Meet Dr. Erica Rodriguez, Physical Therapist for Professional Athletes

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Erica Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Erica, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think taking a risk is everything. I would have never started my business if I did not leave my comfort zone. I think everyone who can let go of their stability to bet on themselves knows deep down they can succeed. However, most will not follow through with it due to the unknown outcome. It can be uncomfortable when you’re used to consistency but it can be the only thing holding you back from your true passion.

The ability to leave behind the fear and take the risk has opened many doors for me. I have pursued opportunities that have worked out well but have also been told no several times. The willingness to just go for it has been very important in my success. I would not have ever dreamed I would be working with the some of the most elite athletes in the country. I could still be sitting at a job and thinking that was all life had in store for me. As I said in the beginning, taking the risk has been everything.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I own a mobile practice called 4th Quarter Recovery which includes sports physical therapy and recovery for elite athletes. I offer a variety of services including injury management, post operative care, concussion management, active recovery, and injury prevention. I was a collegiate basketball player where I earned my bachelor of science degree and then pursued my doctorate in physical therapy. The ability to manage injuries and return to sport quicker while addressing the underlying issue is something I do well. Also, helping my athletes complete a healthy season.

I feel like I’ve reached this point in my career by continuously learning and perfecting my skills. It has been a relentless pursuit to makes strides while running my own business but it continues to pay off. Also, it has helped that I’m not afraid to hear no. I just keep moving and stay ready for my next opportunity. Owning your own business is never easy. You work the hardest but that’s the price you pay to be an entrepreneur.

I’m most proud of the relationships I have built with my athletes and their families. I enjoy being a part of their journey. I’m definitely excited about the unknown opportunities and people I’m going to meet along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Fort Worth so I would take them to Press Cafe for some brunch along the Trinity River. I would hit up the Reata rooftop or Joe T. Garcia’s for dinner. They both have a great atmosphere. I enjoy the drinks at Chimy’s like the margs and DP shoot outs. Martin House is one of my favorite local breweries to visit. I would take them to either a Mavs, Dallas Cowboys, or Wings game for some entertainment. Another activity I enjoy is the Cowtown cycle parties that take you through downtown.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m very thankful for my parents and inner circle for supporting me along the way. The love and support has been undefeated.

The majority of my clients are word-of-mouth referrals. I have to thank all my athletes parents who have continuously passed my information around. I have several athletes who tell their teammates about me or share my posts on social media which goes a long way. The fact that they put their confidence in me to help them has made other athletes reach out. David Robinson (D. Rob) gave me my first opportunity when I started my business and I will always be grateful to him. I know there are several others who have continuously brought up my name and I’ll always be thankful.

Website: www.4thQuarterRecovery.com

Instagram: @4thQuarterRecovery

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/4th-quarter-recovery/

Twitter: @4QRecovery

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/4thQuarterRecovery/

Other: Tik Tok: @4thQuarterRecovery

Image Credits
@ogunotres (photo with red basketball 4th photo only)