Dr. Seth Peterson

Dr. Seth Peterson founded The Motive Physical Therapy with the goal of offering a better physical therapy experience. After working in Oro Valley for several years, Dr. Peterson fell in love with the community and decided to open a locally-owned practice that could offer a genuine choice.

Dr. Peterson is committed to excellence in clinical care. Less than 1 of 200 physical therapists have completed residency and fellowship training, which he did under national experts in orthopedic physical therapy and spine management.

He also maintains a faculty position at A.T. Still University in addition to mentoring residents and fellows-in-training at his clinic. He has been a guest lecturer at Creighton, Georgetown, Dayton, and other locations across the US. Seth is co-owner of The Movement Brainery, a continuing education company, and has hosted several podcasts.

Outside of his teaching, Dr. Peterson is a clinician-researcher who serves as an Associate Editor for both The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy Cases and Orthopedic Physical Therapy Practice. He has over 30 peer-reviewed publications. His writing has appeared in JAMA, Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal (PTJ), and many others.

He has been awarded The Emerging Leader Award for both the American Physical Therapy Association and American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists, and the Innovative Practice Award by The Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy.

Originally from Minnesota, Dr. Peterson has called Arizona home since 2010. His wife Katie is a Tucson native and naturopath. Together, they have two young sons, Lincoln and Wyatt, who enjoy exploring the outdoors.