Expertise.com
2024

Last updated:

Best Physical Therapists in San Diego

Our Recommended Top 18

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored San Diego Physical Therapists on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

292

Reviewed

182

Curated

18

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
12395 El Camino Real, Suite 111, San Diego, CA 92130

Why choose this provider?

Water & Sports Physical Therapy is a family owned business for over 25 years. They have nine convenient state-of-the art locations all over San Diego. They are a unique physical therapy company that combines manual therapy, aquatic therapy, and land exercises to treat all types of injuries. Their team of doctors and aquatic specialists are dedicated to providing individualized treatment and enhanced quality care for all of their patients. Services include physical therapy, aquatic therapy, pro-athlete and sports specific training, massage therapy, and more. They also developed their own 3D infrared analysis system to analyze movement to prevent injury and improve overall wellness. This company was the official physical therapist of the San Diego Padres for the 2015 and 2016 seasons. They were also recognized as one of the physical therapy companies for Opencare's patient choice awards.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Solana Beach, CA 92075

Why choose this provider?

One Nine Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy provides quality care for athletes of all ages in the San Diego, California, area. Operating out of Solana Beach, the business leverages technology and the latest evidence to ensure safe and effective return to sport therapy. The client-focused services include physical therapy, injury prevention, recovery treatments, cupping therapy, myofascial release, and IASTM. The therapists at One Nine have extensive manual therapy and strength and conditioning experience to help athletes get more out of performance therapy.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (136)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (32)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (27)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92111

Why choose this provider?

PT in Motion Inc provides family-centered physical therapy to children and adults in the San Diego and South Bay area. The staff treats both neurological and orthopedic conditions in adult patients, while the pediatric treatment focuses more on developmental training. The patients receive comprehensive evaluations and can participate in individual or group therapy at the clinic, in school, or at home. The business has worked collaboratively with the speech and occupational therapy businesses, Excel Speech and OT-Etc, for over 10 years and received a 2016 Patients' Choice Award from Opencare.com.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Facebook
4.7 / 5 (7)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (7)
Google
4.8 / 5 (4)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
San Diego, CA 92123

Why choose this provider?

San Diego Spine and Rehabilitation is a San Diego wellness center that specializes in the treatment of spine-related conditions including spinal stenosis, disc compression, sciatica, and more. Patients are also commonly treated for headaches, knee pain, hand and wrist pain, and whiplash, among other injuries resulting from auto accidents. In addition to physical therapy, the center provides medical services, chiropractic, massage, and non-surgical spinal decompression.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (52)

Website
Carlsbad, CA 92008

Why choose this provider?

Nakoa Fitness and Physical Therapy is a Carlsbad practice that specializes in active lifestyle fitness, performance training, nutrition counseling, injury prevention, personal training, and physical therapy. The team of coaches, personal trainers, and physical therapists provides personalized care to each patient. Most physical therapy patients at Nakoa have sustained orthopedic injuries from sports, overuse, or surgery. Nakoa earned a 2015 Patients' Choice Award from Opencare.com.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (20)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Carlsbad, CA 92011

Why choose this provider?

Longevity Physical Therapy is a Carlsbad clinic that aims to restore the function, mobility, and physical performance of a patient using a whole-body approach. The center specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation, functional restoration, and vestibular rehabilitation. The team of therapists is composed of experts in Applied Functional Science, and most of the therapists have a Fellow of Applied Functional Science certification.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (93)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (25)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92123

Why choose this provider?

Rehab United has four locations in the San Diego Metro and uses the principles of Applied Functional Science to evaluate and treat a variety of injuries and conditions with physical therapy. The staff of physical therapists focuses on both the causes and the symptoms to provide comprehensive, individualized treatment. In addition to physical therapy, Rehab United also offers personal training, group classes, massage therapy, acupuncture, and other wellness programs.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.4
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (85)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (57)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
La Jolla, CA 92037

Why choose this provider?

Aspire Health and Wellness is a private La Jolla physical therapy practice that provides comprehensive physical therapy treatment plans that promote healing, whole-body wellness, and healthy living. The practice takes a holistic approach to each patient and uses a range of techniques such as manual therapy, Active Release Techniques®, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), Cupping and Deep Tissue Laser Therapy.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (19)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (4)

Website
San Diego, CA 92108

Why choose this provider?

Innovative Physical Therapy aims to restore, maintain, and promote optimal physical function alongside personal fitness, wellness, and whole-body health. Serving the San Diego community since 1994, the center has a variety of programs designed to address injuries and conditions such as osteoporosis, sports injuries, chronic pain, and more. The therapists provide personalized therapy regimens using a range of techniques, from Kinesiotape to Myofascial Release therapy.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (26)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Marcos, CA 92078

Why choose this provider?

Parmenter Physical Therapy is a health and wellness provider in San Diego that commits to improving the patients’ function and getting them "back to their favorite activities.” The owner and lead practitioner, Ms. Parmenter, received her bachelor’s in physical therapy from the University of Wisconsin, and she has been working in the orthopedic outpatient setting since 1985. Ms. Parmenter holds an Active Release Technique certification, and her focus areas include the management of soft-tissue injury, rehabilitation of post-surgical cases, and conduct of injury-prevention programs. Parmenter Physical Therapy treats individuals aged 10 to 90 years, and it also helps resolve issues that involve the spine and the extremities. The company website contains client forms, as well as important information on medical screens, insurance billing, and related matters.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (8)
Google
4.9 / 5 (7)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92109

Why choose this provider?

Ocean Physical Therapy is a San Diego spine and sports medicine clinic that provides high-quality outpatient physical therapy to orthopedic, neurological, musculoskeletal, and sports injury patients. Therapy sessions begin with an initial evaluation and include exercise, manual therapy, and a variety of modalities. The staff offers comprehensive home program development options.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (43)
Google
4.8 / 5 (17)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (12)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92121

Why choose this provider?

Comprehensive Therapy Services strives to provide high-quality, multidisciplinary physical therapy to the San Diego metro that maximizes restoration of function in each patient. The facility regularly treats general orthopedic conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as sports injuries, pelvic dysfunction, and pediatric injuries and conditions. The team of physical therapists and massage therapists are trained in everything from sports medicine and Pilates to workers’ compensation injuries and women’s health.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (45)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (14)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92122

Why choose this provider?

With offices in University City and Sorrento Valley, FunctionSmart Physical Therapy delivers personalized, professional care that restores function and increases recovery. In addition to orthopedic physical therapy, the center has offered injury screenings, specialized men's and women's health programs, biofeedback, acupuncture, massage therapy, and more for nearly 35 years. The staff is also well-trained in pelvic health issues and treatment.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (18)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92111

Why choose this provider?

Therapy Specialists is a San Diego center that delivers physical, occupational, hand, and speech therapy to patients of all ages. Since 1976, the family-operated center has provided outpatient and rehab services ranging from aquatic therapy to acupuncture. The facility has been honored by the San Diego Business Journal as one of the best places to work for five consecutive years.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (12)
Facebook
4.6 / 5 (11)
Google
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
San Diego, CA 92108

Why choose this provider?

Serving the San Diego Metro, Catalyst Physical Therapy and Wellness focuses on holistic treatment of the body in a welcoming and supportive environment. The team of highly trained physical therapists emphasizes functional movement and exercise and integrates manual therapy and patient education into the treatment. In addition to physical therapy services, Catalyst also offers yoga, massage, acupuncture, endurance coaching, and personal training.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (178)
Google
4.9 / 5 (155)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (51)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chula Vista, CA 91910

Why choose this provider?

Sports Performance Physical Therapy provides injury prevention, physical therapy, and sports rehabilitation and training to the greater Chula Vista community. The staff combines the latest sports science with personalized care to help patients achieve optimal fitness and athletic potential under the guidance of Dr. Chris Garcia, a residency trained sports clinical specialist in physical therapy. The techniques used at SPPT include Graston Technique, Kinesiology tape, and Myofascial Decompression Cupping. Post-surgery rehabilitation and corrective exercise programs are available, as well as a variety of individual and group courses and educational sessions.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (159)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (49)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (34)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Diego, CA 92128

Why choose this provider?

ISIS Physical Therapy is a San Diego clinic that specializes in sport-specific therapy. The staff strives to give each patient long lasting results by providing individual patient care and using state-of-the-art equipment. Among the variety of modalities practiced at ISIS are cold laser therapy, spinal decompression, electric stimulation, ultrasound, iontophoresis, and Kinesiotape. The center also offers a series of golf fitness programs as well as Fit at the Tee golf performance training.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (18)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Carlsbad, CA 92011

Why choose this provider?

ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine uses the latest techniques and technologies to deliver high-quality physical therapy within a friendly, professional environment to all five of their clinics in San Diego County. The physical therapy services include hand therapy, Active Release Technique, Graston Technique, functional capacity evaluation, and more. The center also offers onsite aquatic therapy.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (62)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    Physical therapy is an essential medical specialty for people that experience difficulties with performing daily activities. This includes simple tasks such as bending, walking, picking up objects, showering, and dressing. Patients that require physical therapy treatment include those with physical disabilities, old age, injuries caused by accidents, or disease.

    Physical therapy is used to help patients manage their pain, rehabilitate the affected body area, and restore optimum performance. Most physical therapists specialize in treating specific cases, such as:
    • Orthopedics, including injuries to muscles, bones, and joints.
    • Pediatric therapy to treat children's injuries and developmental conditions, such as cerebral palsy.
    • Athletic injuries, including fractures, strains, and splints.
    • Geriatric therapy for the elderly with various, conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and stability disorders.
  • What is physical therapy?

    Physical therapy is a medical practice involving therapeutic activities to help patients regain mobility and normal bodily functions. It provides a remedy for the treatment of injuries, medical conditions, and pain management. Physical therapists receive a diagnosis from a physician, identify the appropriate treatment plan, and conduct customized therapy sessions to restore or better physical function.

  • What is the difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy?

    Physical therapy and occupational therapy retrain the body and mind and play a vital role in improving or maintaining physical functions. Occupational therapy focuses on enhancing fine-motor skills or hand-eye coordination to perform daily activities, such as getting dressed or writing. Physiotherapy concentrates on improving pain, physical deterioration, and range of motion by stimulating blood circulation with targeted exercise.

  • What do physical therapists do?

    Physical therapists help relieve pain and improve physical strength and movement to individuals of all ages with injuries or debilitating diseases, whether acute or chronic. They consult with doctors to learn about the patients' needs, evaluate movement dysfunctions, teach patients how to use equipment, and provide treatments, such as massage. Other responsibilities include monitoring progress and altering treatment as necessary.

  • What does a physical therapist assistant do?

    Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists. Their responsibilities include reporting patient progress and working with individuals of all ages on therapeutic exercises, gait and balance training, and how to use recovery equipment.

  • Are physical therapists doctors?

    Physical therapists are considered doctors of physical therapy and are qualified to use the title "Dr." in front of their name. The biggest difference between them and medical doctors is that PTs use exercises and massage to restore their patients' health, whereas doctors offer treatment using medications and surgeries.

  • Can physical therapists diagnose?

    Physical therapists don't perform medical diagnoses. In most cases, doctors perform the medical diagnoses and refer the patient to a physical therapist for rehabilitative treatment. The physical therapist conducts a physical evaluation to pinpoint the nature and extent of the physical damage or impairment and prepares a treatment plan.