Physical Therapist in Hackensack, NJ

Don't Let Pain Bench You From the Life You Love

We help active adults return to the activities they love and get back to living pain-free without medications, injections or surgery.

Group performance training session with Ethos Physical Therapy in Hackensack, NJ.
Our Services

Every path built around you

Physical therapy, performance training, and wellness — all one-on-one, all with a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Physical Therapy

One-on-one, 60-minute sessions to find the root cause and fix it.

Performance Training

Train smarter with a DPT guiding every session and every rep.

Wellness

Monthly maintenance sessions with a DPT to stay ahead of pain.

Hip Pain Physical Therapy

One-on-one root-cause PT for hip pain keeping you from training.

Knee Pain Physical Therapy

Root-cause PT for knee pain keeping you off the trail and out of the gym.

Neck Pain Physical Therapy

Root-cause care for neck pain and cervical issues that keep coming back.

Shoulder Pain Physical Therapy

Root-cause PT for shoulder pain keeping you from pressing and training.

Why Choose Us

This Is Not Your Typical Physical Therapy Clinic

At Ethos, every session is one-on-one for a full 60 minutes — no aides, no techs, no being shuffled between exercises in a corner. You get undivided attention and a plan built around your body and your goals, every single visit.

One-on-One, Every Visit

You and only you. No shared sessions, no hand-offs to aides. Every visit is with your Doctor of Physical Therapy from start to finish.

Root Cause, Not Band-Aid Fixes

We find the actual source of your pain — not just the location — and build a plan to address it. Less guessing. More results.

Dr. John Puzio demonstrating a lift with a client at Ethos Physical Therapy in Hackensack, NJ.

Board-Certified Expertise

Our clinician holds a DPT and is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) — a credential held by fewer than 10% of physical therapists.

No Insurance Required

Cash-based care means no insurance-driven limits on session length or frequency. Superbills available for out-of-network reimbursement via Reimbursify.

How It Works

Three Steps Back to the Activities You Love

Evaluate

We start with a thorough movement assessment to find the root cause of your pain or limitation — not just where it hurts.

Treat

Hands-on manual therapy to address tissue restrictions, restore movement, and reduce pain — techniques tailored to your body.

Strengthen

We build your body back to full strength and performance — so you can return to the gym, the trails, or the field with confidence.

Meet Your Provider

Dr. John Puzio

PT, DPT, OCS

Dr. John Puzio is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the owner of Ethos Physical Therapy. His mission is to help as many people as possible achieve a healthy, pain-free life. He has always been obsessed with fitness and sports — and after suffering his own injuries and going through physical therapy himself, he knew this was the work he was meant to do.

After graduating from Rutgers and working in traditional clinic settings, Dr. Puzio grew frustrated with juggling multiple patients at once and never being able to fully solve the problems people came to him with. He founded Ethos PT so that every person gets undivided attention and all the education and tools they need to be their best. Every session is one-on-one, only with Dr. Puzio, with a single goal: helping you get back to the activities you love.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Serving active adults in Hackensack and across Bergen County

I enjoyed coming in very helpful and knowledgeable and I felt better and more confident with the exercises I was prescribed john even sent me emails of the exercises I was doing with videos attached making it easy to follow my program and was always available if you had any questions great place
Danmess 1204
Dr John, is working to help me strengthen weaknesses that lead to an injury and injury prevention. He is very knowledgeable, patient and personable. He asks me questions and really listens to my answers/concerns. He uses that information to plan my personalized treatments accordingly.
Christine Lizzi
Extremely professional! It was a life changing experience and I am going to continue to schedule appointments going forward. 10-out-of-10!
Michael Cavallo
Knowledgeable, practical and professional. It doesn’t get any better than Dr. John. As a fitness professional, I was instantly impressed that I felt immediate relief after my first session. Not only was I feeling better right away, but he also armed me with actionable take-home items to keep me improving until my next visit. Appreciate all you do, Dr. John. Thank you!
Corey Brueckner
Great to know I have a place to get therapy with a knowledgeable Dr., who works with an approach to healing, and not treatments. I appreciate your help!
J. Jeon
I highly appreciate his services, he was very professional and he was very attentive. He helped me a lot with my shoulder and back pain. I definitely recommend him because he knows what he's doing!
Rigoberto Carmona
I’m currently on a healing journey for an old shoulder injury as an amateur Muay Thai fighter. In the short time working with Doctor Puzio, I've been able to regain my confidence in my movements and prevent future injuries. The professionalism and the ability to identify the issue and start fixing it right away has been remarkable.
Day
Dr John is very experienced in not only PT but in helping you manage your issues. He has been great in treating my physical issues from day one. I highly recommend Dr John.
Maurice Carreno
I've been working with John the last 8 weeks to help with persistent shoulder pain from playing tennis. While a slow recovery, it's clearly the path. He is very accommodating with appointments, has ample parking, thorough, and gives clear explanations about the therapy he prescribes. He always follows up with an email reviewing the exercises and confirming the next appointment.
david moyer
I cannot recommend Ethos PT enough. John is the absolute best! He is extremely knowledgeable and puts a lot of effort into your personalized recovery plan. He looks at everything as a whole and how everything functions together to help and support recovery. Without John, I would not have been able to get my quad firing and my knee back to full function! 5/5
Victoria S
Absolutely Amazing!!! Dr. Puzio is very knowledgeable and experienced. I went in with a stubborn shoulder issue that had lasted about 9 months. Within 4-5 weeks at Ethos PT, my shoulder was back to 100%! Thank you so much!
Rene Rivas
Dr. John is such a lovely person and wonderful provider! I have seen him for two different injuries/issues both of which have improved immensely! He is thorough in his evaluation and always provides detailed follow up notes so it was clear what I was to work on in between visits. Do not think twice, book an evaluation today! Your body will thank you.
rebecca whealen
I am so happy I found Dr. Puzio! He is an amazing clinician who really cares about getting you back to your previous function and even further! I enjoy going to out sessions and he has helped me get rid of back pain in no time!!! Thank you Dr. Puzio !
Olympia Argyris
Hurt my knee doing some sport conditioning, and Dr Puzio’s one on one time and attention got me back to doing what I love in no time. Very knowledgable and very personable. Highly recommend!
Ricardo Ruiz
Dr. Puzio at Ethos Physical Therapy has been a tremendous help in all facets from physical therapy to performance training. If anyone is looking for excellent one on one physical therapy services Ethos Physical Therapy is the best place for you. I can't recommend it enough!
Nainil Bhadiyadara
Dr. John is terrific. My shoulders are a mess with tears and impingements, and were quite painful and limiting. He was able to help me get to place where I could get back into the gym without dreading it. And avoided surgery!
michael reilly
John was very prepared for my arrival, fantastic during our first and follow up sessions and available by text. He understood my goals and limitations and has provided with an excellent program to improve my health and longevity. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Kerry Hatch
I’ve had shoulder arthritis for a number of years, and my range of motion was becoming limited with some pain. After a few sessions with John, not only did my range of motion improve, but my pain was diminished. In addition to that he gave me The whole body stretching routine that I use regularly to great benefit. I would wholeheartedly endorse a visit if you have any sort of Shoulder issues. This has definitely improve my life.
Jeff Bergman
Dr John is a through and dedicated professional. A true master of his craft. He found solutions to shoulder and hip issues I've been dealing with for over 20 years! He is great! May G-d bless him and all of clients with health and health!
David Storfer
Great Help! Thanks for helping me understand the shoulder issue and the exercise's you provided.
Michael Martinez
I had a great experience at Ethos PT after coming in with bad neck pain. Dr. John Puzio was thorough as he assessed my pain and pinpointed the muscles in spasm. I quickly felt relief after two sessions. The 1-1 care is unmatched. I appreciated the videos and tutorials that came with my personalized exercise program. Highly recommend Ethos PT.
Kathleen Dwyer
Dr John Puzio provided an easy to follow and comprehensive shoulder PT program that greatly improved my shoulder mobility and strength. He clearly explains what you need to do and why so you can focus your energies on getting better quickly.
Jim Kinneary
Dr. Puzio over at Ethos Physical Therapy knows his stuff. I was quite lost in my recovery process before I was introduced to Dr. Puzio. I highly recommend this office to anyone who feels like they are lost in their recovery process.
nick rizos
If you’re looking for a provider who actually takes their time, cares about their patients and wants to help, Ethos PT is your place! The doctor spends 1on 1 time with you, which is very different from your typical “factory like” PT office.
Amanda Tamburro
ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND KNOWS HIS SHIT! THE ONE ON ONE SESSIONS ARE GREAT AND WORTH THE MONEY! LOCATION IS VERY VERY CLEAN. Equipment is kept clean an presentable. Nothing but good things to stay and I would recommend Ethos PT to anyone I know! Also has really nice workout Tees.
JORDAN LEE
Amazing! Dr John Puzio fixes what’s broken. He’s the real thing. Incredibly knowledgeable, he focuses in on the exact problem/issue and creates a personalized exercise plan that results in consistent improvements in function and pain relief. Dr John monitors the entire process and your progress, personally. He relies on patient feedback throughout the session and from one session to the next. I’m so grateful that I found him. You will be too.
Lisa A
Ever since John started working with me, the range of motion in my shoulder has significantly improved. John has also provided excellent service by giving me support and information to help me through my recovery process.
Jose Tejada
Dr. Puzio really helped me overcome a torn meniscus to regain full function without stiffness or pain and resume my active exercise regimen without surgery. He's given me the exercises I need to maintain function without pills or medical intervention. I highly recommend him.
G Shaffer
Outstanding -- empathetic -- found the issue promptly -- great guy -- highly recommend!
Michael Levin
Have to share my experience with Dr.Puzio! Went with chronic hip pains and will consistent visits and work that he showed that I can perform at home I’m feeling pain free! A very personal , one on one approach, I recommend for anyone with any nagging pains or just simply want to move more freely he is your guy!!!!!!!
Corey Gwiazdowski
I couldn’t recommend coming here more. John is a complete professional. His expertise has been a huge help and he also couldn’t be more accommodating with scheduling
William Black
John has been incredible over the past three years, consistently dedicated to helping me recover from any injury I’ve had. He is highly knowledgeable, attentive, and always goes above and beyond to support me in any way possible. Even when I’m halfway across the country at school, he takes the time to answer my questions and address my concerns. I couldn’t recommend a better physical therapist.
Felix Quiros-Keller
I have an injury on my right ankle and I visited Ethos Physical Therapy with Dr. John Puzio who helped with my injury and after 2 months I can walk without pain. He takes care about my progress making sure I am in the good track in my recovery. I strongly recommend anyone who is seeking physical therapy visit him.
Jorge Villa
John is one of the best physical therapists around. I have had various issues with my shoulder and lower back. He communicates clearly what he believes are root causes of your injury, and he has provided excellent treatment at his clinic. He also recommended various exercises / stretches for continued improvement at home. I strongly recommend him.
David Lee
Dr.Puzio helped me a lot with my plantar fasciitis. After a few sessions my symptoms had subsided. His outlook was patient and calculated which really helped me feel hopeful that i could get better. Highly reccomend
Joe Mazz
Ethos made me a believer after years of trying on my own to fix my shoulder pain. I’m now 100% pain free the program works! I appreciate the Doctor I’m still in disbelief amazing program!!!
Steve Harrison EL
My shoulder was in bad shape, effecting my sleep and my workouts, John at Ethos Physical was thorough in first session and knowledgeable of how to proceed with treatment, including progressive exercises as improvement happened. I would recommend him to anyone, even as just a consult.
Joseph Padilla
Dr. Puzio is one of the smartest and caring PTs and made me feel beyond comfortable & at ease. I’ve never been to PT nor had a major injury so this was my first for both. I immediately felt the compassion and determination from a single person to get me feeling better. Thank you for all your hard work in getting people back and stronger everyday. 💪💪
Mario Canas
Ethos helped me recover from a rotator cuff injury including a torn tendon in my shoulder. I would highly reccomend Ethos for any physical therapy needs.
james amerio
John is great, went to multiple PTs before him, they couldn’t help me. John not only helped me with my back pain, but helped me with my form when squatting or deadlifting so I can fix the problem permanently. Highly recommend
pedro lucas
As a runner and athlete, I was dealing with constant hip, knee, and back pain from my training volume. Working with Dr. John has made a huge difference! His strength and mobility programming improved my mechanics, reduced my pain, and helped my body recover properly. He also taught me what to focus on whenever specific pains show up. Couldn’t recommend him enough!
Chantalle Luberto
I was training for the NYC Marathon and after months of training started to feel runners knee two weeks prior to race day. I went to see Dr John who was so knowledgeable and worked with me to manage knee pain and ensure I could cross that finish line. I am Happy to report I’m still basking in the post Marathon high - knee pain free! Thank you thank you thank you thank you!
Fatima Tsiouris
I've been dealing with back/shoulder pain for the past 10 years with little relief in between. With help from John I have finally started feeling well again. What he has taught me and given me to work on at home has been invaluable in getting me moving again. Along with the work we did he always had a pleasant attitude, and a drive to help his clients meet their goals. Many thanks.
Jace Thorne
My PT Asad is very knowledgeable and friendly! He knows what he is doing and how to treat a patient.
Sakshi Lohia
Great location, always parking and Dr. John is a great and knowledgeable physical therapist. Worked wonders after only one visit and I continue to progress on my journey to recovery from old injuries.
Edwin Amezquta
Great work rehabilitating my daughter's ankle sprain. I especially appreciate that you get one-on-one attention from Dr. Puzio the entire session. Highly recommend!
JooYun Kim
Dr. Puzio is amazing. He helped me in a short period of time recover from constant pain in my shoulder. I highly recommend Dr. Puzio
Vincent Albanese
I started physical therapy due to ongoing shoulder pain, and I’ve already seen noticeable improvement after just a few sessions. A big part of that progress is thanks to Dr. Puzio’s approach—he took the time to really understand my issue, explained everything clearly, and tailored the treatment to what I needed. The sessions feel purposeful and effective, and I’m confident I’m on the right track to full recovery
Brian Musco
They are amazing, when i was there i didn't sleep well at all because my pain ,now I feel much better and I sleep whole night.
Gretel Torres
Areas We Serve

Serving Bergen County and Beyond

We help active adults across Hackensack, Teaneck, Paramus, and 30+ surrounding communities get back to the activities they love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about cash-based PT, what to expect, or how it works? We've got answers.

Do you accept insurance?

We are a cash-based, self-pay clinic — we do not bill insurance directly. We can provide superbills for possible reimbursement through your out-of-network benefits via Reimbursify at no cost to you. HSA and FSA are also accepted.

What makes Ethos PT different from a regular PT clinic?

Every session is one-on-one for a full 60 minutes with a Board-Certified OCS — no aides, no techs, no juggling multiple patients at once. We focus on finding the root cause of your pain and building a plan to address it, not just managing symptoms session to session.

Will I have to stop doing what I love during treatment?

Not necessarily. We work to keep you as active as possible throughout your care. Our goal is to understand what your body can handle right now and build from there — so you can train, run, or compete again as soon as safely possible.

How do I get started?

Start with a free discovery call. It's a quick conversation to make sure we're the right fit for what you're dealing with. From there, we'll schedule your initial evaluation and put together a plan.

Where are you located?

We are located at 873 Main St Suite 2S, Hackensack, NJ 07601 — a few blocks off Route 4 in Bergen County. We serve active adults across Hackensack, Teaneck, Paramus, and 30+ surrounding communities.

Still have questions?

Don't see your question? Reach out — we're happy to help.

Ready to Stop Managing Pain and Start Living Again?

Take the first step. A free discovery call is all it takes to find out if we're the right fit.