J Rick Rafael DPT, OCS, CSCS
Owner, President
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist

Dr. Rafael is a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist and a graduate of the Kaiser Permanente Orthopedic Residency Program. He has served as clinical instructor for several physical therapy universities, and previously served as an adjunct professor at the Santa Monica College movement science department. Dr. Rafael has been awarded for his presentation and research on "Treatment of Piriformis Syndrome". As a private practice owner, Dr. Rafael takes pride in his work and has volunteered at the Venice Free Clinic treating underprivileged patients. During his martial arts practice, Dr. Rafael endured debilitating injuries, which required knee and foot surgery with extensive rehabilitation. Having gone through these injures, he knows firsthand the challenges that patients face when attempting to return to their desired sport and lifestyle. Dr. Rafael is dedicated to utilizing his knowledge and experience to facilitate a quick and complete recovery for each and every patient. He enjoys practicing martial arts, yoga, cross training, mountain and road biking, hiking, and spending time with his family and friends.

Treatment Philosophy:
My goal is to find your source of injury, correct movement impairments, restore optimal posture and recreate balance in the body in order to treat the injury and prevent future recurrences. I believe it takes a team with a holistic and individualized approach to treatment, keeping in mind each person's individual goals, background, and body type that will lead to optimal recovery.