Elite Physical Therapy Inc., a physical therapy practice in Rhode Island, is celebrating its 17 year anniversary.

In 2002, founder and doctor of physical therapy (DPT) Michael Nula just finished his program at the University of Rhode Island when he and his wife Lisa decided to open their first physical therapy practice in Warwick.

“I’ll never forget the first day,” Michael said. “I still remember how nervous and excited I was. Funny that our front reception station was on back order and we had to use our breakroom table as the front desk that day. Normally, I would have freaked out, but I was so pumped that ‘game day’ finally arrived. All the planning, preparation, dreaming, and family support came together in that moment. We received our first referral that day who I ended up seeing as our first patient. Before I brought the patient in for her initial evaluation, my eyes watered, and I realized in that moment that the adventure was just beginning and that this thing was going to work.”

From starting the practice with only himself for the first year, Michael now has over 100 employees currently working for Elite. Many have been here since the very beginning such as physical therapist Brian Whitcomb.

“I have been part of the Elite Physical Therapy team for 15 years and have been able to see the evolution of our company, not only in size, but also in the positive impact on the wellness and health of the communities we serve,” said Brian. “My observation on why Elite has been able to provide quality care in returning so many patients to pain free living is based on the culture of our team. I value Elite’s customer service and care when I have received it personally, and I take pride in being a part of an entire team that truly provides that every day.”

The practice has transformed into nine clinics over the past 17 years and will shortly be opening their 10th location in Lincoln this fall.

This past year Elite Physical Therapy was granted four awards. They were named one of the Best Physical Therapy practices from the Providence Journal Readers’ Choice; awarded Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Worksite Wellness Award for their outstanding worksite wellness; and they received two awards from Providence Business News including being named to the Best Places to Work and Healthiest Employers lists.

The Small Business Association (SBA) reports that 30 percent of new businesses fail during their first two years and the number increases from there on. When asked what advice he had for new entrepreneurs, Dr. Nula said, “Be passionate in what you do. Surround yourself with awesome people. Always have a great, positive, grateful attitude. Make helping others a priority – it is way more satisfying and rewarding. And be sure to always make time for friends, family, and regular exercise.” Elite Physical Therapy works with businesses and the community to improve overall health and wellness through a variety of initiatives, programs and events. They provide workshops, ergonomic assessments, postural screenings, injury assessments, fall prevention and balance screenings, running clinics and advice by licensed physical therapy doctors to meet individual, community, athletic, and employer needs.

To learn more, call (401) 737-4581 or for Massachusetts locations call (508) 306-9525 or visit their website, www.elitephysicaltherapy.com. Appointments are available in 24 hours and over 100 insurances are accepted.