Physical Therapy
A gentle, non-invasive therapy that promotes healing, restores balance, and builds strength. It helps reduce discomfort, improve range of motion, and support a healthier, more active lifestyle.
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Comprehensive Physical Therapy Care for Better Mobility and Function
At Bissell Clinic in Santa Barbara, CA, we address neurological, muscular, and skeletal conditions. Our therapies can help improve your range of motion and quality of life. Call (805) 565-5252 today to schedule your personalized physical therapy consultation and take the first step toward better mobility.
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Physical Therapy
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Benefits of Physical Therapy
Pain Management
- Reduced dependence on pain medications
- Natural pain relief techniques
- Long-term pain management strategies
Improved Function
- Enhanced mobility and flexibility
- Increased strength and endurance
- Better balance and coordination
- Improved quality of life
Injury Prevention
- Education on proper body mechanics
- Strengthening of vulnerable areas
- Movement pattern correction
- Risk factor identification and modification
Post-Surgical Recovery
- Faster healing and recovery times
- Reduced risk of complications
- Improved surgical outcomes
- Earlier return to normal activities
Chronic Condition Management
- Symptom management and relief
- Maintenance of functional abilities
- Prevention of condition progression
- Improved overall health and wellness
Our Treatment Philosophy
Comprehensive Evaluation Process
- Medical History Review: Complete analysis of your medical records, previous injuries, and current symptoms
- Physical Assessment: Comprehensive testing of strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination
- Functional Movement Analysis: Evaluation of how you move during daily activities
- Postural Analysis: Assessment of alignment and biomechanical efficiency
- Pain Assessment: Detailed understanding of your pain patterns and triggers
- Goal Setting: Collaborative establishment of realistic, measurable treatment objectives
Treatment Methods and Modalities
Manual Therapy
- Joint mobilization and manipulation
- Soft tissue massage and myofascial release
- Trigger point therapy
- Cupping
- Neural mobilization techniques
- PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) patterns
Therapeutic Exercise
- Strength training and conditioning
- Flexibility and mobility exercises
- Balance and coordination training
- Functional movement training
- Core stabilization programs
- Sport-specific rehabilitation
Advanced Modalities
- Heat and cold therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical muscle stimulation
- Therapeutic ultrasound
Specialty Physical Therapy Programs
Private Exercise Sessions
- Pilates reformer
- Cardiovascular equipment (stationary bike)
- Free weights and resistance training equipment
- Fitness balls and stability training tools
- Free motion weight machines
- Functional movement training equipment
Senior Fitness and Wellness Programs
- Improved strength and endurance
- Enhanced balance and coordination
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Better cardiovascular health
- Reduced risk of falls and injuries
- Greater independence in daily activities
- Improved mental health and cognitive function
Fall Prevention and Balance Training
- Strength Training: Targeted exercises to improve lower extremity and core strength
- Balance Enhancement: Static and dynamic balance training using various surfaces and challenges
- Flexibility Improvement: Stretching routines to maintain joint range of motion
- Gait Training: Walking pattern analysis and correction
- Environmental Assessment: Home safety evaluation and recommendations
- Education: Understanding fall risk factors and prevention strategies
Sport-Specific Training for Active Adults
- Identify Muscle Imbalances: Comprehensive assessment of sport-specific movement patterns
- Corrective Exercise Prescription: Targeted stretching for tight muscles and strengthening for weak areas
- Performance Enhancement: Techniques to improve sport-specific skills and endurance
- Injury Prevention: Education and conditioning to reduce injury risk
- Return-to-Sport Protocols: Safe progression back to full activity after injury
Senior Fitness Testing
- Cardiovascular endurance
- Upper and lower body strength
- Flexibility and range of motion
- Balance and coordination
- Body composition analysis
- Functional movement screening
Conditions We Treat
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
- Knee Surgery Recovery: Total and partial knee replacements, ACL reconstruction, and meniscus repair
- Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation: Rotator cuff repairs, shoulder replacements, and arthroscopic procedures
- Ankle and Foot Surgery: Fracture repairs, tendon reconstruction, and joint replacement
- Hip Surgery Recovery: Hip replacements, labral repairs, and fracture rehabilitation
- Spine Surgery Rehabilitation: Fusion procedures, disc surgeries, and decompression procedures
Neurological Conditions
- Stroke recovery and rehabilitation
- Parkinson's disease management
- Multiple sclerosis symptom management
- Balance and vestibular disorders
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Brain injury recovery
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Rotator cuff injuries and tears
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Shoulder instability
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Osteoarthritis management
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- IT band syndrome
- Meniscus injuries
- Ligament sprains and tears
- Chronic low back pain
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Sciatica and nerve pain
- Cervical dysfunction
- Postural disorders
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Hip pain and dysfunction
- Plantar fasciitis and foot pain
- Tennis and golfer's elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic pain conditions
Specialized Assessment and Treatment Protocols
Rotator Cuff Impingement Management
- Advanced imaging interpretation
- Detailed subjective assessment
- Shoulder and scapular range of motion evaluation
- Strength testing using objective measurements
- Postural analysis and correction
- Manual therapy techniques, including soft tissue massage and joint mobilization
- Progressive therapeutic exercise program
- Patient education on home management strategies
Knee Osteoarthritis Program
- Comprehensive joint assessment
- Strength evaluation of the surrounding muscle groups
- Balance and proprioception testing
- Manual therapy for pain relief and mobility
- Targeted strengthening of core, hip, and lower extremity muscles
- Balance training and fall prevention
- Activity modification and joint protection education
Low Back Pain Treatment
- Identification of underlying mechanical dysfunctions
- Soft tissue assessment and treatment
- Spinal mobility and strength evaluation
- Manual therapy, including deep tissue massage and joint mobilization
- Core strengthening and stabilization training
- Postural re-education and ergonomic training
- Pain management education and techniques
What to Expect During Treatment
Initial Consultation
Treatment Sessions
- Hands-on manual therapy techniques
- Guided therapeutic exercises
- Education on home exercise programs
- Application of therapeutic modalities
- Progress assessment and plan modifications
Home Exercise Program
Progress Monitoring
Getting Started
What to Bring to Your First Appointment:
- Photo identification
- Insurance cards
- List of current medications
- Any recent imaging results (X-rays, MRI, etc.)
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Athletic shoes
- List of questions or concerns
Preparing for Success:
- Come with realistic expectations about your recovery timeline
- Be prepared to actively participate in your treatment
- Maintain open communication with your therapist
- Follow through with home exercise programs
- Stay committed to the treatment plan
About Us
Your Destination for Whole-Body Wellness and Healing
At Bissell Clinic, we believe true wellness starts from within. With nearly 30 years of experience, our clinic has earned a trusted reputation for patient-centered care in the heart of Santa Barbara. Led by Dr. Charles Bissell, a respected chiropractor known for his passion for natural healing, our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to helping you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized through personalized treatment plans and proven therapies. From advanced chiropractic and physical therapy to innovative wellness services, we’re here to support your journey toward a more vibrant, fulfilling life.
Why Choose Bissell
Latest Research and Techniques
We stay at the forefront of the chiropractic and wellness field by continually integrating the latest research-backed methods into our practice. Our team is committed to ongoing education and advanced training to ensure you receive safe, effective care that reflects today’s best practices.
Warm and Inviting Environment
From the moment you walk through the door, our friendly team takes the time to get to know you and ensures your visits are timely and comfortable. Located in Montecito’s charming Upper Village, our beautifully designed space provides a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We utilize advanced equipment and modern technology to deliver precise, high-quality care tailored to your specific needs. This allows us to assess your condition more effectively and offer targeted treatments that support faster, more lasting results for optimal recovery.
Customized Care
Every treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Dr. Bissell takes the time to understand your condition and recommends only what’s necessary, never over-treating or suggesting services that aren’t truly beneficial to your recovery.
Real Patient Experiences
– Juli G.
Get Expert Guidance for Lasting Recovery and Performance
Ready to take the next step toward recovery and improved function? Our experienced physical therapy team is here to help you achieve your goals and return to the activities you love.
We’re available for same-day appointments when possible. Contact our team to discuss your specific needs and begin your journey toward better health and improved function.
FAQs
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