Physical Therapy

Physical therapists in San Diego to restore function

A physical therapy expert provides care to a reclining patient stretching his leg in a clinical setting.

Physical therapists in San Diego to restore function

To help individuals restore functional mobility after it’s been lost from disease, injury or surgery, Scripps Health offers physical therapy services in hospitals, outpatient clinics and home care settings throughout San Diego.


Whether you’ve had joint replacement surgery, are recovering from a stroke or are trying to return to routine activities after an injury, the rehabilitation team at Scripps includes highly trained physical therapists who are certified in multiple clinical areas to help you heal and reach your maximum potential.


A referral from the physician who is managing your care is needed prior to making an appointment with a physical therapist at Scripps.

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy (PT) is a type of physical rehabilitation. If a medical problem or injury hinders your ability to move or perform everyday tasks, Scripps Health physical therapists provide expert care at several locations in San Diego. With the goal of relieving symptoms, expediting recovery and preventing further disability, our therapists perform comprehensive assessments and develop individualized treatment programs.

Conditions we treat

Some common issues treated by physical therapists include:


  • Chronic pain, such as back pain
  • New or old injuries
  • Joint replacement surgery
  • Stroke

Types of physical therapy

Depending on your unique medical issue, physical therapy sessions at Scripps may include a range of different therapies. Our highly skilled physical therapists will recommend a treatment program tailored to your medical problem and goals.

Physical therapy for pain, injury or surgery

Our goal is to help restore your functional mobility after injury or surgery. We use the following therapies depending on each patient’s needs:


  • Therapeutic exercises to increase flexibility, range of motion, balance, coordination and endurance
  • Heat packs and cold compresses to reduce swelling or relieve pain
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Manual therapy
  • Assistive and adaptive device training (including crutches, prosthesis, orthotics and wheelchairs)
  • Home exercise instructions
  • Traction for back and neck pain
  • Patient education

Physical therapy for stroke

The goal of stroke rehabilitation is to help your loved one relearn skills and abilities and return to productive, independent living. 


Stroke rehab therapies include:


  • Cognitive skills development
  • Manual therapy
  • Neuromuscular re-education
  • Assistive and adaptive device training (including crutches, prosthesis, orthotics and wheelchairs)
  • Home exercise instructions
  • Patient education


Scripps also offers the full continuum of care for stroke patients who require rehabilitation, ranging from our brain injury day treatment program to outpatient stroke rehab and home health rehabilitation. Learn more about our comprehensive stroke recovery services.

Gait assessment  

Scripps Health offers a sophisticated gait analysis laboratory at Scripps Encinitas Rehabilitation Services, for patients who have walking abnormalities. Gait analysis is used to assess and treat patients with conditions affecting their ability to walk due to neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease, as well as neurological or orthopedic injuries ranging from traumatic brain injury (TBI) to sports injuries.


Gait assessment process

In order to receive an evaluation at our gait assessment laboratory, you will need a referral from your physician. Your doctor will need to write a prescription specifically for gait cycle analysis and physical therapy.


The first step in the comprehensive walking and running gait analysis is to be evaluated by a physical therapist. This assessment will determine your muscle length and strength, joint range of motion, balance, and presence of spasticity (problems controlling the muscles due to rigidity or spasms).


After the assessment, you’ll undergo a 3-D motion analysis that is recorded by seven specialized cameras, two video cameras, two force plates, an electromyogram (EMG) system to record electric activity in your muscles and reflective markers that are placed on various joints across your body. During the motion analysis, a computer will record a variety of measurements, including your joint angles, joint force, real-time muscle activity and body mass displacement.


The combination of tests results in a precise report detailing your specific gait deficits. Your referring physician or physical therapist will use this report to customize a treatment plan that addresses your specific gait impairments and improves your ability to walk.


Call 760-633-6507 for more information or to schedule a gait analysis. You will need a referral from your physician before making an appointment.

Wheelchair seating evaluations

If you’re one of the millions of Americans who relies on a wheelchair, then you know how important it is that your chair is comfortable and functional. By finding the best-fitting wheelchair for your needs, you can enjoy greater mobility, comfort and quality of life.


The Scripps wheelchair seating program at Scripps Encinitas Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive seating and wheelchair evaluations by licensed physical therapists and assistive technology professionals.


Whether you’re in need of your first wheelchair or have relied on one for years, our seating program will help ensure your wheelchair addresses fit, function and mobility.


Results of the personalized wheelchair evaluations and recommendations are sent to your referring physician and insurance company to expedite the authorization and delivery of the most appropriate wheelchair for you. In addition, we can provide you with a letter of medical necessity.


In order to schedule an appointment for a wheelchair seating evaluation, you will need a referral from your physician and valid medical insurance. Once you have a referral, please call Scripps Encinitas Rehabilitation Services at 760-633-6507.

Physical therapy locations

Most locations specialize in therapy for orthopedic or neurological diseases and conditions, and some locations also offer specialized services in lymphedema, pelvic floor physical therapy, vestibular rehabilitation and advanced wound care.


Physical therapy is offered at the following Scripps Health locations in San Diego County:



Meet our physical therapists to see their specialties and contact information.