Derek Garza

Laguna Niguel, CA
949•328•6776 IG: dr.derekpt

1 Review
$200.0 / Hour

About

PRICING & BUNDLE DISCOUNTS:
📋Initial evaluation (75 minutes): $250
🏃‍♂️Single Follow-Up Appointment (60 minutes): $200
Single Virtual Session (60 minutes): $150

- 4 Session Bundle (2 month care plan @ 5%): $760
- 8 Session Bundle (4 month care plan @ 7.5%): $1480
*Late cancellation fee: $100 (<24hours notice before appointment) 

Derek is an experienced physical therapist with a deep passion for enhancing human performance. Born and raised in Northern California, Derek pursued his love for sports and fitness by earning a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology Exercise Science from Fresno State University, where he excelled as a Division 1 Track and Field athlete in jumps, hurdles, and the decathlon.

After his undergraduate studies, Derek gained valuable experience working in finance for Ayco: A Goldman Sachs Company. He then advanced his education by earning a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the prestigious Mass General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA, and obtained a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Derek specializes in sprinting and speed developement, plyometrics, and weightlifting. He treats most orthopedic conditions, and has great interest in building quality personalized treatment plans for the individual's he works with. His unique combination of athletic background and scientific knowledge allows him to deliver exceptional performance enhancement and rehabilitation services.

Why Choose Derek?

  • Extensive Experience: Over 20 years in jump/plyometric training and athletic development.
  • Advanced Education: Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Mass General Hospital Institute of Health Professions
  • Athletic Background: Division 1 Track and Field athlete (jumps/hurdles/decathlon) 
  • Professional Certification: CSCS from the NSCA
  • Holistic Approach: Integrates advanced athletic experience with scientific expertise for better outcomes

LOCATIONS SERVED
Corona Del Mar, Irvine, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, San Clemente

 

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Availabilities

Monday: Afternoons, Evenings
Tuesday: Early mornings, Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings
Wednesday: Early mornings, Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings
Thursday: Early mornings, Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings
Friday: Early mornings, Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings
Saturday: Early mornings, Mornings

Certifications and Credentials

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (CA and MD licensed) 
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA)
  • Instrument Assisted STM (IASTM) level 1 provider


Education

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy l Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions
  • Bachelors of Science: Kinesiology - Exercise Science l CSU Fresno 


Specialties

  • ACL Rehab
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Sport Related Soft Tissue Injuries (i.e hamstring strain, rotator cuff tear etc.) 
  • Joint Replacement Rehab
  • Return to Sport Rehab
  • Speed Development
  • Balance Training/Fall Prevention
  • Running Analysis
  • Plyometrics
  • Weightlifting: Powerlifting and Olympic Lifting
  • Post-Operative
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
  • Blood Flow Restriction Training
  • Objective Testing to improve patient outcomes and performance


Fun Facts

🏅 Love anything outdoors: hiking/backpacking, camping, snowboarding, beach, kayaking/paddle boarding, trail-running
🏅 Terrified of heights - but loves world record breaking rollercoasters, sky-diving, and has hopes to base jump someday
🏅 Self-proclaimed foodie
🏅 Sour Candy Aficionado
🏅 Lover of all types of music


Reviews

Derek did a comprehensive return-to-sport evaluation for me. I'm about 8 months post op from an ACL reconstruction and still struggling to get the affected leg back to baseline. I was impressed by his professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for patient care. In my long ACL recovery I have worked with many physical therapists, so I think I have a good perspective on the standard of care patients should come to expect from private physical therapy. In addition, I'm a medical provider myself. So with this perspective I can enthusiastically recommend Derek to anyone who's looking for a physical therapist, especially one who specializes in ACL / sports recovery.

Quinn, Jan 27