This article originated from Sol del Valle and has been translated for English readers.
Dr. Jorge Esparza, owner of Beyond Borders Physical Therapy, was born in the Roaring Fork Valley and graduated from Colorado Mesa University and University of Colorado Anschutz. He studied exercise science for four years and then spent three more years becoming a physical therapist. The goal of Beyond Borders is to provide equitable physical therapy and patient-centered care beyond the borders of the traditional medical system. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
What was the inspiration behind Beyond Borders?
From a young age, I had many experiences within the medical system, accompanying my parents, relatives and friends to their appointments and often interpreting for them due to the language barrier. I witnessed many difficult situations, such as when my parents were injured, and I spent a lot of time with them during their visits. That’s when I understood the deep impact medicine can have. Physical therapy isn’t just about a 15-minute appointment; it’s a continuous process, sometimes lasting weeks or months and it allows you to build meaningful relationships with patients.
What’s your favorite part of being a physical therapist?
Being able to form close relationships with patients and become part of their community. Seeing them improve physically and mentally, regain their independence and restore their quality of life. It’s incredibly fulfilling to have a lasting impact not only for them but for their families as well.
Who has been part of your support team over the years?
My father passed away when I was 16, and I spent a lot of time with him within the health care system. That experience left a deep mark on me. I had to interpret for him many times, and I saw my mother left to face it all alone. That became a huge motivation to pursue this career, in part as a way to give back for all the support we received from the community during that time. This business, along with my desire to offer a scholarship for medical students, is a way to honor that. I’ve received a lot of support from my family and from my girlfriend and her family, who have always stood by me. My patients are part of that community, too. They help me just as much as I help them.
Where did the name Beyond Borders come from?
It came from all the barriers that exist in the health care system. Things like referrals, hidden costs, lack of Spanish-language care and limited accessibility.
Our mission is to remove those barriers by offering services without requiring insurance, providing bilingual staff, extended hours and benefits like free gym memberships and access to mental health services. We want patients to feel supported from the very first step.
Would you share a story about a major obstacle you faced early on and how you overcame it?
Many of the obstacles stem from how the medical system is currently structured. Most people are used to only seeking care once something has already gone wrong, when they’re already sick or injured. A big part of the challenge is shifting that mindset and educating patients about the importance of preventive care.
You maintain your car because you put a lot of miles on it, you take it to the mechanic and it gets fixed. But your body is the only one you’ve got, and we need to take care of it.
Beyond Borders Physical Therapy hosted its open house celebration on Saturday, July 19, marking the official opening. The event welcomed community members to tour the facility, meet the staff, and enjoy an evening of celebration, highlighting a meaningful milestone for Dr. Jorge Esparza and his team.
For more information, visit Beyond Borders’ office at 25 Market Street, Unit A in Glenwood Springs or call 970-312-4042.