Nicole Lazar Stride Physio

Nicole Lazar, PT, DPT - Physical Therapist

Nicole earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Eastern Washington University after completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Washington, where she focused on public health, nutritional sciences, and food systems. Her education and experiences have shaped a holistic approach to care that considers not only injury and movement, but also the many lifestyle factors that influence long-term health and performance.

Nicole's interest in physical therapy began through her own experiences with sports injuries and rehabilitation. She was drawn to the profession by the opportunity to help people return to the activities that give their lives meaning, whether that means getting back to work, returning to sport, or simply moving with greater confidence.

Prior to physical therapy school, Nicole worked as an Emergency Medical Technician in downtown Seattle, caring for patients in fast-paced and medically complex situations. This experience sharpened her skills in patient assessment, screening, and clinical decision-making while teaching her to remain calm, compassionate, and adaptable under pressure. Her EMT background, combined with experience in both outpatient orthopedics and hospital-based rehabilitation, allows her to recognize the bigger picture of a patient's health and recovery.

Nicole has particular interests in return-to-sport rehabilitation, injury prevention, health and wellness coaching, and helping patients build sustainable habits that support lifelong movement. Her background in nutrition and public health allows her to incorporate conversations about fueling, recovery, and overall wellness into the rehabilitation process when appropriate.

Education

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Eastern Washington University

  • Bachelor of Arts in Public Health: Nutrutional Sciences & Food Systems, University of Washington

Personal Interests

Outside the clinic, Nicole fully embraces the Pacific Northwest lifestyle. She enjoys running, hiking, cycling, snowboarding, and exploring Washington's mountains and trails. A self-proclaimed foodie and coffee enthusiast, she also loves experimenting with new recipes and discovering Seattle's next great café. Whether she's helping patients prepare for their next race, return to outdoor adventures, or simply feel stronger in everyday life, Nicole brings enthusiasm, curiosity, and a genuine love of movement to her work.