TL;DR: If you're looking to get rid of physical pain in your daily life and exchange pleasantries in the process, come here. If you're serious about returning to a high level of performance, look elsewhere.
This is a message to set expectations for others in the ACL recovery club or who may identify as having more active or athletic lifestyles, a review I wish I would have read. I don't like to leave less than stellar reviews and choose to give constructive feedback directly to business owners. This isn't a story about bad service -you will read other stellar reviews representing other client profiles- but rather a mismatch in needs. Ann was the only PT in my insurance network (Cigna), so if you have other options, I encourage you to shop around.
First off, I'm very grateful for Ann's support during the healing phase of my recovery. During the first month post ACL-reconstruction surgery, she helped me relax (all sessions end in a 15-30min electrotherapy session where they play 1 of 2 meditation/relaxation CDs), corrected my walking gait, and improved my balance. If this is the job of a physical therapist, great, done, mission achieved. Three stars=A-OK.
However, now as I move into the plyometrics/running and then return-to-sport phases of my recovery, I'm looking for a physical therapist with a more structured approach that I trust will help me return to a high level of performance without re-injuring myself. Ann's equipment consists of 2 pilates machines, a stationary bike, a bosu ball, exercise balls, and foam rollers. A skilled physical therapist (Ann is clearly smart and well-experienced) doesn't need fancy machines, but now that I'm advancing in recovery, I'm willing to invest in more hands-on, sports-oriented therapists. I had to research recovery schedules/experiences online because Ann never presented or bought me into a progression plan -even just a general direction- which I asked for a couple times but it's not her style, and was almost made to feel bad for asking; I had to remind her how many weeks I was post-op. Her homework was typically "go on a walking tour of LA, go hike Griffith Park, go dancing" rather than i.e. 5-20 mins on the stationary bike/elliptical. Otherwise, great suggestions for a well-rounded, listen to your body approach to life.
Logistics tips: Ann is the only therapist, which I appreciate seeing the same person, but if there are 3-4 of you scheduled at the same time, you will be left unsupervised or supervised by admin or a student intern. Valet parking downstairs is $9 which is managed by text/app; I didn't try the downtown LA street parking option. Since this office is located in a live-work loft, security will need to activate the elevator for you to the second floor, suite 201.
Best of luck to Ann and Downtown PT. And best of luck to you on your recovery. read more