Embark on a transformative journey with our three-step system:

1. Ease Pain

Immediately achieve a more manageable pain level through the use of manual therapy and other tools including dry needling, soft tissue mobilization, spinal manipulation, cupping, and more.

2. Address the Root Cause

The hunt for the answer ends here. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy use their expertise to perform a comprehensive assessment to get to the root cause of your pain in order to identify the best and most appropriate treatments for you.

3. Build Resilience

Leave not just restored but better than before, exceeding your previous baseline. Our goal is for you to leave PT better than you were before your injury. Not only to prevent future injuries, but to elevate your performance in your sport or desired activities.

How we help

Let’s be honest—physical therapy isn’t always something people look forward to (except, of course, the physical therapists)! But we get it. We understand the physical challenges you're facing, and our team is here to help you not only relieve pain but also restore and enhance your quality of life.

We believe in treating the root cause of your dysfunction, not just masking the symptoms. Our hands-on, personalized approach is designed to meet your unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes. If you're searching for exceptional physical therapy care in the East Valley, you've come to the right place!

What sets us apart?

  • AZPI was founded by dedicated professionals focused on providing superior and individualized care
  • AZPI offers a spacious gym to foster continuous movement, ensuring a dynamic therapeutic experience
  • We offer one-on-one treatment with your therapist for the majority of your visit, without the use of techs or aides, meaning no more being passed around to several people during the entirety of your appointment
  • Cutting-edge technology, top-tier physical therapists, and a custom mobile app for at-home exercises and seamless communication
  • We accept most major insurances and also offer competitive cash pay rates for increased accessibility
  • We're a family-owned business, proudly woven into the heart of our community

Who do we treat?

At Arizona Performance Institute, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care for individuals of all ages and abilities. Whether you're an athlete striving for peak performance, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to move and feel better, our team is here to support you. From kids to seniors and beginners to advanced athletes, we customize every treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. Everyone deserves quality care, and we’re dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.

What to expect

As a new patient, you will receive an in depth evaluation with a Doctor of Physical Therapy which will include functional movement assessments, strength testing, range of motion testing, and much more! You and your therapist will discuss your concerns and create a plan that will help you improve your pain and allow you to move better. At AZPI, we understand that every person has different goals and we strive to create a plan that will get you back to living your best life.

Clinical Director

Dr. Brady Michelsen

Our Recovery sessions include:

  • Assisted Stretching: Elevate your flexibility and performance with our Assisted Stretching sessions. Unlike solo stretching or traditional massages, our expert-guided approach offers precision, customization, and enhanced range of motion. Target specific areas, build a mind-body connection, and accelerate recovery with our premium assisted stretching – a superior choice for athletes and active individuals.
  • Cupping: Uncover the secrets of this powerhouse practice, and don’t worry – it’s not as intimidating as it looks! Popular among active adults and athletes for a good reason, cupping supercharges your recovery by boosting blood and lymphatic circulation, promoting faster recovery, enhancing tissue mobility, and effectively reducing acute pain.
  • Dry Needling: Experience the precision of dry needling, a modern alternative to acupuncture. Unlike acupuncture, it targets muscular trigger points, tendons, ligaments, and nerves with thin filiform needles, promoting faster tissue healing, reducing pain, and improving mobility. Prioritize your neuromuscular well-being with this distinct approach.
  • Scraping: Experience the intricate benefits of this technique, skillfully promoting myofascial release. Through controlled pressure, scraping stimulates the release of fascial restrictions, leading to improved muscle flexibility, tension relief, and an accelerated overall recovery.

For personalized one-on-one services, including assisted stretching, cupping, dry needling, and recovery sessions, request an appointment.

Sport specific Physical Therapy

Pre/post operative rehabilitation (joint replacement surgery, ACL reconstruction, Rotator Cuff repair, etc.)

Acute injuries

Chronic pain

Sports Recovery

Pregnancy/postpartum rehabilitation

Pelvic floor dysfunction

Mobility/Range of Motion deficits

Balance training

Gait training

Spine Rehabilitation

Posture

Deconditioning

And more!

Meet our team of Physical Therapists

Dr. Brady Michelsen

Clinical Director

Dr. Bri Piepenbrok

Physical Therapist

Dr. Julie Cortina

Physical Therapist

Joey Graham

Physical Therapist Assistant

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take my insurance?

Where are you located?

When are you open?

How do I schedule an appointment?

Do I need insurance?

Do I need a doctor’s referral or prescription?

What should I do before my first appointment?

What should I wear or bring to my appointment?

What our patients have to say:

Janis Madsen
August 15, 2024
I went to Arizona Performance Institute. I saw at various times three therapists - Bri, Brady and Julie. All three are incredible, knowledgeable and thorough. It’s been a little over two months since surgery and I am walking up and down stairs, walking 1 to 2 miles a day and my knee is getting more and more flexible.You are never handed off to an assistant; the therapist stays with you the entire time. They patiently listen to all concerns and answer every question.I can’t say enough good things about this company. Everyone seems interested only in getting you well. I can’t imagine going anywhere else for excellent physical therapy.
Jessica Radobenko
December 15, 2024
Julie and Brady were amazing therapists to work with. The facility is beautiful. Thank you for making the road to my meniscus surgery short and sweet.
Michelle Zytniowski
October 15, 2024
Great service! Kayla is very knowledgeable, professional and fun! I will continue to see her and other therapists here in the future.
Jennifer Mota
November 15, 2023
8 months ago I had debilitating hip pain and had to walk with the assistance of a cane. It hurt to walk, sleep, sit, bend over, everything. I received a diagnosis of hip dysplasia with a torn labrum, impingement, and osteoarthritis (at 35 years old.) I was searching for a Physical Therapist that understood my condition well because I was on a mission to rehabilitating my hip the best I could before receiving a hip replacement. Then I found AZPI off of the Go Gilbert Facebook group based off of a recommendation. I have been to several Physical Therapy facilities over the past few years, and AZPI is honestly top-notch.Pre-surgery, I saw Julie on a weekly basis where she would work 1-1 with me for an entire hour doing manual therapy, and guided me through exercises to strengthen my hip, legs, and back. Dry needling in particular helped a lot with my acute pain. I like how she mixes up your exercises so every visit isn’t exactly the same, which is something I experienced with other Physical Therapists.Post-surgery, I am currently 4 weeks post op and am still attending AZPI, but now to rehabilitate my hip with my new artificial joint and gain strength so I can FINALLY get back to a new normal and active lifestyle.Julie and the team of other Physical Therapists are very knowledgeable and I believe they truly care about the success of their patients to get well and beyond.Thank you AZPI for being a vital part in my hip recovery journey.
Jackie Rynkiewicz
July 15, 2023
I've been going here for 4 weeks now for my physical therapy and am starting to see results with my shoulder and rotator cuff. The therapists are very knowledgeable and I appreciate the time they are taking with my therapy. The facility its self is very nice and well cared for. I'm aware that my road to full recovery could take awhile and I'm grateful to have AZPI helping me get there!
Aaron Acuna
January 25, 2025
AZPI has been great. I was referred to AZPI by my Orthopedic Dr for post rotator cuff surgery PT. I had my initial appointment with Dr. Bri my second visit with Dr. Brady. They were both caring, friendly and knowledgeable! The facility is very clean and well organized. I feel like they have my best interest in mind. Everyone I've interacted with has been polite and professional.
Alyssa Miramon
January 22, 2025
AZPI has the best small group training classes. Coach Will is awesome! I’ve also had physical therapy and all the PT‘s are top-notch!!
See what our patients have to say...

100+ positive reviews on Google Maps

Robert Sprague
February 9, 2025
All API staff members are professional, kind, and exceed expectations. I’m recovering from my second surgery and wouldn’t go anywhere else!
Melissa Leon
February 7, 2025
Dry needle is my new favorite thing, and Julie 😉
Jennifer Fogle
February 6, 2025
Everyone on staff is beyond helpful. The PTs are extremely knowledgeable and instill a sense of confidence about your healing journey. They are willing to work as hard as you are at getting the results you need and up to date with the current research on interventions. There isn’t a bad PT on staff and they are great partners for whatever results you need.
Maggie Ray
February 3, 2025
Hands down best PT place I’ve ever been, they helped me get back to playing sports after my surgery in far less time than I thought it would be. I felt like they truly cared and were invested in each and every patients recovery. I would recommend this place/the therapists to anyone!!
Aaron Acuna
January 25, 2025
AZPI has been great. I was referred to AZPI by my Orthopedic Dr for post rotator cuff surgery PT. I had my initial appointment with Dr. Bri my second visit with Dr. Brady. They were both caring, friendly and knowledgeable! The facility is very clean and well organized. I feel like they have my best interest in mind. Everyone I've interacted with has been polite and professional.
Alyssa Miramon
January 22, 2025
AZPI has the best small group training classes. Coach Will is awesome! I’ve also had physical therapy and all the PT‘s are top-notch!!
Kim Tolman
January 22, 2025
5 stars to Arizona performance Institute. I cannot say enough for one there very professional Christine At the front desk, always meets you with smile. I unfortunately, through the years I have broke my shoulder and then had injured my back so I’m not a stranger to Physical Therapy places In the valley.and in no way do any of them even compare to this place. I cannot say enough about Julie my physical therapist. She is so knowledgeable and compassionate and she just has the wonderful gift of motivating you when you’re not at your best. Whatever you have injured with me a broken knee Facilities are outstanding and phenomenal they hold fitness classes also have personal training. When I’m finished with my physical therapy, I would love to train with one of the trainers here. Again, five stars you have to come see their facility.
Deborah Ries (REALTORDEB)
January 10, 2025
Excellent one on one care. Great atmosphere and experienced physical therapist. I went to a different pt for 6 weeks no results. 2 week with Arizona performance and i am so much better. Highly recommend. Everyone there is amazing especially Brie.
Brandon Schmidt
January 6, 2025
I was so happy to get one-on-one attention. API was out of network with my particular insurance, and I HAPPILY paid inexpensive cash fees to get expert care from them anyway! I had a severe injury, and I didn't like how my last PT used several intern staff to treat me instead of the actual PT himself. At API I received fantastic attention.
Jeremy Lofgreen
December 30, 2024
I cannot recommend AZPI enough! They have truly transformed my life and helped me overcome debilitating knee and hip pain that once felt insurmountable.Two years ago, I was recovering from knee surgery and facing severe arthritis that left me doubting if I could continue my military career. It felt like my body was giving up on me, and the prospect of stepping away from the career I love was heartbreaking and mentally overwhelming.Fast forward two years, and thanks to the incredible team at AZPI, I’ve made an incredible recovery—not just from my knee surgery but also a follow-up hip surgery. Despite significant cartilage damage in both knees and one hip, I’m now moving better than I have since 2019. I feel stronger, healthier, and more capable than I ever thought possible during those tough times.Each member of the AZPI team brings unique expertise and dedication, working together to make a life-changing impact on my health and quality of life. Their personalized care and unwavering support have been instrumental in restoring not only my physical capabilities but also my confidence and happiness.Thank you, AZPI, for giving me my life back and allowing me to continue serving in the military. You are truly the best at what you do, and I am forever grateful!
Breena Keesler
December 15, 2024
Always personable, knowledgeable, and make you want to be at Physical Therapy
Jessica Radobenko
December 15, 2024
Julie and Brady were amazing therapists to work with. The facility is beautiful. Thank you for making the road to my meniscus surgery short and sweet.
Valerie Asplund
December 15, 2024
Therapist was insightful and has help me get to the next level of healing
Darryl Sander
December 15, 2024
Had bad sciatica on right leg. Went to chiropractor, only made it worse. Have had two treatments at Arizona Performance and seeing better results. Good place to go.
Nikki Weiland
December 15, 2024
Best PT we have been to! Julie is amazing with my daughter. She got her in quickly also. Front office is super friendly and helpful.
Victoria Nuno
December 15, 2024
Bri and the entire team have been fantastic. We got a recommendation from my cousin about starting physical therapy here after my mom broke her patella and they have just been a dream! Very friendly environment and it's fun to watch the other activity/group fitness programs they have!
Matt Leben
November 15, 2024
Caylin Hublit-Lieu
Caylin Hublit-Lieu
November 15, 2024
Nothing but good things! I’ve been seeing Julie at AZ Performance Institute for about 5 weeks. I’m a second time postpartum mom and pelvic floor issues led me to seek physical therapy. In just over a month Julie has helped me feel a lot more confident in my recovery, ability, and my future. The facility is nice, all the staff is really friendly, great vibes all around.
Samuel Pierson
November 15, 2024
Friendly knowledgeable staff that have taken me from walking with constant pain to feeling normal. Thank you AZ Performance!
Kevin Barton
October 15, 2024
Amazing! I pay them to stab me and electrocute me, it’s great. To be fair it’s tiny needles and a TENS unit but still. Everyone there is great and I always walk out feeling better than when I walked in. I would highly recommend them to my only friend who happens to be my wife and is the one who recommended me to them. In short they are amazing and everyone should go.