Dr. Steve Politis practices Physical Therapy in Santa Barbara, specializing in movement conditions related to pain, sports/fitness performance, and injury prevention. His approach is highly individualized, focusing on his clients’ priorities and their confident participation in living life fully. He enjoys working with a wide cross section of people with varying needs, goals and abilities.
He graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a BS in Biopsychology, and went on to complete his Doctoral in Physical Therapy at Arizona School of Health Sciences. He holds two post graduate Fellowships: Applied Functional Science (Gray Institute / GIFT), and Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (Ola Grimsby Institute).
His professional focus is on the biomechanics of the human body within the context of orthopedics, sports medicine. Utilizing differential diagnosis, a hands-on approach, therapeutic movement, and each client’s self-determined task priorities, “Dr. Steve” systematically integrates testing, treating, therapy, and training to fix causes and enhance performance, as well as, sooth symptoms. He believes that every-body is an athlete within the game of life and was born to achieve.
Steve is also a coach for the Santa Barbara Rugby community including the SB Rugby Academy, Grunions Rugby (senior men’s club), and Stingrays (youth rugby club) serving as Strength and Conditioning coach, injury prevention, consultation, rehabilitation, and forwards coach. He has been an avid rugby player for over 24 years, and is now giving back to the rugby community by sharing his professional knowledge, experience, and passion for the sport.
His professional career in Physical Therapy and Health & Wellness spans over 17 years as a massage therapist, strength and conditioning coach, personal trainer, and physical therapist. He has also been a professional chef and enjoys nutrition, cooking, and eating well.
He and his wife Mollie, spend their free-time soaking up all the outdoor lifestyle adventures they can manage here in fabulous Santa Barbara.
Licensure & Certifications
Licensed Physical Therapist in the state of California
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Doctor of Manual Therapy (DMT)
Fellow of Applied Functional Science (FAFS)
Fellow of American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT)
Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP)
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
Certified MovNat Level 1 Instructor
