private practices on the East Coast and here. Most were very good. But none was close to Brenda in careful listening, diagnostic skills, plain English explanations -- not to mention actual manipulation and body work. She will help you -- whether you're a team player, neighborhood walker or just covering from injury or surgery. She's your key to get back in action. read more

Brenda has the strongest hands ever. She can massage a sore arm into submission. Specializes in Ergonomics.

I've been Treated by Oliver for the last 2.5 months at NVPT for a distal bicep repair and He's been instrumental to my recovery. After one particular session I was able to suppinate my arm whereas I couldn't before walking in. When my insurance ran out Oliver even sent me a list of exercises so that I could continue my therapy at home. I recommend them without reservation. read more

My family received outstanding care at Noe Valley Physical Therapy. After a snowboarding accident my son was having trouble and pain in his knee. After an MRI the orthopedist thought he would need surgery. The doctor approved of us going to physical therapy. The hope was the physical therapy could improve the knee enough to prevent the operation. We found everyone we at Noe Vallye Physical Therapy very professional.The front end person was always helpful and sweet. The physical therapist we saw was incredably knowledgeable. In addition to her good work, the physical therapist was able to explain what was going on with my sons knee in language we could understand. She also gave him exercises to do at home and continues to be available if we ever have a question. My sons knee improved so much we were able to avoid surgery! read more

Karen and Brenda started this practice over 20 years ago. They and their small staff are amazing. You will not find a better, more capable, more knowledgeable group of people in which to place your physical health. Personal attention is the key and the therapists are so talented. Skip hospital based clinics and come here. You won't regret it, I promise you. They have kept me functional for years! This is not your basic hospital based PT. It is in a class by itself. read more

Several months ago I injured my lower back and was in extreme pain, not to mention incredibly bummed I had to give up running, which I had been doing intensively for the past 7 years. As a student at one of the best medical schools in the country (UCSF), I had a lot of options for treatment. I tried a handful of other medical providers for several weeks but didn't find them helpful, before I started working with Oliver at NVPT. Oliver was by far the best provider for what I needed: diminished pain, and instruction on how to exercise in a way that would support my back while it healed. With exceptional receptivity, patience and attentiveness to my particular situation, Oliver has seen me through a gradual, full recovery the last 2 months. He's taught me how my back works and practical tools I can use to reduce my pain (gone now) and to strengthen supportive muscles. In addition to the exercises Oliver's taught me, I am gradually beginning to run again, and am doing it in a healthier/smarter way than ever before. In short, Oliver rocks as a physical therapist. I couldn't make a stronger recommendation. read more

Noe Valley PT is a great spot. Oliver is my main man, he's helped this pixel pusher get his digitally inflicted back pain in check. If you're physically tweaked in any way give these guys a ring. Nice, stretch very nice. read more

Karen Shaneyfelt worked real magic on the herniated disc in my neck and all the ensuing pain and problems it was causing. I thought it would take months for recovery, but I was literally 95% better after one visit!! Crazy! She also showed me how to use a back roller, which has been wonderful in helping me help myself over various issues for several years now. She's patient, funny, informative, a good listener, and really knows her stuff. Every time something goes wrong in my musculoskeletal system, she's the first person I turn to. Most recently, a whole new cascade of back and hip issues -- which have gotten SO much better since seeing her, that I actually stopped doing my exercises... and then things started to get worse again. Do the exercises she gives you and don't slack like I did! read more

Karen and Noe Valley Physical Therapy is wonderful. She has treated my 12-year old son for a knee problem and me for a variety of ailments. She has a great rapport with kids and adults alike and has an extremely comprehensive understanding and expertise. I recommend her highly for athletes of all ages! read more

I was referred to Noe Valley Physical Therapy by my orthopedic surgeon Dr. Akizuki for my ACL surgery recovery. First of all, Scott answered my call and was really friendly and helpful and got me my first appointment with Oliver the very next day! I was so thankful that they accept Blue Shield, as they are a block from my apartment, and I can hobble there on my own. When I arrived for my first appointment I was in a locked brace and on crutches and Scott was so kind and helpful with getting me in and comfortable and all of the paperwork done. He also scheduled a month's worth of appointments in advance so I don't have to worry about it going forward! I love efficiency! Oliver is my physical therapist and he is very patient! He has a gentle touch, but pushes me to work harder than I thought possible at this stage of my recovery. He got me working on my strength before surgery and combined that with ultrasound to make ease the pain. After surgery he has been a life saver! The exercises he has me do seem so simple, but for my atrophying muscles, they are quite challenging, and Oliver has been very encouraging and patient. He asks lots of questions to make sure he has all of the information he needs to move forward, and when something is too difficult for me (stationary bicycle today), he is great about helping me recover and try another approach. The electric stimulation and ice therapy is amazing. I felt a million times better after leaving my appointment today! I recommend this place and feel grateful that they are in my neighborhood! read more

Just completed a round of 12 visits. The office is very professional and every appointment was on time. Deborah, my therapist was very patient and very helpful. I will go back there should any other PT needs arise read more

Karen helped me rehabilitate my back more than twenty years ago--after no one else could. I have seen her off and on since. She is practical, smart, and always amazing and comforting. Has a lovely, direct midwestern style of being--no new age stuff here. She will perform miracles. (You just have to do your homework!) read more

It doesn't get better than karen! She is a miracle worker. I love this place. Make an appointment if you are hurting -- you won't be sorry!

This is a great place! I've had back pain for over two years so I've tried many physical therapists. Oliver at Noe Valley Physical Therapy has been the best. He's patient, insightful, and really adapted his advise to fit my lifestyle. My back pain has become minimal and totally manageable thanks to him. read more

My general practitioner recommended Noe Valley Physical Therapy when I developed severe pain in my knees, legs and back from aggressive walking. Brenda was very helpful in helping me understand the causes and effects of my pain. In addition to the therapy, which was very professional, she coached me on how to avoid this in the future. I say her last year and now I am taking 3 mile hikes almost daily with no discomfort. read more

I have been working with Oliver for almost a year for a few different injuries. Oliver is a wonderful physical therapist. He's thoughtful and always asks how you are and really wants to hear the answer. He's a sensitive person. Physical therapy is an intimate art form. It involves massage and manipulation of the body and Oliver has always made me feel relaxed and comfortable. I would recommend Oliver to any patient without reservation. read more

Oliver Mok is a magician! He's incredibly talented and helped me heal very well. Oliver brings the right blend of patience and motivation to his sessions with you. To top it off, he has a great personality which makes the hard stuff less hard. Ferdinad at the front desk is so welcoming and alaways makes me smile. read more

Have been here for sciatica, knee issues, and symphysis separatation when pregnant. Great outcomes with each.

If you spend all day staring at computers and have developed "mouse-arm", then you should definitely check this physical therapy place out. Unlike other physical therapy places I've been to, you actually get to work with a single physical therapist for the entire appointment, rather than being shuffled through a physical therapy factory. It's not conveniently located unless you live out in Noe Valley or drive, but it's worth it. www.noevalleypt.com read more

"I have been more than happy with the results of my therapy. Oliver Mok has worked miracles on me and the staff is excellent. I have received first-rate treatment and have had good results for my condition while under his care. I strongly recommend Noe Valley Physical Therapy to any one who needs physical therapy of any nature." Gregory Foss - Noe Valley read more

I have seen at least 6 therapists for various conditions throughout my life of 70 years, The most relief I've ever had has come from Brenda Kaufman Nelson. Last year, I was treated by Brenda for severe back pain. In only a few weeks, I could feel a huge difference in my pain, and, in a short time, she saved me from the dreaded Back Surgery. This year, I saw Brenda for a new condition...shoulder rehabilitation. Four months ago, I had Rotator Cuff/Bicep/SLAP surgery and Brenda has once again been my life saver. Her patience and knowledge are priceless. The office is amazing too. It's not like some settings where the therapist is rushed and juggling more than one patient at a time. It's calm, clean, with a small friendly staff. At the front desk, Scott is professional and friendly, and great with scheduling and insurance questions. All in all, PVPT is a perfect place where one can mend and heal. read more

Karen at Noe VAlley PT knowledge is incredible. He kindness and care is present but her first concern is the physical body. She continues training in new cutting edge things. She has helped me in dire situations from herniated disks to torn rotor cuffs. She has suggested paths that avoided invasive surgeries. I am better off for what she has taught me to rehab my body over the decades. We have always found humor in the challenges that I have met physically and that makes it so much easier to endure the pain. I trust her with my body like no one else. read more