Physical Therapy Clinic Helping Surprise Residents Move Better Without Pills or Surgery
If you’re in Surprise and pain is slowing you down, you don’t have to push through it. At Preferred Physical Therapy, we help you feel stronger, move easier, and get back to the life you enjoy—without turning to medication or surgery.
From joint pain and vertigo to sports injuries and limited mobility, our licensed physical therapists are here to help you move forward with a clear, personalized plan that works.
Many of our patients from Surprise make the short trip to our clinic for care that delivers real results. We’ve helped thousands of people recover and stay active, and we’re ready to help you too.
Watch this 2 minute video that explains exactly how Preferred Physical Therapy helps people like you!
How To Get Started
1) Qualifying Phone Call: This helps you know if we can solve what you have AND schedule a FREE discovery visit.
2) Discovery Visit: You will sit down with a provider to understand your problem and Create a Custom Care Plan.
3) Execute Custom Care Plan: This is your road map to moving easy and pain-free.
Start Your Pain-Free Journey Now »Our Services: Effective Physical Therapy for Surprise Patients
We offer a full range of services to support your recovery and long-term progress. Whether you’re starting fresh after an injury or trying to finally get relief from chronic pain, our treatments help you move better—without pills or surgery.
Dry needling helps release tension, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility in targeted areas.
Therapeutic cupping improves circulation and supports recovery for people dealing with chronic tightness and discomfort.
A focused treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in stubborn, painful areas.
One-on-one care that helps reduce dizziness and balance problems

Focused rehab for athletes of all ages recovering from sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

A structured, therapist-guided fitness program for safe strength-building after rehab.

Targeted, assisted stretching sessions that help restore flexibility and ease tension.
A compression system that supports muscle recovery and reduces soreness after workouts or therapy.
Meet The Preferred Physical Therapy Team
We’re a close-knit team of physical therapists, rehab specialists, and support staff who focus on what works best for you. You’ll get guidance, encouragement, and a clear plan at every step—so you always know where you’re headed.
Nick Hunter, PT, DPT
President and Owner of Preferred Physical Therapy
Nick is a Physical Therapist who grew up in Glendale, Arizona. He attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where he received his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. He then went on to attend the University of Utah in Salt Lake City where he received his Doctor of Physical Therapy.
While in school, Nick was able to work in a hearing and balance center, pain management clinic, and several orthopedic clinics. In 2010, Nick moved back to the Phoenix area to begin his physical therapy career. After just 2 years in practice, Nick was promoted to partner physical therapist, managing a team of physical therapists and support staff. With this experience, he decided to continue his care for patients by starting his own clinic. Some of his special areas of interest include orthopedic rehab, vestibular impairments, and trigger point dry needling. He is particularly skilled with the spine, knee, and foot/ ankle areas.
In his spare time, Nick enjoys CrossFit training, cycling, triathlon training, jeeping, and spending time with his wife and four boys in the outdoors (by camping in the summer and snowboarding in the winter).
Born: Provo, UT
Lives now: Peoria, AZ
Favorites
Place: Codon, Catanduanes Philippines
Restaurant: The Keg Steakhouse
Food: Chinese Food
Holiday: Christmas
City: Moab, Utah
TV Show: Stranger Things
Movie: Growing up: Dumb and Dumber, Now: Thor Ragnarok as well as The Power of One
Singer/ Group: Imagine Dragons
Celebrity: Lebron James
Book: Lee Childs Jack Reacher Series and many books by David Baldacci
Hobbies: Crossfit, basketball, 4 wheeling in my Jeep
Sports Team: The Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Cardinals
Dr. Nick Hunter, PT, DPT
Owner of Preferred Physical Therapy
Dr. Shayla Alvarez PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Shayla was born in San Jose, California, but now calls Peoria, Arizona home. She attended Jacksonville State University in Alabama, where she played Division 1 Volleyball both indoor and on the beach from 2016-2020. She then went on to earn her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, graduating in 2024.
Shayla is excited to join the Preferred Physical Therapy team, where private practice allows her the freedom to provide individualized care without being limited by quotas and insurance constraints. She is passionate about helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life through personalized treatment plans.
In her spare time, Shayla enjoys playing volleyball with her husband and friends, line dancing with her sister, and spending quality time with her daughter, Autumn.
Born: San Jose, California
Lives now: Peoria, AZ
Favorites
Place: Freeport, Bahamas
Restaurant: Cooper’s Hawk
Food: Sushi
TV Show: Vampire Diaries
Movie: Forrest Gump
Singer/Group: Cody Johnson
Book: Throne of Glass
Hobby: Indoor and Beach Volleyball
Sports Team: Green Bay Packers
Dr. Shayla Alvarez PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Aolani Peiper
Stretch and Fitness Director
Aolani is originally from the Big Island of Hawai’i and attended Fort Lewis College in Durango Colorado where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science. Aolani is currently attending Bastyr University to pursue an online Masters of Science in Integrative Nutrition.
Aolani has a passion for health and wellness and has always loved helping people. In addition to her work at Preferred Physical Therapy, Aolani is an exercise specialist, stretch therapist, and Lomi Lomi massage therapist. She has strived to make the care she provides both accessible and individualized to create a safe healing journey. She has dabbled in a few facets of healthcare but has always been interested in rehab, movement therapy, and correctional exercise techniques.
“Like I would with my own family, I want to provide the best care possible and empower the patient to make effective decisions in their plan of care.”
Born: Hawai’i
Lives now: Glendale, AZ
Favorites
Place: Any beach in Hawaii
Restaurant: Spinato's Pizza or Hapa Food Co.
Food: Poke and Kalua Pig
Holiday: Halloween
City: Boston
TV Show: The office or Chicago med
Movie: The breakfast club
Singer/ Group: 2pac
Celebrity: Selena Gomez
Book: The Girls weekend
Hobbies: Weightlifting and cooking
Aolani Peiper
Stretch and Fitness Director
Kristy Snyder
Sales Administrator
Kristy was born and raised in California but now calls Peoria her home. She attended school in Fullerton, CA and Irvine, CA where she studied Physical Education.
Kristy is excited to now be a member of the Preferred Physical Therapy team. She loves the company’s core values. It makes her happy to know that she is helping people feel better and influencing them in a positive way.
She spends her spare time with her husband and 2 daughters.
Born: Anaheim, CA
Lives: Peoria, AZ
Favorites
Place: Anywhere in nature with a pretty sunset (and her camera)
Restaurant: Any place that has tacos or sushi
Food: Street tacos
City: Any city where my family is
TV Show: Heartland
Movie: City of Angels
Singer/ Group: 80’s pop or country
Celebrity: I don’t really follow them
Book: Facebook! Lol. Kidding! Anything informative on health, fitness, or relationships.
Hobby: Photography, yoga, & smiling
Sports team: Any team my kids are playing on
Kristy Snyder
Client Success Specialist
Learn how Preferred Physical Therapy can help you move better and feel your best.
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Conditions We Treat
We help people manage pain and mobility problems caused by injury, age, or long-term conditions. Many of our patients come to us after other treatments haven’t worked. We offer solutions that restore movement and improve daily life.
If you don’t see your condition listed, just ask—there’s a good chance we’ve helped others with something similar.
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Vertigo and Dizziness
Herniated or Bulging Disc
Whiplash
-
Neck Pain
Degenerative Disc Disease
-
Headaches and Migraines
Neck Spondylosis (Degeneration)
Arthritis and Stenosis
Poor Posture and Forward Head Syndrome
-
Shoulder Pain
Sprain / Strain
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Fractures
Labrum Tear
Bursitis / Tendonitis
Dislocation, Instability
Post-surgery Rehab
Frozen Shoulder / Adhesive Capsulitis
-
Low Back Pain
Post-surgery Rehab
Sciatica and Radiating Pain
Sacroiliac Joint Pain and Stiffness
Osteoporosis
Spinal Arthritis and Spinal Stenosis
-
Mid Back Pain
Compression Fractures
Sprain / Strain
Herniated or Bulging Disc
Spondylolisthesis
Degenerative Diseases
Elbow Pain, Wrist Pain, Hand Pain
Tendon Repair & Post-surgery Rehab
Sprain / Strain
Fractures
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Nerve Injuries
Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow (Lateral & Medial Epicondylitis)
Hip Pain and Thigh Pain
Difficulty Walking
Sprain / Strain
Piriformis Syndrome
Trochanteric Bursitis
Osteoarthritis of The Hip
Sciatica
Groin Pull
Sports Hernia
Post-surgery Rehab
Total Hip Replacement / Partial Hip Replacement
Achilles Tendonitis
Plantar Fasciitis
Morton’s Neuroma
Bunionectomy Recovery
Peroneal Tendonitis
Sprain / Strain
Fractures
Post-surgery Rehab
Instability
Calf Strain
Hamstring Strain
Shoulder Muscle Tear
Achilles Tendonitis
Groin Strain
Meniscus Injury
Sprain / Strain
Post-surgery Rehab
Difficulty Walking
Total Knee Replacement
Knee Pain
Poor Balance / Risk of Falling
Tendonitis
Medial Cruciate Ligament (MCL) Tears
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tears
Lateral Cruciate Ligament (LCL) Tears
Why Surprise Residents Choose Our Clinic for Physical Therapy
We’ve built strong relationships with patients across Surprise who want lasting results—not temporary fixes. Here’s what makes our clinic worth the short drive:
Book Your Physical Therapy Session Today
You shouldn’t have to live with pain. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation today. We’re nearby and ready to help you get moving again.
Your Physical Therapy Questions Answered
We know that starting physical therapy can bring up a lot of questions. That’s why we’ve answered some of the most common ones we hear from new patients. If you need more help, just reach out—we’re here to make things clear.
- [op_question question="What%20types%20of%20pain%20or%20injuries%20do%20you%20treat%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]We%20treat%20a%20variety%20of%20conditions%20that%20can%20limit%20your%20daily%20activities%2C%20from%20joint%20pain%2C%20muscle%20strains%2C%20and%20back%20pain%20to%20sports%20injuries%2C%20arthritis%2C%20and%20post-surgical%20recovery.%0A%0AFor%20a%20full%20list%20of%20conditions%20we%20treat%2C%20be%20sure%20to%20check%20out%20the%20%E2%80%9C%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fpreferredptaz.com%2Fconditions-treatments%2F%22%3EConditions%20We%20Treat%3C%2Fa%3E%E2%80%9D%20section%2C%20where%20you%E2%80%99ll%20find%20how%20we%20can%20help%20you%20regain%20the%20mobility%20and%20relief%20you%20deserve.[/op_question] [op_question question="I%E2%80%99m%20getting%20older%20and%20feel%20like%20I%E2%80%99m%20losing%20strength%20and%20mobility.%20Is%20physical%20therapy%20a%20good%20option%20for%20me%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]Yes%2C%20physical%20therapy%20is%20an%20excellent%20option%20for%20older%20adults%20who%20want%20to%20maintain%20or%20regain%20their%20strength%2C%20flexibility%2C%20and%20mobility.%20As%20we%20age%2C%20our%20bodies%20naturally%20lose%20some%20muscle%20mass%2C%20balance%2C%20and%20coordination.%20Physical%20therapy%20can%20help%20slow%20this%20process%20down%20and%20improve%20your%20independence%2C%20allowing%20you%20to%20enjoy%20everyday%20activities%20with%20more%20ease.%20It%E2%80%99s%20never%20too%20late%20to%20start![/op_question] [op_question question="How%20soon%20can%20I%20expect%20results%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]Every%20patient%E2%80%99s%20recovery%20timeline%20is%20unique%2C%20but%20many%20people%20start%20feeling%20relief%20after%20just%20a%20few%20sessions.%20We%20work%20with%20you%20to%20set%20realistic%20goals%2C%20monitor%20your%20progress%2C%20and%20adjust%20your%20plan%20as%20needed%20to%20ensure%20you%E2%80%99re%20moving%20toward%20your%20recovery%20as%20efficiently%20as%20possible.[/op_question] [op_question question="Can%20you%20help%20if%20I%E2%80%99ve%20already%20tried%20physical%20therapy%20somewhere%20else%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]Yes%2C%20we%20can!%20It%E2%80%99s%20common%20for%20people%20to%20come%20to%20us%20after%20trying%20other%20physical%20therapy%20treatments%20without%20success.%20Our%20team%20takes%20a%20fresh%20approach%2C%20focusing%20on%20identifying%20the%20root%20cause%20of%20your%20pain%20and%20creating%20a%20treatment%20plan%20that%20works%20for%20your%20specific%20needs.%20We%20won%E2%80%99t%20waste%20your%20time%E2%80%94we%20focus%20on%20what%20will%20actually%20help%20you%20get%20better.[/op_question] [op_question question="How%20often%20will%20I%20need%20to%20return%20to%20physical%20therapy%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]That%20will%20depend%20on%20several%20things.%20It%20will%20depend%20on%20what%20your%20doctor%20recommended%2C%20what%20we%20recommend%20based%20on%20our%20evaluation%2C%20and%20what%20your%20insurance%20plan%20allows.%20Typically%20doctors%20recommend%202-3%20visits%20each%20week%20for%204%20weeks%2C%20or%208-12%20visits.%20At%20the%20end%20of%20this%20prescription%20of%20PT%20we%20will%20do%20a%20re-evaluation.%20This%20is%20where%20we%20re-evaluate%20the%20measures%20we%20took%20in%20our%20initial%20evaluation%20(first%20visit)%20to%20see%20the%20progress%20made.%0A%0AIf%20you%20are%20where%20you%20want%20to%20be%20and%20have%20achieved%20your%20therapy%20goals%20then%20you%20are%20ready%20for%20discharge%20to%20continue%20at%20home%20with%20your%20home%20program%20(we%20strive%20to%20make%20this%20happen).%20If%20you%20are%20making%20progress%20but%20aren%E2%80%99t%20quite%20where%20you%20want%20to%20be%20with%20your%20improvement%20we%20recommend%20you%20continue%20another%20round%20of%20physical%20therapy%20(more%20common%20with%20more%20complex%20issues).%0A%0AIn%20the%20event%20you%20are%20just%20not%20getting%20better%2C%20you%20will%20be%20referred%20back%20to%20your%20doctor%20to%20pursue%20more%20aggressive%20treatment%20options%20(we%20hope%20this%20doesn%E2%80%99t%20happen%2C%20but%20unfortunately%20we%20can%E2%80%99t%20fix%20everyone%20as%20fast%20as%20they%20want%20to%20be%20fixed).[/op_question] [op_question question="Will%20I%20get%20treatment%20the%20first%20day%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]Yes!%20We%E2%80%99ll%20treat%20you%20and%20give%20you%20an%20exercise%20program%20(with%20pictures%20and%20descriptions)%20and%20have%20all%20the%20equipment%20(for%20purchase)%20you'll%20need%20so%20you%20can%20perform%20them%20at%20home.%20This%20will%20complement%20the%20hands%20on%20portion%20of%20our%20treatment%20plan%20very%20nicely.%20The%20exercises%20also%20help%20further%20identify%20what%20may%20be%20causing%20your%20problem.%20So%20it%20may%20be%20a%20good%20idea%20to%20keep%20a%20record%20of%20what%20exercises%20help%20or%20hurt%20your%20problem%20after%20the%20first%20visit.[/op_question] [op_question question="What%E2%80%99s%20the%20difference%20between%20physical%20therapy%20and%20regenerative%20treatments%3F" titletextcolor="#073959" textcolor="#444" bgcolor="#fff"]Physical%20therapy%20focuses%20on%20improving%20your%20movement%2C%20strength%2C%20and%20overall%20recovery.%20Regenerative%20treatments%2C%20on%20the%20other%20hand%2C%20target%20deeper%20tissue%20healing%20in%20your%20joints%2C%20tendons%2C%20and%20muscles.%0A%0AMany%20of%20our%20patients%20find%20that%20combining%20both%20treatments%20yields%20the%20best%20results%2C%20helping%20them%20return%20to%20their%20daily%20activities%20faster%20and%20with%20less%20pain.[/op_question]
Service Area
We provide expert physical therapy care to patients across Surprise and the surrounding areas. No matter your age, activity level, or goals, our mission stays the same: help you move better, feel stronger, and live life on your terms.
Top Sights In Surprise, Arizona
What People Are Saying About Preferred Physical Therapy
How To Find Preferred Physical Therapy
Google Street View Virtual Tour
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