A Promise Kept: The Story Behind Sunset Performance Physical Therapy
I should start with why I wanted to become a Physical Therapist in the first place… I was 17 years old, looking at different SDSU majors, when I came across three options: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, and Fitness Specialist. As soon as I saw Physical Therapist, I knew that was what I wanted to do, and I never wavered throughout my journey. This decision was built on years of learning to respect the body through whole-minded martial arts. By then, I was a black belt in Kenpo Karate and had spent years mastering restorative techniques for full-body awareness, self-defense, and strength. Having played competitive soccer my whole life without sustaining any critical injuries, I wanted to help others prevent injuries and optimize their performance through a hands-on approach.
Before starting PT school, I interned at different physical therapy clinics, and I remember being surprised how little individualized care was prioritized. Clinic directors would create generic programs and apply them to patients with completely different injuries. As an aide assisting multiple patients per hour, I saw the lack of comprehensive care and promised myself I would never become that kind of PT – one who stops learning and relies on generic treatments.
For my final clinical rotation in PT school, I had to choose between Johnson and Johnson Physical Therapy in Steamboat Springs, CO, and a clinic in Hawaii. Despite Hawaii's obvious appeal, I chose Colorado because their website showcased extensive continuing education and residency opportunities. This decision changed my life forever. The founders of the Institute of Physical Art were there, treating clients and mentoring students, residents, and fellows – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I witnessed some of the most advanced physical therapy techniques I'd ever seen, with clients improving after just one session. Their emphasis on empathy, intentional learning, and exceptional patient care resonated deeply with me. Finally, I'd found what I'd been searching for! That 3-month clinical rotation dramatically advanced my skills as a clinician, and I continue taking their courses to develop my functional manual therapy expertise and train for further certifications.
The start of Sunset Performance came after working for over a year at my previous company. While I loved what I did, I sensed there was something more for me. After returning from my three-week PTO for my wedding and honeymoon, despite my excitement to treat patients again, I felt unfulfilled. Browsing LinkedIn, I discovered a a job posting: "Room for Rent - Looking for a Physical Therapist." The space was in a wellness studio alongside chiropractors, an acupuncturist, and massage therapists – a perfect place for starting my own business. I applied, got the spot and Sunset Performance PT was born!
Sunset Performance emerged from a vision to elevate physical therapy care in our community, and bridge the gap in whole-body wellness. A clinic where you can actually speak comfortably with your doctor for a full-hour, and address all of your systems together. To treat root causes, and not just the symptoms.
Sunset Performance Physical Therapy fulfills that promise I made to myself years ago: to provide genuine, one-on-one care with a functional approach. It's been a privilege to guide so many clients toward their wellness goals. I look forward to continuing to spread sunset vibes and help clients reach new horizons!
