◈ Homepage — https://www.thelabdoctors.com/SKIP TO CONTENT HOME ABOUT LOCATIONS ACADEMIA BOOK NOW DOWNTOWN LA / BEVERLY HILLS MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED Physical therapy. By doctors of physical therapy. Serving Los Angeles, The LAB provides physical therapy services only by licensed doctors of physical therapy. More face time. Faster results. No questions unanswered. Learn more Accessible innovation. State-of-the-art facility combines technology and research-based practice to craft a highly individualized program for a better, healthier you. Learn more No prescription? No problem. Under the Direct Access Bill, you may be eligible to receive physical therapy services without a prescription. No hassle, no waiting in line. Just awesomeness at its best. Learn more Featured Headaches from neck pain: should physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches look beyond the cervical spine? Can posture and shoulder blade position drive headaches from neck pain? We break down the research and what it means for your treatment. May 7, 2026 Should you treat the hip for low back pain? Does treating the hip improve low back pain? A 2021 randomized trial shows no added benefit. Learn what actually drives recovery and effective physical therapy. April 18, 2026 Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? A 2025 randomized clinical trial shows strengthening exercises alone are just as effective as adding proprioception for treating rotator cuff–related shoulder pain. July 4, 2025 The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. ◈ Interior Pages — 17 pages crawledAbout The LAB Physical Therapy - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now AT THE LAB The LAB Defined. Los Angeles Biomechanics. The LAB staff specializes in the science of movement, setting up shop in Downtown LA and Beverly Hills. The LAB owners are doctorate-level physical therapists from USC, the top-rated PT school in the nation since 2004 . We answer your call and right to the best quality of care. Tailored regimes. Collaborating sophisticated technology with innovative intervention plans, the LAB has a particular attention to detail. A unique plan for a unique you. We're not fans of recycled programs that are otherwise generalized and mundane. Our doctors work with your individual needs to design unique and specific rehabilitation programs for a most efficient recovery.  Learn more about our methods here .  Learn for longevity. The LAB clinic prioritizes patient education, using movement analysis and testing to back our findings and facilitate understanding of what's really going on with your body. Why? Because heightened self-awareness means lasting results. Pure and simple. The LAB does its homework. We stay up-to-date with research-based practice. Check out our Academia section as we peruse recent research and apply it to daily living. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Los Angeles Physical Therapy FAQ - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now FAQ What conditions do you treat? We treat orthopedics and sports conditions, including all musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, postural deficiencies, pregnancy and postpartum issues, running and gait problems, vestibular/balance conditions and chronic pain. We also offer injury prevention and performance optimization. How long is each appointment and how often do I need to come? Both initial evaluations and follow-up sessions are up to 60 minutes long. Most patients attend sessions anywhere between one to three times a week, but we tailor the schedule to your goals, progress, and personal circumstances. Do I need a doctor’s referral for physical therapy in California? No. California is a direct-access state, which means you can begin physical therapy without a physician’s referral. We communicate with your doctor as needed and will refer you out if your condition requires further medical evaluation. Do you accept insurance, and how does out-of-network billing work? We accept PPO insurance, and we are not contracted with most insurance companies. This allows us to provide competitive rates without compromising quality of care. As part of our white glove service, we will provide you transparent rates prior to scheduling by verifying your insurance details first. To get started in finding out your exact rates, follow the instructions here . We will also submit the insurance claims and deal with the headaches on your behalf. Lastly, no surprise bills ever. Can I still receive services if I don't have a specific injury? Yes. Many patients visit us without a specific injury, simply seeking an assessment or routine “tune-up” sessions. This proactive approach, known as preventative care or prehabilitation, helps identify potential issues early and maintain optimal physical health. What should I wear to a physical therapy session? Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows free movement and easy access to the area we are treating. Athletic shoes are also recommended. Do you offer telehealth or virtual physical therapy? Yes. For certain injuries and follow-up care, we provide telehealth visits so you can receive expert guidance from home or while traveling. We recommend this feature as an adjunct to in-person physical therapy care. Click here for more info. Is parking available? Each clinic location has detailed parking instructions that will be provided upon scheduling your first appointment. What makes your clinic different from typical PT offices? Our sessions are always one-on-one with staff, focusing on manual therapy, biomechanics, and custom exercise programming. This model allows longer appointment times and faster, more personalized results. We stick to what works using evidence-based practice. Our USC-grad therapists received their education from the #1 rated physical therapy program in the country. So forgive us if we occasionally nerd out mid-session. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy - Physical Therapy Los Angeles 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Slide 1 Slide 1 (current slide) DOWNTOWN LA / BEVERLY HILLS MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED Slide 1 Slide 1 (current slide) Slide 2 Slide 2 (current slide) Slide 3 Slide 3 (current slide) Slide 4 Slide 4 (current slide) Slide 5 Slide 5 (current slide) Physical therapy. By doctors of physical therapy. Serving Los Angeles, The LAB provides physical therapy services only by licensed doctors of physical therapy. More face time. Faster results. No questions unanswered. Learn more Accessible innovation. State-of-the-art facility combines technology and research-based practice to craft a highly individualized program for a better, healthier you. Learn more No prescription? No problem. Under the Direct Access Bill, you may be eligible to receive physical therapy services without a prescription. No hassle, no waiting in line. Just awesomeness at its best. Learn more Featured May 7, 2026 Headaches from neck pain: should physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches look beyond the cervical spine? May 7, 2026 Can posture and shoulder blade position drive headaches from neck pain? We break down the research and what it means for your treatment. May 7, 2026 April 18, 2026 Should you treat the hip for low back pain? April 18, 2026 Does treating the hip improve low back pain? A 2021 randomized trial shows no added benefit. Learn what actually drives recovery and effective physical therapy. April 18, 2026 July 4, 2025 Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? July 4, 2025 A 2025 randomized clinical trial shows strengthening exercises alone are just as effective as adding proprioception for treating rotator cuff–related shoulder pain. July 4, 2025 Slide 1 Slide 1 (current slide) The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Career Opportunities at The LAB Physical Therapy - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now CAREER Join the elite. The LAB is always looking for talented professionals to join the dream team. Whether you're a PT, PTA, aide or a volunteer in need of some exposure to the field, there's always room for learning here. Submit your resume and desired job position to [email protected] with header "Career Opportunity"  for immediate consideration.      The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy - Academia - Low Back Pain and Hip Impairments: Does Treating the Hip Improve Outcomes? 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Should you treat the hip for low back pain? Apr 18 Written By Michael Choe Low back pain continues to be one of the most common reasons patients seek physical therapy. The more concerning issue is that non-specific low back pain, which accounts for approximately 90% of all low back cases, is widely under diagnosed due to the complexity of the region. Once red flags and specific mechanisms of injury are excluded, any combination of musculoskeletal, neurological and psychosocial factors can elicit symptoms in the low back. Recently, there has been a growing emphasis on the role of the hip, particularly when patients present with limited mobility, weakness or asymmetries. In the clinical setting, it is now common to hear that “tight hips are causing your back pain”, or “weak glutes are the problem.” But an important question remains. Does treating the hip actually improve outcomes in patients with low back pain? A 2021 randomized controlled trial published by Burns et al set out to answer this directly. The study This randomized controlled trial study evaluated whether adding hip-specific treatment to standard low back physical therapy led to better outcomes. Participants were 76 adults with 1) low back pain and 2) concurrent hip impairments, which included mobility and/or strength deficits of the hip. These participants were then divided into two groups: Group 1 was given Lumbar Treatment Only (LBO). Group 2 was given both Lumbar + Hip Treatment (LBH). Both groups received standard physical therapy for the low back, including 1) exercise, 2) manual therapy and 3) patient education. The hip-treatment group received additional interventions, including 1) hip strengthening, 2) mobility work and 3) manual therapy targeting the hip. It is important to note that the lumbar treatment was not strictly standardized—it was based on clinician judgment, reflecting real-world physical therapy practice. Outcome measures included 1) pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), 2) disability (Oswestry Disability Index), 3) fear-avoidance beliefs, and 4) functional improvement. Patient follow-up was obtained at baseline, 2 weeks, discharge, 6 months and 12 months post-intervention. The results Both LBO and LBH groups improved significantly over time, but there was no additional benefit from hip treatment. In other words, there were no meaningful differences between groups at any time point. The interesting finding, however, was that the group receiving additional hip treatment had higher fear-avoidance beliefs at 2 weeks and discharge. This subtlety may suggest that additional treatment may not necessarily improve patient confidence or outcomes. Limitations of the study: 1) variability in treatment approaches. The details of low back treatment were not included, and it was based on therapist discretion to mimic real-world applications. However, without standardization of what low back care entailed, we do not know whether there were inadvertently hip-involved interventions used within the LBO group. 2) The study was not blinded, meaning that patients and therapists knew which group they were placed under. This increased the risk of both observer and participant expectation bias, which could vastly affect the results. 3) The education aspect of care, while directed to be centered around the low back, may have also included the hip. 4) Small sample size and missing data at follow-up. Clinical implications for physical therapists At first glance, the study’s findings challenge the common assumption that, “if the hip is impaired, treating it will improve low back pain.” Rather yet, the study suggests that identifying and addressing a hip impairment does not necessarily benefit low back pain, and that improvements may be driven more by general movement, load tolerance and gradual return to activity. The conclusions of the study suggest that, for most patients with low back pain, focusing treatment on the spine alone may be sufficient—even when hip deficits are present. But were the participants in the “low back only” group truly receiving treatment exclusive to the low back? Learning lumbopelvic awareness through a cat-cow exercise will also affect movements in the hip. Education on protection of the low back includes promoting movement in the hip to offload the spine. Even without targeted hip interventions, it is unlikely the hip was truly ignored. Unless we know that the experiment’s “low back only” group was truly limited to the lumbar spine (ie. core strengthening, spinal mobilizations) we should be cautious to jump to the conclusion that focusing on spine alone suffices. Nonetheless, the study does provide standard procedures for the participants who received additional hip treatment. This included specific manual therapy procedures and a progressive exercise protocol for the hip. And even so, this group did not perform better than the other, strengthening the conclusion that adding hip-specific work does not necessarily provide additional benefit. The focus is then as such: More is not always better. The goal is precision, not excess. Overcomplicating care can reduce clarity for the patient and shift focus away from meaningful progress. Therefore, while a patient can indeed have “tight hips”, “weak glutes”, or “muscle imbalances”, these are not always the primary drivers of pain. Training hip stability and mobility have almost become synonymous with low back pain protocols, and it’s important that we take a step back and acknowledge the distinction between the two. Final thoughts? This study reinforces an important yet forgotten principle in rehabilitation: effective treatment is not about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most. At The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy, we build an evidence-based treatment program that is both effective and efficient. Click here to learn more about our services. Citations 1.) Burns SA, Cleland JA, Rivett DA, O’Hara MC, Egan W, Pandya J, Snodgrass SJ. When treating coexisting low back pain and hip impairments, focus on the back: adding specific hip treatment does not yield additional benefits: a randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(12):581-601. low back pain chronic low back pain physical therapy Michael Choe Previous Previous Headaches from neck pain: should physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches look beyond the cervical spine? Next Next Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. About The LAB Physical Therapy - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now AT THE LAB The LAB Defined. Los Angeles Biomechanics. The LAB staff specializes in the science of movement, setting up shop in Downtown LA and Beverly Hills. The LAB owners are doctorate-level physical therapists from USC, the top-rated PT school in the nation since 2004 . We answer your call and right to the best quality of care. Tailored regimes. Collaborating sophisticated technology with innovative intervention plans, the LAB has a particular attention to detail. A unique plan for a unique you. We're not fans of recycled programs that are otherwise generalized and mundane. Our doctors work with your individual needs to design unique and specific rehabilitation programs for a most efficient recovery.  Learn more about our methods here .  Learn for longevity. The LAB clinic prioritizes patient education, using movement analysis and testing to back our findings and facilitate understanding of what's really going on with your body. Why? Because heightened self-awareness means lasting results. Pure and simple. The LAB does its homework. We stay up-to-date with research-based practice. Check out our Academia section as we peruse recent research and apply it to daily living. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy in Beverly Hills - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now BEVERLY HILLS 9350 WILSHIRE BLVD #224 / LOS ANGELES, CA 90212 MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED 310.734.7203 / [email protected] Our brand new Beverly Hills location is located on the corner of Wilshire Blvd and Crescent Dr, eastern tip of the Golden Triangle in Beverly Hills. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Services provided Orthopedic physical therapy This discipline focuses on the diagnosis and management of conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A few examples of orthopedic conditions include ankle sprains, lower back pain, ACL reconstruction, neck stiffness and rotator cuff pathology. Sports physical therapy This specialized area of physical therapy focuses on preventing, evaluating, and treating injuries related to athletic activities. It aims to help athletes of all levels recover from injuries, enhance performance, and safely return to their sport. Movement analysis The process of studying the biomechanics of how a person moves in order to identify abnormal patterns, imbalances, or limitations that may contribute to pain or injury. This movement can be a squat, overhead reach, a lifting task, etc. This information helps guide personalized treatment plans to improve movement quality, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Postural tune-up Its purpose is to assess, treat and improve, well, posture. It seeks to identify muscle imbalances, joint restrictions, and movement habits that contribute to poor posture or discomfort. Through targeted exercises, stretching, and manual techniques, a postural tune-up helps realign the body, improve posture awareness, reduce strain, and prevent injury, which in turn promotes better movement and overall function. Manual therapy A wide array of hands-on techniques used by physical therapists to assess and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It includes methods like joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function. Click here for more info. Personal training Consists of a customized exercise program, designed and tailored to an individual’s goals, fitness level, and needs. The exercises may focus on increasing mobility, strength, muscular hypertrophy, power or endurance. Corrective exercise Targeted approach to improving movement patterns, posture, and muscle imbalances that may lead to pain or injury. It involves specific stretches, strengthening, and mobility exercises designed to restore proper function and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Running analysis A detailed evaluation of a runner’s form, mechanics, and movement patterns to identify inefficiencies or potential injury risks. It typically includes video analysis, strength and flexibility testing, and gait analysis, helping guide personalized recommendations to improve performance and reduce pain or injury. Balance restoration Focuses on improving stability, mobility, coordination, and body awareness to correct any asymmetries that can cause future injury. It is a form of preventative care, nipping problems in the bud before they become even bigger issues. Therapeutic taping Used to support muscles and joints, reduce pain, and improve movement without restricting mobility. It can help guide proper motion and enhance body awareness during activity and recovery. Pre-operative / post-operative rehabilitation Pre-op rehab focuses on gaining as much strength and mobility as possible prior to surgery to ensure that post-op recovery goes as smoothly as possible. Post-op rehab focuses on regaining lost mobility and strength from the surgery, and continues until the patient’s goals are met. Examples of surgeries include ACL reconstruction, Bankart repair, ORIF of fractured bone, lumbar microdiscectomy, etc. Return to sport A phase of rehabilitation focused on safely transitioning an athlete back to their sport after injury. It involves sport-specific training, strength and mobility work, and functional testing to ensure the athlete is physically and mentally ready to perform at their best while minimizing the risk of re-injury. Vestibular rehabilitation A specialized form of physical therapy designed to treat balance and dizziness problems caused by inner ear disorders. It involves exercises and techniques to improve the brain’s ability to process signals from the vestibular system, helping patients regain balance, reduce dizziness, and improve coordination. Your BH team   The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy in Downtown Los Angeles - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now DOWNTOWN LA 700 WILSHIRE BLVD #505 / LOS ANGELES, CA 90017 MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED 213.788.7484 / [email protected] The LAB DTLA is located on the corner of Wilshire Blvd and Hope St in Financial District, Downtown Los Angeles, directly across the street from the Aon Center. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Services provided Orthopedic physical therapy This discipline focuses on the diagnosis and management of conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A few examples of orthopedic conditions include ankle sprains, lower back pain, ACL reconstruction, neck stiffness and rotator cuff pathology. Sports physical therapy This specialized area of physical therapy focuses on preventing, evaluating, and treating injuries related to athletic activities. It aims to help athletes of all levels recover from injuries, enhance performance, and safely return to their sport. Running assessment A detailed evaluation of a runner’s form, mechanics, and movement patterns to identify inefficiencies or potential injury risks. It typically includes video analysis, strength and flexibility testing, and gait analysis, helping guide personalized recommendations to improve performance and reduce pain or injury. Movement analysis The process of studying the biomechanics of how a person moves in order to identify abnormal patterns, imbalances, or limitations that may contribute to pain or injury. This movement can be a squat, overhead reach, a lifting task, etc. This information helps guide personalized treatment plans to improve movement quality, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Postural tune-up Its purpose is to assess, treat and improve, well, posture. It seeks to identify muscle imbalances, joint restrictions, and movement habits that contribute to poor posture or discomfort. Through targeted exercises, stretching, and manual techniques, a postural tune-up helps realign the body, improve posture awareness, reduce strain, and prevent injury, which in turn promotes better movement and overall function. Manual therapy A wide array of hands-on techniques used by physical therapists to assess and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It includes methods like joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function. Click here for more info. Personal training Consists of a customized exercise program, designed and tailored to an individual’s goals, fitness level, and needs. The exercises may focus on increasing mobility, strength, muscular hypertrophy, power or endurance. Corrective exercise Targeted approach to improving movement patterns, posture, and muscle imbalances that may lead to pain or injury. It involves specific stretches, strengthening, and mobility exercises designed to restore proper function and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Balance restoration Focuses on improving stability, mobility, coordination, and body awareness to correct any asymmetries that can cause future injury. It is a form of preventative care, nipping problems in the bud before they become even bigger issues. Therapeutic taping Used to support muscles and joints, reduce pain, and improve movement without restricting mobility. It can help guide proper motion and enhance body awareness during activity and recovery. Pre-operative / post-operative rehabilitation Pre-op rehab focuses on gaining as much strength and mobility as possible prior to surgery to ensure that post-op recovery goes as smoothly as possible. Post-op rehab focuses on regaining lost mobility and strength from the surgery, and continues until the patient’s goals are met. Examples of surgeries include ACL reconstruction, Bankart repair, ORIF of fractured bone, lumbar microdiscectomy, etc. Return to sport A phase of rehabilitation focused on safely transitioning an athlete back to their sport after injury. It involves sport-specific training, strength and mobility work, and functional testing to ensure the athlete is physically and mentally ready to perform at their best while minimizing the risk of re-injury. Vestibular rehabilitation A specialized form of physical therapy designed to treat balance and dizziness problems caused by inner ear disorders. It involves exercises and techniques to improve the brain’s ability to process signals from the vestibular system, helping patients regain balance, reduce dizziness, and improve coordination. Your DTLA team   The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy Services Provided - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now SERVICES Movement Analysis. Our bread and butter. Utilizing a biomechanical approach, treatment plans are designed after tracking faulty positional and movement patterns that are assessed and reassessed from Day 1 to finish. The LAB facility houses treatment stations and a medically oriented gym that is monitored 24/7 by doctors of physical therapy. Doctors always onboard, no M.I.A.s. Learn more Corrective Exercise. Whether you're grinding in the office, recovering from an injury or coming straight out of surgery, The LAB designs an exercise program targeting specific muscle groups to either meet your personal goals or counterbalance the kinks that come with the daily life.  Learn more Manual Therapy. Licensed hands only, no machine substitute. Targeted soft tissue mobilization, peripheral neuromuscular facilitation, joint alignment, postural tune-up and/or manual stretching to help you reach your goals, whether it be improving flexibility, optimizing functional performance, or simply maintaining to make sure everything stays right. Learn more Integration. Bringing it all together. You and your physical therapist will plan on how to modify or correct everyday activities to make sure you stay biomechanically friendly, integrating everything taught at The LAB. Long-term results is what it's all about. Virtual Therapy. Can’t make it in person? Opt for online sessions with The LAB in the comfort of your home. Create a collaborative exercise program. Improve your ergonomic setup. Get educated with real answers—not those from the Internet. Learn more The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy in Downtown Los Angeles - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now DOWNTOWN LA 700 WILSHIRE BLVD #505 / LOS ANGELES, CA 90017 MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED 213.788.7484 / [email protected] The LAB DTLA is located on the corner of Wilshire Blvd and Hope St in Financial District, Downtown Los Angeles, directly across the street from the Aon Center. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Services provided Orthopedic physical therapy This discipline focuses on the diagnosis and management of conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A few examples of orthopedic conditions include ankle sprains, lower back pain, ACL reconstruction, neck stiffness and rotator cuff pathology. Sports physical therapy This specialized area of physical therapy focuses on preventing, evaluating, and treating injuries related to athletic activities. It aims to help athletes of all levels recover from injuries, enhance performance, and safely return to their sport. Running assessment A detailed evaluation of a runner’s form, mechanics, and movement patterns to identify inefficiencies or potential injury risks. It typically includes video analysis, strength and flexibility testing, and gait analysis, helping guide personalized recommendations to improve performance and reduce pain or injury. Movement analysis The process of studying the biomechanics of how a person moves in order to identify abnormal patterns, imbalances, or limitations that may contribute to pain or injury. This movement can be a squat, overhead reach, a lifting task, etc. This information helps guide personalized treatment plans to improve movement quality, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Postural tune-up Its purpose is to assess, treat and improve, well, posture. It seeks to identify muscle imbalances, joint restrictions, and movement habits that contribute to poor posture or discomfort. Through targeted exercises, stretching, and manual techniques, a postural tune-up helps realign the body, improve posture awareness, reduce strain, and prevent injury, which in turn promotes better movement and overall function. Manual therapy A wide array of hands-on techniques used by physical therapists to assess and treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It includes methods like joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function. Click here for more info. Personal training Consists of a customized exercise program, designed and tailored to an individual’s goals, fitness level, and needs. The exercises may focus on increasing mobility, strength, muscular hypertrophy, power or endurance. Corrective exercise Targeted approach to improving movement patterns, posture, and muscle imbalances that may lead to pain or injury. It involves specific stretches, strengthening, and mobility exercises designed to restore proper function and enhance overall performance. Click here for more info. Balance restoration Focuses on improving stability, mobility, coordination, and body awareness to correct any asymmetries that can cause future injury. It is a form of preventative care, nipping problems in the bud before they become even bigger issues. Therapeutic taping Used to support muscles and joints, reduce pain, and improve movement without restricting mobility. It can help guide proper motion and enhance body awareness during activity and recovery. Pre-operative / post-operative rehabilitation Pre-op rehab focuses on gaining as much strength and mobility as possible prior to surgery to ensure that post-op recovery goes as smoothly as possible. Post-op rehab focuses on regaining lost mobility and strength from the surgery, and continues until the patient’s goals are met. Examples of surgeries include ACL reconstruction, Bankart repair, ORIF of fractured bone, lumbar microdiscectomy, etc. Return to sport A phase of rehabilitation focused on safely transitioning an athlete back to their sport after injury. It involves sport-specific training, strength and mobility work, and functional testing to ensure the athlete is physically and mentally ready to perform at their best while minimizing the risk of re-injury. Vestibular rehabilitation A specialized form of physical therapy designed to treat balance and dizziness problems caused by inner ear disorders. It involves exercises and techniques to improve the brain’s ability to process signals from the vestibular system, helping patients regain balance, reduce dizziness, and improve coordination. Your DTLA team   The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy Staff - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now STAFF Assemble. JOHN PENNELLA MICHAEL CHOE ART CARA MARCUS COLLINS The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Insurance Accepted at The LAB Physical Therapy - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now INSURANCE PPO We accept most PPO plans. Whether your insurance policy is in- or out-of-network, we will be more than happy to work with you. Follow the steps here to help us give you your exact visit rates. In a hurry without a prescription? Come on in. California is a direct access state and therefore does not require a physical therapy prescription.     The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Physical Therapy Online - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now PT ONLINE ZOOM PLATFORM MON-THU 9AM-7PM, FRI 9AM-2PM, SAT-SUN CLOSED 213.788.7484 / [email protected] Designed specifically for homebodies, nomads, and remote workers. Our virtual protocol provides opportunities for a more robust physical therapy and wellness care, including ergonomic assessment, movement analysis, collaborative exercise planning, or quick Q&A sessions to supplement rehabilitative care or enhance your workouts. Partnered with select corporate wellness programs, discounted rates may apply for certain insurance plans. Click here to check rates and make an appointment. Your virtual team The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy - Academia - Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? Jul 4 Written By Michael Choe What is rotator cuff-related shoulder pain? The rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis), whose primary role is to provide stability to the shoulder joint. Let’s put it this way: your shoulder joint is inherently the most unstable joint in the body, as it’s a ball-and-socket joint that is analogous to a golf ball on a tee. With that said, these four muscles of the rotator cuff must be not only be strong individually, but also as a unit that coordinates as a team to provide both static and dynamic stability to the shoulder as you move your arm about. Injury to one or more of these muscles can affect your arm’s ability to move in a bio-mechanically sound manner, translating to pain with movement over time. What’s the difference between proprioception and strengthening? Proprioception is your body’s ability to perceive joint awareness in space. Your central nervous system processes somatosensory input from receptors in your joints to produce motor output. This, for example, would allow you to catch yourself from rolling your ankle on some unforeseen rock while hiking on a trail. Strengthening, on the other hand, is providing a resistive stimulus that promotes increased force production through adaptation. When your muscle is physically taxed repeatedly over time, it will adapt and grow stronger to conform to demands. Research has shown favorable outcomes with incorporating both proprioceptive and strength training for patients with osteoarthritis or ankle sprains. This following study looks to see whether the same applies for rotator cuff-related shoulder injuries, which may shine some light on the most efficient physical therapy protocols for shoulder rehab. The study Buccioli et al in this 2025 study looks at whether there are any advantages of a combinatory program of proprioceptive and strength training versus strength training alone for subjects with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP). The study was a randomized controlled trial with two primary groups: Group 1 was given strengthening exercises alone (the control). Group 2 was given strengthening exercises plus proprioceptive training (the experimental). Both groups underwent training over the course of 8 weeks, with data collected at start of treatment, followed by 2 months and 5 months from start of intervention. Outcome measures included Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), pain (Visual Analog Scale), range of motion (ROM), isometric strength, and joint position sense (JPS). The results Both groups improved significantly in all outcomes measures, including SPADI, pain, ROM, strength and joint position sense Limitations: 1) The study didn’t include a non-intervention control group, which would have been nice to see whether the favorable outcome measures were indeed due to the allocated intervention versus just the natural healing progression of time. 2) The same physical therapist was used to treat both groups, increasing the risk for performance bias. However, since the hypothesis that proprioceptive training would yield better outcome measures was disproved based on the data of this study, it’s likely this bias was controlled to some degree. 3.) The 5-month follow-up had a 26% decreased follow-up in the control group, and 29% in the experimental group. Clinical implications for physical therapists For a more efficient treatment approach, it may suffice to focus on the strength training rather than dividing time between strength and proprioceptive training. By all means, though, this doesn’t undermine the importance of proprioceptive training. Rather yet, enhanced proprioception may occur while performing strength training, so it may be a two-birds-one-stone scenario. Put it this way: changes in motor output following proprioceptive exercise may either result from enhanced somatosensory information (which in turn improved motor output) or improved sensorimotor integration. Since the data from both groups shows increased proprioception post-intervention, it is possible that shoulder strengthening exercises alone can improve sensorimotor integration, which increases proprioception. Citations 1.) Buccioli V, van de Water A, van den Noort JC, et al. Proprioceptive exercises combined with strengthening exercises are not superior to strengthening exercises alone for shoulder pain and disability in individuals with chronic rotator cuff-related shoulder pain: a randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther . 2025;55(7):495–511. https://www.jospt.org/doi/10.2519/jospt.2025.13097. 2.) Aman JE, Elangovan N, Yeh IL, Konczak J. The effectiveness of proprioceptive training for improving motor function: a systematic review. Front Hum Neurosci. 2015;8:1075. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.01075. Michael Choe Previous Previous Should you treat the hip for low back pain? Next Next Ankle inversion sprains: the added benefits of manual therapy combined with stabilization exercises The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Make an Appointment - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now ALL ABOARD Let's get started.   I am going through insurance. To make things easy and fast, we'll verify your benefits for you to give you your visit rates prior to scheduling. In order to do so, we’ll need some basic information. For our DTLA location, click here. For our Beverly Hills location, click here . I am paying out-of-pocket. Got it. Please give us a call at your preferred location to review your rates and set up your first appointment. DTLA / 213.788.7484 Beverly Hills / 310.734.7203 The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. Academia - The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now ACADEMIA Welcome to enlightenment. At The LAB, we’re always learning. Here, you’ll find our research appraisals, opinions, and suggestions on trending topics. So feel free to browse and hopefully learn a thing or two. Scratch that curious itch.   Featured May 7, 2026 Headaches from neck pain: should physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches look beyond the cervical spine? May 7, 2026 Can posture and shoulder blade position drive headaches from neck pain? We break down the research and what it means for your treatment. Read more → May 7, 2026 April 18, 2026 Should you treat the hip for low back pain? April 18, 2026 Does treating the hip improve low back pain? A 2021 randomized trial shows no added benefit. Learn what actually drives recovery and effective physical therapy. Read more → April 18, 2026 July 4, 2025 Proprioception vs Strengthening: what works best for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain? July 4, 2025 A 2025 randomized clinical trial shows strengthening exercises alone are just as effective as adding proprioception for treating rotator cuff–related shoulder pain. Read more → July 4, 2025 December 10, 2023 Ankle inversion sprains: the added benefits of manual therapy combined with stabilization exercises December 10, 2023 This article looks at a study highlighting the benefits of a multi-modal approach to addressing ankle inversion sprains. Read more → December 10, 2023 March 13, 2022 Shoulder impingement: exercise versus exercise and manual therapy March 13, 2022 What is the best course of action for shoulder pain caused by subacromial impingement? This article compares exercise alone versus exercise and manual therapy on addressing this particular issue. Read more → March 13, 2022 February 10, 2022 Carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis: thumb pain and the role of physical therapy February 10, 2022 Carpometacarpal osteoarthritis are among one of many causes of thumb pain. This randomized controlled trial looks at the benefits of exercise and manual therapy on this problem. Read more → February 10, 2022 November 7, 2020 Maternal weight gain and gestational diabetes: exercise during pregnancy November 7, 2020 Excessive maternal weight gain and gestational diabetes mellitus are among a number of conditions that can occur during pregnancy. This article looks at a study analyzing the effects of exercise during prenatal care. Read more → November 7, 2020 November 1, 2020 Hip impingement: hip-targeted exercise versus hip-targeted exercise with trunk stabilization November 1, 2020 Femoroacetabular hip impingement (FAI), best described as a pinching anterior hip pain. This article looks at another means of addressing the problem on top of the standard hip strengthening protocol. Read more → November 1, 2020 October 25, 2020 Cubital tunnel syndrome: reviewing our conservative options October 25, 2020 Leaning on your elbows too much can mean bad news, such as the onset of cubital tunnel syndrome. This week, we look at the conservative options available that address this condition. Read more → October 25, 2020 October 19, 2020 Plantar fasciitis: the effects of manual therapy October 19, 2020 Plantar fasciitis will affect 10% of the U.S. population. Research may support the use of manual physical therapy techniques when treating this common problem. Read more → October 19, 2020 October 4, 2020 Forward head posture: addressing the neck versus mid-back October 4, 2020 Being part of a sitting culture makes forward head posture with associated neck pain is almost inevitable, given the amount of hours we spend in front of a computer, on transportation, or while watching TV. We look at two different approaches towards improving forward head posture and neck pain . Read more → October 4, 2020 September 27, 2020 Chronic low back pain: exercise, walking, or both? September 27, 2020 The management of chronic low back pain has always been a popular issue. This article looks at a study comparing different forms of exercise and its impact on low back pain. Read more → September 27, 2020 September 21, 2020 Shoulder impingement: lifting things the right way September 21, 2020 We emphasize the importance of scapular stabilization with particular attention to the serratus anterior to treat and/or prevent shoulder impingement syndrome. Read more → September 21, 2020 September 14, 2020 Runner's knee: the impact of step rate September 14, 2020 Patellofemoral pain is one of many common problems that runners must deal with. A study, however, finds a possible correlation between step rate and the faulty mechanics associated with runner's knee. Read more → September 14, 2020 September 7, 2020 Chronic ankle instability: overlooking a key player September 7, 2020 While there are many factors that contribute to recurrent ankle sprains, we look into a a systematic review that analyzes the reactive time of the peroneal muscle, a key player in preventing inversion sprains. Read more → September 7, 2020 September 2, 2020 Tech neck: hands-on treatment, supervised exercise, or exercise on your own? September 2, 2020 Learn which treatment methods work best when dealing with neck pain. Our chosen study highlights the power of combined supervised therapeutic exercise and hands-on manual therapy. Read more → September 2, 2020 August 26, 2020 Tennis elbow: get a corticosteroid injection, wait it out, or physical therapy? August 26, 2020 Got tennis elbow? Research shows that physical therapy may be the best-fit short- and long-term treatment option for this annoying condition. Read more → August 26, 2020 July 5, 2016 Genetically-Modified Organisms: The good, the bad, and the future July 5, 2016 Read more → July 5, 2016 June 21, 2016 Lost Posture: Why Some Indigenous Cultures May Not Have Back Pain June 21, 2016 Read more → June 21, 2016 June 14, 2016 Fit Philosophy: You Were Made to Move June 14, 2016 Read more → June 14, 2016 The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy. Established in 2016. The LAB Doctors of Physical Therapy - Academia - Cervicogenic Headache Physical Therapy | The LAB Doctors 0 Skip to Content Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home About Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Locations Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Open Menu Close Menu Home Folder: About Back Company Staff Services Insurance Career FAQ Folder: Locations Back Downtown LA Beverly Hills Online Academia Book Now Headaches from neck pain: should physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches look beyond the cervical spine? May 7 Written By Michael Choe Headaches from neck pain are one of the most frustrating presentations in the clinic. Cervicogenic headache physical therapy has traditionally focused on the cervical spine — and for good reason. Manual therapy to the cervical joints works, and exercises targeting the deep neck flexors help too. The research supports both. But what if the neck isn't the whole story? A 2005 case report published by McDonnell, Sahrmann, and Van Dillen explored whether impairments in the scapulothoracic and lumbar regions — not just the cervical spine — could be contributing factors in cervicogenic headache. More specifically, they asked whether treating those regions could meaningfully reduce a patient's headache frequency and intensity. The study This was a case report, meaning it describes the examination and treatment of a single patient. Case reports sit at the lowest level of the evidence hierarchy — they cannot establish cause and effect, and their findings cannot be generalized. With that context in mind, this paper is best read as a clinical reasoning framework rather than proof of efficacy. The patient was a 46-year-old male with a 7-year history of cervicogenic headache. His average pain was 5 out of 10, with peaks of 10 out of 10, and he reported constant symptoms. His Neck Disability Index score was 31 out of 50, placing him in the severe disability category. His symptoms were aggravated by using his arms — whether working with horses or sitting at a computer — and he frequently woke up at night from headache pain. One important detail: one week before starting physical therapy, he received trigger point injections to the posterior cervical and upper trapezius region. These provided 24 to 48 hours of complete pain relief, and his pain had dropped to 3 out of 10 by the time he arrived for his first PT visit. The examination The treating therapist — working within Sahrmann's Movement Impairment Syndrome framework — assessed the cervical, scapulothoracic, and lumbar regions together rather than in isolation. Key findings included forward head posture with excessive upper cervical extension, marked scapular abduction and depression bilaterally, thoracic kyphosis, and significant weakness of the middle and lower trapezius, rhomboids, and lower abdominals. The deep neck flexors were so weak that formal strength testing wasn't even possible at baseline. One of the more clinically interesting findings came from a simple test: the examiner manually elevated and adducted the patient's scapulae while he performed cervical rotation. His range of motion increased by 10 degrees in both directions and his headache pain decreased. This suggested that scapular positioning was directly influencing his cervical symptoms — and became the basis for treatment. The intervention The patient was seen 7 times over 3.5 months. No manual therapy was used at any point. Treatment focused entirely on active exercise and functional modification. The exercise program targeted abdominal strength and control, deep neck flexor activation, scapular retraction and elevation, and full shoulder range of motion without compensatory neck or lumbar movement. Functional instruction emphasized supporting the weight of the arms throughout the day — resting forearms on a desk, placing hands in pockets while standing — to reduce the constant downward pull on the cervical spine. The results The results across those 7 visits were notable. By the fourth visit — just 25 days in — the patient was going several days at a time without any headache. By the seventh visit, headaches had dropped to once per week at an intensity of 1 out of 10. His NDI score fell from 31 to 11, shifting from severe to mild disability. Cervical rotation improved from 39 degrees (painful) to 50 degrees (pain-free), and cervical extension went from 25 degrees (painful) to 40 degrees (pain-free). Scapular position improved from 17.8 cm lateral to 11.4 cm lateral from midline. At a 5-month follow-up phone call, he was sleeping through the night without medication, performing all activities of daily living, and managing flare-ups independently with his exercises. Limitations of the study: This is a single case report. There is no control group, no blinding, and no way to determine whether improvement was due to the intervention, natural history, regression to the mean, or the trigger point injections administered the week prior. The trigger point injection in particular is a notable confound — the patient was already improving before PT began. No independent outcome assessor. The treating therapist was also involved in measuring and reporting outcomes, which introduces the potential for bias. The primary outcomes — headache frequency and intensity — relied on patient self-report without a structured diary or validated headache frequency tool. The passive correction of scapular position test used in the examination has not been formally validated as a diagnostic tool. With only one patient, there is no way to know which components of the intervention — the scapular exercises, the lumbar work, the abdominal training, the functional modifications — were actually driving the improvement, or whether any of them were. Clinical implications for cervicogenic headache physical therapy At first glance, the results are compelling. A patient with 7 years of constant, debilitating headaches from neck pain improved dramatically with just 7 visits — and without a single manual therapy technique. But the more important takeaway may be the clinical reasoning behind the approach. The idea that scapular depression and abduction can transfer the weight of the upper extremities through the cervicoscapular muscles onto the posterior cervical spine is biomechanically plausible. The idea that lumbar extension drives compensatory cervical extension throughout the day is similarly logical. These are not novel concepts — regional interdependence has been discussed extensively in the PT literature — but applying them systematically to cervicogenic headache is less common in practice. The passive correction of scapular position test is particularly worth noting. It takes seconds to perform and gives the clinician immediate feedback about whether scapular mechanics are contributing to cervical symptoms. If range of motion improves and pain decreases with manual scapular support, that's a meaningful clinical signal. What this study cannot tell us is whether adding scapulothoracic and lumbar treatment to a standard cervical approach actually improves outcomes. That question has not been answered in a controlled trial. And given that manual therapy to the cervical spine has a solid short-term evidence base for CH, it is also worth asking: would this patient have done just as well — or better — with the addition of manual therapy? Final thoughts This is not a study you should use to change your protocol. It is something that should prompt you to look further than the cervical spine when you assess a patient with headaches from neck pain. The cliche “shoulders down and back” is not always the answer. In this case, “shoulders down”, or scapular depression, may actually exacerbate cervicogenic symptoms. Are the scapulae sitting low and wide? Is the patient extending through the neck every time they raise th