Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Morales.
Hi Chris, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My first word was “ball,” and that pretty much set the tone for the rest of my life. I grew up surrounded by sports — tee ball, soccer, basketball, football — you name it, I played it. Competing and being part of a team became part of who I was.
When I got to college, I initially majored in forensics (shoutout to Dexter), but it didn’t take long to realize it wasn’t for me. I wanted something that involved movement, human connection, and purpose — that’s when physical therapy came into the picture. I switched to kinesiology and made it my mission to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
I was fortunate to get accepted into PT school on my first try at West Coast University, where I met Dr. Dustin Willis, a professor and mentor who completely changed my perspective on the profession. He taught me that being a great PT isn’t just about understanding anatomy or biomechanics — it’s about understanding people. He introduced me to the importance of emotional intelligence and the power of truly connecting with someone through their rehab journey.
After three tough years of grad school — full of self-discovery and growth — I started my career at Monarch Athletic Club, a private practice where I could work one-on-one with clients and truly focus on their progress. It was the perfect environment to sharpen my craft and learn from some amazing clinicians.
Eventually, I wanted to dive deeper into the sports world, so I left to start my own business. Like many first ventures, it didn’t go exactly as planned — but it was one of the best learning experiences of my life. I got to work with NFL and Division I athletes and learned firsthand what it really takes to build something from the ground up.
From there, I joined Henry Mayo as a sports physical therapist. Working in an insurance-based model came with challenges — limited time with patients, mountains of documentation, and a wide variety of cases. But I refused to let that limit the quality of care I delivered. I doubled down on continuing education, reviewing case studies, and showing up fully for my patients.
Seven months in, I realized something was missing. I loved helping people, but I wasn’t fulfilled. I knew I was meant to make a deeper impact — so I took a leap of faith and launched Momentous Physical Therapy & Sports Performance.
This time, I came in with more experience, confidence, and purpose. I saw firsthand how much of a difference I could make — when I left Henry Mayo, patients came to say goodbye in tears, telling me how much clarity, confidence, and hope I had helped them find. That moment solidified everything for me.
For me, physical therapy goes far beyond pain relief. It’s about helping people rebuild trust in their body, their mind, and themselves. It’s about helping athletes move from surviving to thriving. I don’t just rehab injuries — I help people become better, stronger, and more confident than before.
That’s what Momentous PT stands for — helping athletes and active individuals get out of pain, rebuild confidence, and return to competing at their highest level, both physically and mentally.
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?
Not at all — but honestly, that’s the beauty of life. The ups, the downs, and everything in between are what shape you and make the journey meaningful.
For me, one of the biggest challenges early on was finding myself during school. Balancing classes, work, studying, family, and maintaining a social life was tough. It took time to figure out how to truly show up as my best self — not just for my patients, but for my family and for me.
Another major struggle was dealing with imposter syndrome. It’s something I think most people experience when they care deeply about what they do. I questioned myself at times — whether I was good enough, knowledgeable enough, or ready enough. But over time, I realized imposter syndrome isn’t a weakness; it’s a sign that you care and want to grow.
What helped me overcome that was experience, mentorship, and surrounding myself with the right people. Little by little, I built competence — and from that, real confidence followed. It’s something I remind my patients and myself often: never sell yourself short. You are always more capable than you think you are.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
When I started Momentous Physical Therapy & Sports Performance, I began with one question — why?
Why did I want to create my own practice? What did I want it to stand for? What would make it different from every other clinic?
The word “Momentous” means something meaningful and of great importance — and to me, there’s nothing more meaningful than taking on the challenge of bettering yourself. That’s what rehab is all about. The journey isn’t easy. You’re in pain, you can’t do the things that make you feel like you — running, lifting, playing with your kids, or competing in the sport you love. But that struggle can become the turning point that changes everything.
My mission is to empower people throughout that process — to help them realize that they can achieve things they once thought were impossible. I don’t just want to get you back to your sport or your daily life — I want to help you come back better — mentally, physically, and emotionally.
I specialize in working with athletes across all sports and levels, from youth athletes to professionals. I’m known for taking the time to truly get to know my patients — celebrating their wins, supporting them through setbacks, and pushing them to grow into stronger, more confident versions of themselves.
What sets Momentous PT apart is our holistic approach. I don’t treat people like numbers — I treat them like human beings. I don’t believe in quick fixes or cookie-cutter programs. Instead, I create a customized plan that considers the full picture — your injury, yes, but also your nutrition, sleep, recovery, stress, and mindset. Because true healing happens when all of those pieces align.
What I’m most proud of is what Momentous represents — a brand built on meaning, purpose, and transformation. It’s not your typical PT clinic; it’s a life-changing experience that challenges you, supports you, and helps you rebuild confidence in your body and in yourself.
That’s the heart of Momentous PT — helping you move beyond pain and step into your highest potential.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are a few ways to connect and get involved with Momentous Physical Therapy & Sports Performance.
If you’re an athlete or active individual dealing with pain or looking to perform at a higher level, you can learn more and book a session through my website: www.momentouspt.com/home.
If you’re a coach, trainer, gym owner, or healthcare professional who wants to collaborate — whether that’s hosting athlete workshops, injury screens, or performance talks — I’m always open to building partnerships that serve our athletic community.
You can reach me directly by email at [email protected] or connect with me on Instagram at @pt.papi, where I share insights on rehab, training, and mindset.
The best way to support Momentous PT is by spreading the message — helping athletes and active people understand that physical therapy isn’t just about recovery; it’s about rediscovering what your body is truly capable of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.momentouspt.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pt.papi?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
