Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Nicklas.
Hi Scott, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into physical therapy wasn’t a direct one. In college, I explored several different healthcare roles, trying to find the right fit. While I enjoyed learning about each area, I realized I was drawn to roles that allowed for genuine connection and hands-on involvement. When I was introduced to physical therapy, it immediately stood out. The ability to spend an entire hour with a patient, really get to know them, and be an active part of their progress was exactly what I had been looking for. I loved how physical therapy combined movement, problem-solving, and relationship-building, and how rewarding it was to watch people work toward and achieve their physical goals.
That passion led me to pursue my Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at the University of Texas at El Paso, where I graduated in 2021. Since then, I have been working in outpatient physical therapy, treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions. I also spent two years traveling around the country as a physical therapist, which gave me the opportunity to work in different clinics, treat diverse patient populations, and gain a broader perspective on how physical therapy is practiced across the country.
Through these experiences, I became increasingly aware of some of the limitations within the current healthcare system. High patient volumes and limited one-on-one time often make it difficult to provide the level of care patients truly need. I have always had an interest in entrepreneurship, and seeing these gaps in care motivated me to start my own practice.
As someone who is personally very active, and who spends a lot of time around endurance athletes, strength athletes, and active adults in the Austin area, I saw a clear need for a different approach. Many outpatient clinics do a great job helping people recover from injury, but often fall short when it comes to helping them return to higher levels of performance. I wanted to create a practice that focuses on truly individualized, one-on-one care and helps bridge the gap between rehabilitation and performance so people can not only recover, but continue doing what they love at a high level.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Some of my greatest struggles have come during seasons that required endurance, adaptability, and trust in myself before I fully had it. Working in acute care during my clinical rotations in COVID placed me on the front lines during a time of constant uncertainty. Caring for critically ill patients while navigating evolving protocols and emotional isolation was exhausting, but it strengthened my ability to stay grounded under pressure. That experience deepened my resilience and reinforced the importance of showing up with empathy, especially in the hardest moments.
As a travel physical therapist, I faced a different kind of challenge. Frequent weekend flights and time away from family required sacrifices that were not always visible but were deeply felt. Constant transitions into new cities, teams, and environments tested my sense of stability. At the same time, they sharpened my independence and adaptability. I learned how to build trust quickly and remain consistent in my values no matter where I was working, and being away from home clarified what matters most to me.
The most personal challenge was finding the confidence to start my own business. Making that leap meant stepping away from the security of a predictable path and confronting self-doubt directly. It required trusting my skills, my vision, and my willingness to learn. Choosing to bet on myself was uncomfortable, but it was also empowering. Through that process, I learned that confidence is built through action, not waiting for certainty.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Stride Physical Therapy & Performance, I specialize in performance-focused orthopedic rehabilitation, helping patients recover from injuries, improve movement efficiency, and reach higher levels of physical performance. My expertise includes manual therapy, dry needling, performance PT in gyms or at home, concierge in-home therapy, and telehealth. I am known for providing highly individualized care that goes beyond standard clinic protocols. My patients have access to me 24/7 and receive a level of attention and customization that I have not seen offered at any other PT clinic I have worked in or researched.
What sets me apart is my hands-on, patient-centered approach. Every program begins with a full-body assessment to identify the root cause of limitations, followed by targeted therapy and movement retraining tailored to each person’s goals. Whether helping an athlete return to competition, a weekend warrior reduce pain, or someone navigate daily activities without restriction, I focus on sustainable results and long-term performance.
I am most proud of creating a practice where patients feel supported at every step of their recovery. From in-home concierge sessions to continuous virtual guidance, my goal is to make high-level individualized care accessible and consistent so patients can regain confidence, prevent reinjury, and continue progressing well beyond rehabilitation.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Trip to Disney World in middle school for football championship
Contact Info:
- Website: https://strideptperformance.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pt.stride/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@StridePT
