Matthew Curtis, PT ’16, DPT ’18

2025 Graduate Of the Last Decade (G.O.L.D.) Award

Matthew Curtis, PT, DPT CMPT, CMTPT-DN is a highly skilled physical therapist known for his expertise in patient care, clinic management, and leadership. He earned his undergraduate degree in Exercise Science in 2016 and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2018 from Carroll University, where he also competed as a four-year track and field athlete, specializing in short sprints, hurdling and the half mile.

Upon graduating, Curtis launched his career at Athletico's Racine Aquatics clinic, which is widely regarded as one of the most challenging locations in the region. As the only clinic in the area with a pool, it attracts patients dealing with complex and chronic pain, often having a reluctance and an apprehension about attending physical therapy. Within just three months, he was promoted to facility manager.

Under his leadership, the clinic, which was initially one of the bottom five performing regional locations, was transformed into one of the top three performers in the region. Curtis’ strategic improvements in clinic productivity, combined with his strong relationships with doctors and patients, allowed the clinic to expand from one to four physical therapists over four years. His dedication to patient satisfaction led to the clinic’s Google rating rising from 4.2 to 4.9 and earned him the Reputation.com 800 Award for excellence in patient care.

Curtis is known for his compassionate, engaging, inclusive and solutions-oriented approach to physical therapy to provide patients with the best care. He has built a reputation for using humor to create a positive environment, helping patients navigate their recovery with optimism and those with chronic pain to overlook their discomfort. He is also committed to mentoring others in the field, supervising Physical Therapy Assistants, new graduates and veteran therapists. Curtis has volunteered as a clinical instructor for physical therapy students, including Carroll University students, helping them prepare for their careers.

In addition to his role as a clinic manager and therapist, Curtis has been involved in his community. He initiated a yearly food drive at his clinic. In 2022, he moved to manage Athletico’s South Milwaukee clinic and was tasked with improving its performance. Curtis produced higher patient volume with half the staff and improved metrics across the board.

Currently, Curtis works as a physical therapist at Advocate Aurora Sports Health in West Allis. He has continued to advance his expertise by earning certifications in Dry Needling (CMTPT-DN), Manual Therapy through Impact (CMPT), and Aquatic Therapy. He has received training in blood flow restriction. In his spare time, he has studied conversational and physical therapy terminology in Spanish to serve all his patients better and provide the highest level of care.

Curtis remains an engaged Carroll University alumnus, attending regional and on-campus events, volunteering at activities like Homecoming, and contributing financially to support future generations of students. Through these efforts, he gives back to the community that shaped his career and continues to inspire others in the physical therapy field.

SEE ALL GOLD AWARD HONOREES