Therapydia SF - One Embarcadero

“I strive to do my best for every patient by drawing from a variety of techniques, staying current with research, and learning from other rehabilitation specialists. My expertise is in observing and assessing movement, choosing treatment strategies to improve dysfunctional patterns of movement, and educating patients on causes of and ways to avoid injury. I develop treatment plans based on the concept of regional interdependence–impairments that seem to be unrelated in a separate part of the body may contribute to, or be associated with, the primary complaint. In order for physical therapy to be successful, patients must be active participants in the rehabilitation process. This collaborative effort ensures the best possible outcome of improved health.”

Professional Licensure and Certifications:
Licensed Physical Therapist, State of California
Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist (OCS)
Pilates Instructor—ITT and BASI trained
Master Instructor—TRX Sports Medicine
CPR Certified

Education:
Masters of Science in Physical Therapy, UCSF/SFSU, 2003
California Teaching Credential, California Polytechnic State University
Bachelors of Arts, Liberal Studies, California Polytechnic State University

Techniques:
Postural Restoration Institute (PRI)
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stability (DNS)
Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)
Functional Movement Screen (FMS) Certified
TPI Level 1 Certified
Gray Institute Applied Functional Science Method
Maitland (Australian) Approach
Graston Certified
RockTape Certified-FM1, FM2
RunRx assessment

Activities and Community:
Trains and participates in running events—half-marathon and marathon distances
Enjoys cycling and swimming
Teaches and practices Pilates and TRX
Community lecturer for local groups including Team in Training, lululemon athletica, The San Francisco Marathon, Luna Chix, San Francisco AIDS Marathon, See Jane Run, The Run Center at UCSF
Contributing writer to various physical therapy publicationsMember of the U.S. Open Wellness Team
Member of The Loose Interpretations a cappella group

"I have an overall interest in orthopedic manual therapy centered on a thorough and accurate evaluation of the injured tissues and optimal treatment of that tissue through manual therapy and exercise treatments. My specializations include golf injury evaluations and performance, TMJ evaluation and treatment and post surgical physical therapy. I have had the pleasure of using my expertise in rehabilitation to consult for various sport teams including, City College of San Francisco Athletics, The Olympic Club Rugby Team and San Francisco Elite Academy. I also act as a consultant at various Bay Area companies where my expertise in musculoskeletal care helps companies optimize health care at companies. I'm a native San Franciscan who grew up in the Sunset district of San Francisco. When I'm not busy helping my patients reach their goals, I love being a husband and parent."

Professional Licensure and Certifications:
Licensed Physical Therapist, State of California
Titelist Performance Institute, Level 1
CPR Certified

Education:
Post doctorate Residency, Ola Grimsby Institute
Doctorate of Physical Therapy, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, 2011
Bachelor of Science, Kinesiology, Washington State University, 2006

Techniques:
Master Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist
Sports Medicine/Performance
Golf Biomechnaical assessment and performance
TMJ evaluation and Therapy

Activities and Community:
Team Physical Therapist for City College of San Francisco Athletics
Team Physical Therapist for The Olympic Club of San Francisco
Consultant for corporate health and wellness programs
Enjoys spending time with family, golf, Peleton and wine!

“I believe each patient’s “story” is unique and I love developing an individualized treatment program specific to their needs and goals. I enjoy teaching patients about their body and their injuries and I find patient education to be essential in the overall success of the patient’s rehabilitation. I use an eclectic approach based on the skills and experience I have gained through 28 years of patient care, continuing education, and peer collaboration. My background in Nutrition as well as my medical knowledge as a Physician Assistant allows me to give my patients a comprehensive approach focusing not only on their rehabilitation but their overall health and wellness. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the highest level athletes through USA Track and Field, USA Decathlon, San Jose/Cleveland Ballet, United States Figure Skating Association, and MLB – San Francisco Giants and it has helped me to fine tune my clinical skills.”

Professional Licensure and Certifications:
Licensed Physical Therapist, State of California
Licensed Physician Assistant, State of California
ACLS certified
CPR Certified

Education:
Master of Physical Therapy, Chapman University, 1989
Primary Care Physician Assistant Certification, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2011
Bachelor of Science, Nutrition, Montana State University

Techniques:
Biomechanical Assessment and Video Gait Analysis
Orthotic fabrication – Casting, heat molding (Vasyli)
Graston/IASTM techniques
K-T and McConnell taping techniques
Myofascial Decompression (Cupping)
Maitland (Australian) and Stanley Paris Approach

Activities and Community:
Former NCAA Division I collegiate gymnast
MLB 2nd opinion Physical Therapist
USA Track and Field, International Medical Team member
Medical Mission (as a Physician Assistant) in the Philippines with Remote Area Medicine (Typhoon Yolanda)
Medical Team volunteer for Alonzo King Lines Ballet
Enjoys traveling, photography, skiing, cycling, Pilates

"Since my first experience with physical therapy as a competitive swimmer with shoulder injuries, I have been fascinated with the rehabilitation process. I have a passion for pursuing the latest techniques and treatment philosophies in order to develop patient-specific treatments. I focus on an integrated, whole body approach to therapy in order to optimize movement. My treatment style consists of manual therapy with an emphasis on therapeutic exercise and improving biomechanics of functional movements. I enjoy treating a diverse patient population with a focus on educating and empowering patients to achieve their goals."

I was born and raised on the Peninsula and currently live in San Francisco. I love it! I've always been active, starting with competitive, year-round swimming when I was 9 years old. Fast forward a few years to high school when I began playing water polo year-round, an aggressive sport that led to several injuries, including my first (and second) torn meniscus in my right knee. I had two very different physical therapy experiences during my recovery from each surgery and quickly learned the importance of proper rehabilitation. My first PT experience was very poor. I wasn't given any information about how to manage my recovery or avoid future injury. Without a plan or any direction from my therapist, I naturally re-injured myself. I faced the same diagnosis, same surgery, and same path of rehab. I was frustrated! All I wanted to do was to get better and be able to play water polo. My second experience with physical therapy was completely different. I spent one on one time with the physical therapist, had a plan for my recovery and was taught the importance of staying strong to avoid future injury. This experience is what sparked my interest in physical therapy and I began to take Sports Medicine courses in college. I continued my path in physical therapy and became a physical therapy aide. I enjoyed this role because I was able to empathize with patients. I continued my role in healthcare working in patient safety at Genentech but found I missed my physical therapy interactions with patients.I love being a part of TherapydiaSF and everything the company believes in. I enjoy being able to be a part of getting patients the care they need! Outside of work I enjoy going to the beach, listening to music, and going to concerts. I'm always up for an adventure, hanging out with my 100Lb puppy, Teddy and enjoying yummy food!

Paula Palomarez, a native of San Francisco, has worked in the health field for almost a decade. She helps patients navigate the complicated world of health insurance as well as handling the various tasks that accompany patient care. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and her fur baby, Bella.