Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Physical Therapy in San Francisco
Scarpelli & Kakehashi Physical Therapy has been a trusted leader in orthopedic manual physical therapy for over 30 years. Our practice is built on a foundation of personalized, one-on-one care delivered in private rooms by highly skilled therapists. We specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions through tailored treatment plans that integrate manual therapy, posture correction, and targeted exercise programs. Our team collaborates closely with patients' healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care focused on long-term musculoskeletal health. Recognized as Top 3 Physical Therapists in San Francisco by Three Best Rated, we maintain a strong commitment to excellence through continuous professional development and mentorship.Our legacy of innovation includes pioneering approaches to pre-sport training, post-surgical rehabilitation, and chronic pain management. We prioritize patient education and empowerment, ensuring individuals understand their conditions and treatment pathways. Our facility in San Francisco's Castro District combines accessibility with a welcoming environment for safe, effective recovery. We maintain rigorous safety protocols, including staff vaccination and flexible mask policies, to protect both patients and team members. This dedication to quality care has earned us multiple awards, including the San Francisco Outstanding Clinic Award and Patients Choice Award.
Services
Physical Therapy
Musculoskeletal Treatment
Sports Injury Recovery
Pre-Surgical Assessment
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
Balance Training
Core Strengthening
Online Classes
Workers' Compensation Care
Insurance Assistance
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in orthopedic manual physical therapy
- Our team provides one-on-one personalized treatment in private rooms
- We collaborate with healthcare providers for comprehensive care plans
- Recognized as Top 3 Physical Therapists in San Francisco by Three Best Rated
- We maintain rigorous safety protocols with fully vaccinated staff
What people say
Personalized treatment plans
Experienced knowledgeable staff
Effective pain relief results
Supportive healing environment
Thorough patient education
Services
Musculoskeletal Dysfunction Treatment
We specialize in treating joint pain from arthritis, posture issues, scoliosis, and injuries through manual therapy and targeted exercise programs. Our approach addresses both symptoms and underlying causes to restore mobility and reduce chronic pain. Patients receive personalized treatment plans developed through comprehensive assessments by experienced physical therapists.
Sports Injury Recovery
Our sports injury treatment focuses on sprains, strains, fractures, and muscle tears with evidence-based rehabilitation protocols. We combine manual therapy with functional movement training to restore athletic performance and prevent re-injury. Treatment includes neuromuscular assessment and sport-specific conditioning for safe return to activity.
Pre-Sport Training
We offer specialized training programs for adolescents and teens focusing on proper biomechanics, jump/landing techniques, and sport-specific conditioning. Our pre-season assessments identify risk factors for injury in soccer, skiing, pitching, and overhead sports. Programs include neuromuscular training to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.
Balance and Movement Training
This program addresses balance deficits and gait instability through strength training and proprioception exercises. Weekly Zoom classes focus on improving spatial awareness and preventing falls in older adults. Initial assessments identify specific mobility limitations, with progressive training tailored to individual functional needs.
Core & Flexible Spine Class
Led by physical therapists, this class teaches core activation techniques and spinal mobility exercises. Participants learn to improve posture and reduce back pain through controlled movement patterns. The program combines education with practical training to enhance spinal stability and flexibility for daily activities.
People
Elizabeth Scarpelli
Founder
Elizabeth Scarpelli founded the practice in 1993 and mentored over 30 PTs. She served as senior instructor at Kaiser Hayward PT Residency for 20+ years and continues teaching specialized workshops after retiring in 2025.
Dr. Cynthia Rose Koch
Senior PT, Owner
Dr. Cynthia Koch specializes in orthopedic spine and sports injuries. She teaches yoga and is certified in pelvic floor therapy. As current owner since 2025, she brings expertise in manual therapy and integrative treatment approaches.
Niki Naumchik
Office Manager
Niki Naumchik manages client services and insurance navigation. She ensures smooth operations while focusing on making healthcare logistics accessible and stress-free for patients seeking physical therapy services.
Questions
What physical therapy services do you offer?
We treat musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, pre/post-surgical cases, and balance issues. Specialized programs include core strengthening and injury prevention training.
Do you accept insurance?
We're in-network with Blue Shield of California and Medicare starting November 1st. For other plans, we provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.
Are virtual therapy options available?
Yes, we offer online balance and movement classes via Zoom. Initial evaluations and follow-up visits are available in-person at our Castro District location.
What makes your practice different?
We provide one-on-one care in private rooms with experienced therapists, avoiding group sessions or aides. Our team approach collaborates with your healthcare providers.
Do you offer discounted treatment packages?
Yes, we have discounted packages for multiple visits ranging from 6 to 20 sessions with valid 1-year terms for long-term care needs.
Reviews (1)
Glen Loutey
Nov 27, 2024
Report
After seeing Achilles/ankle specialists at both Stanford and UCSF told treatment essentially exhausted with functional mobility persisting. Within minutes Liz diagnosed mechanical issue resulting in great results owing to above combined with hands on gifted care.
- the best!!
- the best!!
