For those who are unaware, it is possible to go directly to a physical therapist for your injury. This is called Direct Access. With many insurance plans (except Medicare), there is no need to see your PCP 1st for that ankle sprain or new onset of back pain. A qualified physical therapist can evaluate the problem and if necessary refer you out to your PCP or an orthopedic (if what you are presenting for requires further medical attention).
You no longer need to wait days or weeks to be seen by a physician, suffering without a solution. No longer are you stuck just being given pills and told to call back if not better in a month. The wait and see approach rarely works. All it does is lead to persistent pain and reduced function. The time to achieve a successful solution for those aches and pains is now but 1 call away. By in large, the sooner a person is treated after injury, the quicker they heal. 
The most commonly asked question is…“But don’t I need some image of my ankle, knee, back, etc so I know what it is?” The answer is absolutely NOT. As I have written before, imaging RARELY is indicated, and often does more HARM than good. In only a small percent of cases does or will imaging change a treatment plan. This begs the question- why are they ordered at such a high rate? Good question.
“But how can you treat me if you don’t know what it is?” This is where the knowledge and skill of the physical therapist comes into play. We ask questions, test how you move, and how you/your body respond provides the information necessary to develop a successful treatment.
Physical Therapists are the muscle and joint experts. You would not go to your PCP for an eye or tooth problem, so why even think of going to them for a muscle or joint problem. Let them manage the rest of your physical health, and let the physical therapist get you back in the game after a muscle or joint injury.
Not sure all that a physical therapist does or treats? Perfect, get your answers and more right HERE. Tired of dealing with those aches and pains that are interfering with daily life? Time to do something about it. Get your questions answered live by setting up a telephone consult.
No need to live another day in pain…Direct Access to physical therapy will get you back doing what you love faster.