About Us

History

Function First Physical Therapy was founded in 2005 by James Hawley, PT, with a clear vision: to provide exceptional, hands-on physical therapy focused on achieving meaningful functional outcomes for every patient. Starting as a small clinic nestled within a local fitness center, Function First quickly established a reputation for delivering outstanding treatment results.

From the outset, James's commitment to skilled manual therapy and the implementation of effective functional exercises resonated with the community. Patients experienced significant improvements, leading to strong word-of-mouth referrals that fueled rapid growth.

By 2009, the flourishing practice had outgrown its initial space. Recognizing the need for a larger and more accessible location to better serve the growing patient base, Function First Physical Therapy moved to its current prominent location on Main Street in Hyannis. This move marked a significant milestone in the clinic's development, providing ample space for expanded services and a more comfortable environment for patients.

Continuing its commitment to innovation and providing the most effective rehabilitation strategies, Function First Physical Therapy has strategically incorporated cutting-edge technology into its practice. The addition of the Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill offers patients a unique opportunity for low-impact rehabilitation and performance training. Furthermore, the integration of BlazePods for neurocognitive exercises underscores the clinic's dedication to addressing not only physical impairments but also enhancing motor control, reaction time, and overall functional performance.

Today, Function First Physical Therapy remains deeply committed to its founding principles. While the clinic has grown and evolved, the core focus remains on delivering individualized, hands-on care, empowering patients to achieve their functional goals and return to the activities they love. Our history is a testament to the power of skilled therapy, patient-centered care, and a continuous pursuit of innovative approaches to rehabilitation.

Our Philosophy

At Function First Physical Therapy, our philosophy is centered on providing the highest caliber of individualized care for a comprehensive range of orthopaedic conditions, post-operative rehabilitation, and sports-related injuries. We are committed to delivering the highest therapist to patient ratio for every session, ensuring focused attention and a personalized approach in an ethical, professional, and genuinely caring environment.

We take immense pride in our hands-on clinical skills, which are continuously refined and enhanced through an unwavering commitment to ongoing continuing education. Our aim is to provide innovative and evidence-based treatment grounded in a functional approach, empowering each patient to achieve their unique personal goals and return to the activities they value most. We believe in active collaboration with our patients, fostering a partnership that promotes lasting recovery and improved well-being right here on Cape Cod.

Mission Statement

Function First Physical Therapy is dedicated to empowering the Cape Cod community to reach their peak physical function and overall well-being. We achieve this by providing exceptional, evidence-based physical therapy in an ethical, professional, and compassionate setting, always prioritizing each individual's unique goals. We are committed to ongoing learning and professional development, actively participating in the physical therapy community and research to ensure we offer the most advanced care. As an active partner within Cape Cod, we also proudly support local charitable events and organizations, striving to contribute to the health and vitality of our community.