Patient Testimonials
On November 12, 2010, I underwent spinal surgery by Dr. Robert Byers of Mt. Tam Orthopedics. A laminectomy of L5 and a decompression or laminotomy of L4. The surgery relieved my back pain and numbness in both legs and feet. On February 10, 2011, I started physical therapy and during my first session, my therapist asked what my goals might be in relation to the back rehabilitation. I told him that gaining the ability to surf again, pain free, was important.My therapist was able to combine his knowledge of physical therapy and passion for surfing into a very helpful series of sessions for me. He was able to identify areas of muscle weakness and stiffness that probably contributed to my back problems and were slowing my recovery.
I learned some efficient back-friendly body mechanics and then a number of exercises, movements, and stretches. For the first time, I learned what this “CORE” concept was all about and how to really feel and incorporate it into my daily activities. I thought my balance was O.K., but my therapist taught me some simple and subtle exercises that really improved it. I am surfing again, pain free, and my flexibility is improving.
David D. 4/2011
I wanted to let you all know how much I appreciate my therapist’s work, on not one but BOTH of my shoulders post rotator cuff surgery. My right shoulder was done mid July 2009 and my left late Spetember 2010, and I began physical therapy at almost exactly 12 weeks post op for both. I got my therapist as one of Core’s shoulder specialists and couldn’t be happier with the work he did. The shoulder is great in all respects, now more than 20 months later. I was so happy with my surgeon and therapist’s work that I decided to have the left shoulder done and specifically asked to return to the same therapist at Core Physical Therapy. It has been six months exactly since surgery, and I am again very happy with the results. The left is still a “work in progress” but is about 90% of where I want it, and getting stronger and more flexible, with better and better range of motion all the time. I expect it to be 100% very soon, with good strength, ROM, flexibility, and no pain. I had had pain and weakness with limited ROM in the left shoulder for over 20 years, now I’m pain free. The fight was a chronic (skiing) injury but I can throw baseballs, shoot baskets, do all the things I enjoy. I just recommended my therapist to a friend of my teenage son, and have every confidence he will help anyone who come to him. Thanks Core!
Bruce K. 3/2011
I went to physical therapy at Core from May 2010 until March 2011 after knee replacement surgery. I had complications and had surgery two more times on my knee during that time. The knowledge, experience and encouragement of the physical therapists at Core helped me deal with and recover from my unique problems after surgery. The entire staff was always professional and helpful. I would like to thank the staff at Core for helping me with a long and frustrating recovery. I would highly recommend Core to anyone needing professional Physical Therapy.
Lee H. 3/2011
I limped into my first physical therapy session after suffering a torn meniscus and being diagnosed with advanced osteoarthritis in the knee…not what I wanted to hear at age 59. A very caring and encouraging therapist, taught me the leg strengthening exercises which have enabled me to move smarter and better, and his clear instruction facilitated their performance at home. He showed me how to go up and down stairs in a way to accommodate the arthritic knee and prevent pain. The therapist even critiqued my favorite shoes, and advised me that they were causing knee instability. Based upon his recommendation about what to look for in a shoe, I went shoe shopping. Walking in the new shoes confirmed he was absolutely right!
After six sessions at Core, I am confident that knee surgery will not be necessary in the near future. But when that day does come, I know that I will want to return to Core for my post-op physical therapy.
Mary J. 2/2011
My experience at Core was excellent. All of the staff were professional and helpful, and there was lots of flexibility with appointment scheduling. I went to both the Terra Linda and Sausalito locations, both of which were warm, clean, and inviting. My therapist was excellent, he was exceptionally knowledgeable, professional, and encouraging, and in spite of having a condition that is severe and unique, he was able to facilitate me gaining increased function and range of motion. He also researched the pluses and minuses of two surgical options for my condition and provided me a summary of what he found, as well as recommending shoes that make it much easier for me to walk. Once again, I had a professional and excellent experience at CORE.
Kirk S. 2/2011
I was referred to Core PT in early September after suffering a severe hamstring strain. This was not only the worst injury I had ever sustained but came on the heels of other health issues that required three surgeries in less than a year. I had just recovered and was able to be active again when the injury occurred. As an extremely active 43 year old mother of three who enjoys many outdoor activities and sports, I was more than disheartened with my situation and the prospect of a long recovery.
I was more than fortunate to come to Core PT. My physical therapist’s professionalism, knowledge, and encouragement were vital to my recovery process. As an athlete himself, my therapist was empathetic to my frustrations. That empathy coupled with his patience, good listening skills, and advice helped me get through the rough patches. Every time I finished a session I felt hopeful and motivated. He provided me with the tools I needed to continue with my recovery on my own. He inspired me to implement core work and stretching in my daily life (two components that were not a well liked or strong point of mine). More importantly, he aided me in becoming physically active again at the level I need and want. Along the way, he taught me self-patience that I hope will keep me from re-injuring myself.
I have had PT in the past, but it was not near the quality and care I received at CORE. I will recommend it to anyone I know needing P.T.! Four months after starting physical therapy (in which I couldn’t even walk without a limp or do any of the physical activities I love) at Core, I am able to walk/jog, hike for hours, swim a mile, enjoy gym workouts, rock climbing and biking! My therapist definitely had a tremendous impact on my recovery and success.
Vanessa T. 1/2011
As a patient of Core Physical Therapy I received excellent care for my rotator cuff of my right shoulder. I had lost much of my range of motion and was in a lot of pain. As I began my physical therapy sessions I was put at ease by my therapist’s calm and compassionate demeanor and assisted in my healing process. The process seemed slow and arduous, but was very effective. I cannot stress enough the importance of continued exercise as there was a point that I eased off the exercises and needless to say the healing regressed, but my therapist was patient and got me back on track. At this time I have regained almost full range of motion in my shoulder and have very little pain.
My therapist was an outstanding and dedicated professional endeavoring to attain the best for his patients, educating them and motivating them. Words alone cannot express how appreciative I am of him. With gratitude,
Joni H. 12/2010
If you have to go to physical therapy, I recommend the group at Core Physical Therapy. The therapists who worked with me to rehab my shoulder were professional, personable, and kind. They were knowledgeable about the healing process and worked diligently with me in a firm and gentle way. Physical therapy is hard enough, these professionals make it a process that is positive and hopeful. In healing my shoulder, they also healed my spirits! Thank you everyone at Core Physical Therapy, you do important and meaningful work!
Maureen Z. 12/2010
I have twice been referred for physical therapy by my primary doctor – both times to Core Physical Therapy in Marin. The first time was about 4 years ago for severe back pain. The therapist at Core gave me exercises that worked and made a difference. The pain went away and to this day I don’t have significant problems with the back – as long as I continue my exercise routine.
In 2009, my knees began hurting a lot, probably from years of jogging/running and basketball. I was sent to an orthopedist who told me I might have meniscus problems. I didn’t opt for an MRI or surgery yet, but did agree to physical therapy. My therapist at Core gave me a lot of exercises to strengthen parts of my body that needed it. These exercises helped and I gained strength, but after I went on three long hikes while camping, I was in great pain, which was later diagnosed as a torn meniscus. After surgery, I was sent back to Core for therapy. My knee with the surgery has recovered well. I attribute this to the skill of my surgeon, but also to my therapist at Core.
Bill J. 11/2010
"The Physical Therapist I worked with at CORE was head and shoulders above any Physical Therapist I have ever worked with during 25 years of chronic and acute back pain. The knowledge, experience, and expertise in combining treatments that get results separates the PT here from other professionals. I was helped with a debilitating back problem others could not figure out. What the PT did for me, and what I was taught to do for myself, has changed my life."
Greg B. 9/15/2010
"At the outset of my coming into Core PT, I felt very self-conscious about my spine injury and body cast. My condition was weak at best, and my self-image was battered. After the first three sessions, I began to see improvement in strength, flexibility and endurance. My posture began to improve within a few short months. In addition my pain level has improved to the point I rarely need any medications. Overall the PT was an invaluable source of spine recovery, exercise, maintenance and method. This experience has unquestionably changed my recovery and life."
Kenneth O. 9/13/2010
“I was recently directed to Core Physical Therapy after an MRI of my lower back showed serious deterioration; I am 66 years old and have not been kind to my body. I have had physical therapy a number of times over the years and was looking forward to this opportunity to see what is new and what will help me to continue an active lifestyle. My first visit was a fact finding adventure, my therapist was very articulate in all that he did sticking to the agenda, the therapist’s first question was about what I expected to gain from this PT series of visits; I thought about it and said that I wanted to carry a 50lb pack on a trip into the Sierra’s. One week after my final visit I carried a pack into the Sierra’s, which exceeded the maximum 50lb scale, with no back pain and better than normal sleep. On each of my visits I was given exercises and checked to see that I was performing them correctly and why. Also I brought my MRI results and my daily exercise schedule to be scrutinized and reduce the exercises to those beneficial to me. No time was wasted in performing exercises only creating a program of core building and protecting my body. This was a totally rewarding experience far exceeding what I had previously experienced."
Tom C. 8/30/2010
“I started going to Core Physical Therapy in Sausalito for my arm/shoulder pain about
three months ago. They diagnosed me with having adhesive capsulitis. At that time,
I was not able to move my arm even a few inches without pain. It was even painful to
drive. Just within a few weeks of physical therapy, my shoulder started becoming much
more flexible and was able to go back to the normal activities without much difficulty.
I also appreciated the approach they have taken. It was not a one-way treatment. They
really listened to me to understand my needs and lifestyle, and helped me to set a goal
by putting together the program that works the best for me so that I can continue doing
preventative exercises at home as well. They are also very professional and thorough.”
Junko V. 8/09/10
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to you for your caring and all of your expert
help getting my shoulder motion back…The therapists were also extremely professional,
helpful, and nice! Great crew!”
Karen P. 7/26/10
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your tremendous help in my road to
recovery. I truly appreciated your kindness, caring attitude, and genuine concern for
my health and well being. I was fortunate that you took my care, and was impressed
with your knowledge and expertise from our first meeting. At that point, I knew I was
in “excellent hands.” …Thanks from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done to
assist me in the healing process.”
Suzanne M. 7/02/10
“From my first contact with office staff through my last therapy session,
the care and service I received at Core Physical Therapy was fantastic.
The office is run very efficiently; making appointments was quick and easy
and the reception staff was very pleasant and helpful. The physical
therapist who worked with me is a top-notch professional as well as being
very personable and easy to talk to. He conducted a thorough evaluation
prior to beginning my therapy and I felt he really listened to my
concerns. The therapy provided was very effective in relieving my
symptoms and he explained everything so I was able to understand the
problem, the cause of the problem, and why he was prescribing those
particular exercises....My experience as a patient at Core Physical
Therapy was pleasant and productive and I highly recommend them.”
Faith D. 4/28/10
“Just a note to say thank you very much for leading me through the rigors of physical therapy. You’re great!”
Gary L. 04/20/10
“I would highly recommend Core PT to anyone needing physical therapy. The physical therapist assigned to me was professional, knowledgeable, and friendly; and always took the time to explain what the expectations were. I was referred to CORE PT by my physician to rehabilitate my shoulder, which had undergone rotator cuff surgery. I truly believe that because of the program my physical therapist had suggested for me, my shoulder actually regained flexibility and strength ahead of schedule. Even my surgeon commented on the speed of my recovery, which I attribute to the regiment that was given to me by my physical therapist.”
Frederick S. 3/30/10
“I started physical therapy with severe pain in my neck and arm due to a herniated disc. Upon working with my therapist the pain has been completely alleviated. I feel great and I was even able to cancel the appointments for the steroid shots originally prescribed by my doctor. I felt my therapist took a careful, gentle, yet very effective approach and I couldn’t be happier with my experience, and highly recommend the staff at CORE PT. Thank you!”
Kiren N. 2/10
"Just a quick note to thank the staff at Core for all your help in rehabilitating my knee. I will remember fondly everyone’s positive attitude and humor which helped me deal with the discomfort and stay the course. I am continuing to do the exercises you taught me and I look forward patiently to the day when I regain near full use of my leg. My best also to the front desk staff, who were always helpful and courteous to me."
Dave G. 5/09
"This note is to confirm how extremely pleased I am at the result obtained at CORE to treat my surgically repaired shoulder.
The care I received could not have been more professional or considerate. I entered treatment in a great deal of pain and finished with a full range of motion. In the process I gained an appreciation for how difficult it is to treat this kind of problem.
Please accept my sincere appreciation for the way my treatment was handled and I will be happy to recommend the services of CORE for anyone with a similar problem. Please feel free to share this with the world."
Jim L. 3/09
"I could not have 'walked' again without the staff at CORE PT!! As a nurse I am on my feet during most of my working hours, and critically needed my foot surgery to be successful. My therapist knew I still had a problem and encouraged me to return to my M.D. Then I had a second surgery and physical therapy got me back walking!
In every injury I have always asked for physical therapy as soon as possible. CORE PT got me moving again from post-surgical apprehension to confidence.
I highly recommend the staff at CORE PT."
Jamie X. 3/09
"I have been coming to CORE PT for rehab on my knee. Not only are they a very professional outfit, they have a wonderful friendly atmosphere.
I would highly recommend CORE PT and consider myself lucky to have had them for my physical therapy."
Debbie D. 2/09
"I am writing to inform you of the excellent services provided to me by your staff regarding a 30 year old injury in my lower back. With strengthening exercises and techniques loosening my stiffened muscles, the therapist was able to solve a nasty problem for me (when I came, I had to use both of my hands to turn in bed!). Finally, the therapist was very professional and cordial, as was all of your staff."
Louise G. 12/08
"I started with Core Physical Therapy after shoulder surgery… the staff was friendly and very professional. They answered my concerns with their full attention. I am leaving with confidence and so much stronger… My therapist was extremely knowledgeable and pushed me when I needed it – I am very impressed!"
Melissa P. 08/08
"In November I had surgery for a torn labrum due to years of volleyball playing and one block too many. Surgery went well, but I ended up with a frozen shoulder - known as adhesive capsulitis. In late November I could not lift my arm at all, even opening the refrigerator was beyond my abilities. When I tried to lift my arm, my shoulder, arm and scapula all moved together in one piece and hardly at all. My doctor and a different physical therapist said it would be 18 months to 2 years before I would have full use of my arm and shoulder again - I was initially hoping to be back on the courts in two months from the surgery! I started working at Core Physical Therapy in San Rafael in late November…Over time I regained my complete range of motion - with very little pain at physical therapy…now I can do nearly everything I could before surgery - I played my first volleyball game the first week of May. I still have some strength to build up in my shoulder before I am really smashing the ball again, but everything works! Thanks to all the folks at Core Physical Therapy"
Brenda G. 05/08
"Working with (Core) professionals resulted in greater mobility, a decreased need for pain medications, and the return to a productive life"
Marcia M. 03/08
"Many thanks for your kindness and patience through my painful and challenging ankle rehabilitation…"
Francine M. 03/08
"I want to thank your staff for the excellent care I received. All performed wonderfully from the front office to the therapists…"
Craig G. 02/08
"This is a top-notch PT group – and I have seen many. From front desk to PTs, everyone is extremely personable, professional, knowledgeable, and shows genuine concern for the patient. The facility itself is very clean with state-of-the-art equipment and modalities. I would never go anywhere else!"
Candy K. 10/07
"I want you all to know how much I valued each one of you as you worked with both of my knees after ACL and right knee replacement. You all know "your stuff" and I learned so much about muscles and exercises, thinking I knew it all after being a "jock" all these years. Thanks again for the rehab, all your good advice, and the very best to each one of you…"
Nick L. 05/07
