Elgin Physical Therapy: Healing, History and Homegrown Care

Elgin, TX, has a wide range of small businesses across numerous sectors, each adding character, value, and vital services to the community. One fantastic example is Elgin Physical Therapy, where owner Irina Cortinas blends professional expertise with heartfelt care. Her journey from Physical Therapy Assistant to clinic owner is inspiring and signals the possibilities for small business owners in Elgin.

Irina Cortinas: from Assistant to CEO 

Irina Cortinas began her career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Emporia, KS. Along with a B.S. degree in Health Services Administration from Washburn University, she accumulated experience across multiple care settings, from acute care to outpatient orthopedics.

In 2010, Irina moved to Texas and began working at Elgin Physical Therapy. Over time, her dedication caught the attention of then-owner Candy Clark, who approached Irina about taking over the business, which she did in 2021. “I didn’t think I could afford it,” Cortinas recalls, “but Candy helped finance the purchase. She wanted to preserve the business’s legacy.”

Today, Cortinas is the lead PTA at Elgin Physical Therapy and the proud owner, continuing a mission of personalized care and community wellness.

Clinic with a homegrown heart

Elgin Physical Therapy has a special ambience deriving from its location: a cozy, converted residential home that gives patients a sense of comfort and calm. “Our clients say it feels like home,” Cortinas said. “That’s important, especially when physical therapy can be intimidating or painful during recovery.”

Cortina is committed to maintaining that welcoming feel and would love to expand or renovate the current location to allow for growth without losing the charm that patients love. She hopes to work with Clark, who still owns the building, to modernize and expand services at Elgin Physical Therapy. 

Elgin Physical Therapy's mission goes beyond just recovery. Cortinas emphasizes health maintenance, encouraging clients to focus on long-term wellness and mobility. “We want people not just to heal, but stay well and thrive.”

Elgin supports small business

Elgin Physical Therapy is thriving as Elgin continues to grow, thanks to the town’s strong support for long-standing local businesses. Its convenient location allows clients to receive quality care close to home without the hassle of commuting to Austin. “Clients appreciate having options like ours right here in their community,” says Cortinas. “Our biggest challenge now is attracting more Physical Therapists to meet the rising demand. One advantage we offer is the easier reverse commute out of Austin, which can be a real draw for potential staff.”

Support Local, Stay Well

The Elgin Economic Development Corporation celebrates small businesses like Elgin Physical Therapy for making the city a great place to live and work. Visit Elgin EDC's website to learn more about local economic initiatives and how you can support Elgin’s thriving small business community.