Dr. Sterling L. Carter, an accomplished physical therapist, entrepreneur, author, and retired U.S. Army officer, continues to leave a lasting impact on healthcare and business communities. As founder and CEO of Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, Carter has developed a multi-location healthcare practice in Texas emphasizing innovative patient care and wellness.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Dr. Carter’s journey began with a strong academic foundation. He earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Physical Therapy from Langston University, a historically black institution renowned for cultivating future healthcare leaders. Building on this foundation, Carter pursued advanced education, earning a Master of Science in Physical Therapy specializing in Orthopedics from Texas Woman’s University in 2007. He further distinguished himself by attaining a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Simmons University in 2013. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
A Distinguished Military Career
Carter’s commitment to service is exemplified by over 25 years of active duty in the U.S. Army, culminating in retirement at the rank of Major. His military tenure includes deployments during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom, where he served in critical roles under demanding conditions. As Executive Officer of an Army hospital unit, Carter oversaw the management and welfare of 350 soldiers, demonstrating exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Throughout his career, he earned multiple military honors, including two Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, the Saudi Arabia Service Medal, and the Combat Medic Badge.
Entrepreneurship and Healthcare Innovation
In 2008, leveraging his clinical experience and passion for patient care, Dr. Carter founded Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness. The practice rapidly expanded, establishing multiple locations in Sugar Land, Stafford, and Bellaire, Texas. Carter’s vision centers on providing personalized rehabilitation and wellness services using evidence-based and innovative treatment methods.
Expanding his entrepreneurial footprint, Carter co-founded Sterling Staffing Solutions, a healthcare staffing agency serving Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Louisiana. Additionally, he launched Sterling Diagnostic Testing Services, catering to diverse healthcare needs with efficiency and professionalism. His business portfolio also includes Carter Brothers Consulting and Cartera Health, reflecting a broad commitment to healthcare industry development.
Media Presence and Thought Leadership
Dr. Carter has appeared on the nationally recognized TLC show My 600-lb Life, where he offered specialized rehabilitation services to patients undergoing significant weight loss journeys. His contributions on the show highlighted his expertise in physical therapy and compassionate patient care.
Alongside his twin brother, Stephen Levi Carter, Dr. Carter co-authored the book Double Your Success: Principles to Build a Multimillion-Dollar Business. The book shares practical strategies for business growth, drawing on their combined experiences in entrepreneurship and leadership.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Carter’s professional accomplishments have earned him notable accolades, including being named Most Admired CEO by the Houston Business Journal for his dedication to business innovation and servant leadership. He was also recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 by the Fort Bend Business Journal and named one of the Top Houston Healthcare Professionals in both 2012 and 2013. His alma mater, Langston University, honored him as Alumnus of the Year in 2018, while his high school inducted him into the Willowridge High School Hall of Fame in 2016.
Philanthropy and Mentorship
A passionate mentor and community leader, Carter actively supports aspiring physical therapists and young professionals. He is a member of several organizations, including the Houston Metropolitan chapter of 100 Black Men of America, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. His early life achievements include attaining the rank of Life Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, illustrating a lifelong commitment to leadership and service.
Personal LifeDr. Carter is married to Crystal Carter, and together they are raising their son, Garry. The family remains rooted in Houston, where Dr. Carter continues to blend his clinical expertise, military discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit to enrich his community.
For more information, visit drsterlingcarter.com.
