Physical Therapy Board Hears Reinstatement Petition; Record Closed, Decision Deferred

The Physical Therapy Board of California held a formal reinstatement hearing on March 18, 2025, in Stockton to consider a petition by Michael Caine (petitioner) seeking reinstatement of his physical therapy license. An administrative law judge, the deputy attorney general and board members heard testimony, received documentary exhibits and then closed the record. The board moved to deliberate in closed session; the judge said a written decision will be mailed to the petitioner in roughly 30 days.

The hearing centered on whether Caine has shown sufficient rehabilitation since disciplinary proceedings that began in 2017. Deputy Attorney General Nina Benjamin summarized the allegation history on behalf of the state: an accusation filed Jan. 12, 2017, alleged five causes of discipline including knowingly creating false medical documents (forging patient signatures and submitting claims for services not performed), gross negligence, unprofessional conduct, fraudulent and dishonest conduct, and charging fees for services not provided. Benjamin said a stipulated settlement entered in late 2017 revoked Caine’s license…