Jeremy Crow of Spear Physical Therapy Receives APTA New York Award for Excellence in 2026
In a significant recognition of excellence within the field, Jeremy Crow, whose role as Director of Residency and Fellowship Programs at Spear Physical & Occupational Therapy shines brightly, has been awarded the prestigious title of the 2026 Physical Therapist of the Year by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) New York Chapter. Known for its leadership in rehabilitation and performance health, Spear operates over 80 locations across the tri-state area, showcasing its commitment to patient care and clinical excellence.
The award, which celebrates a physical therapist's outstanding leadership and professional achievements, highlights Crow's contributions towards advancing clinical education and mentorship in physical therapy. Since joining Spear in 2015, Crow has played an instrumental role in the expansion of the organization’s acclaimed residency and fellowship programs. His work focuses not just on enhancing career pathways for physical therapists but also on instilling a culture that emphasizes evidence-based practice and exceptional patient care.
"This award is really a reflection of the people I'm fortunate to work with every day — our teams and the patients who trust us with their care," said Crow, expressing his gratitude. He attributes his success to the collaborative efforts within Spear to ensure every patient's needs are met with compassion and professionalism.
A Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Crow's expertise is extensive, spanning sports medicine, orthopedic rehabilitation, and manual therapy, making him a sought-after figure in the rehabilitation community. His impressive background includes an internship with the NFL, providing medical support at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, and serving as an Associate Professor at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. His contributions also extend nationally, where he actively participates in residency accreditation and efforts to uplift clinical education standards.
"Jeremy’s passion for clinical excellence has played a vital role in delivering outstanding patient care and advocating for our profession,” added Lisa Yirce, Vice President of Operational Excellence at Spear. "This recognition from APTA New York honors the lasting impact he is making, both on the clinicians he mentors and the patients whose lives are enhanced through his dedication. Having worked alongside him for 16 years, I have seen him grow and evolve, making this honor well-deserved."
To delve deeper into Crow's journey and the significance of this award, a full video feature is available through Spear’s channels.
About Spear Physical & Occupational Therapy
Established in 1999, Spear Physical & Occupational Therapy has emerged as a leader in rehabilitation, providing comprehensive services that include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and hand therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to recover from injuries and maintain optimal health. The esteemed organization maintains a track record of recognition, having been named twice as Practice of the Year and honored multiple times on the Inc. 5000 list as one of America's fastest-growing private companies. Spear’s commitment to advancing rehabilitation care is also reflected through its active partnerships with healthcare systems and community organizations, striving to impact the lives of many positively. Follow Spear on social media platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube for more updates.