Twenty years ago , a person with an injury would first go to a physician.  The physician would then refer for physical therapy if it was deemed necessary.   Increasingly, people are going to physical therapists as a first choice when dealing with problems with their motion or mobility.  They appreciate the time taken by a physical therapist to evaluate their problem, and the personalized health plan developed to address specific needs.  Physical therapists diagnose and treat people of all ages, including newborns, children, and elderly individuals. They may consult and practice with other health professionals to help you improve your mobility.  Physical therapists can help improve or restore the mobility you need to move forward with your life.

With most insurance, you can now make an appointment with a physical therapist directly, without a physician's referral.  Check with your insurance provider to verify their requirements for a physical therapy visit.  Because physical therapists receive specialized education in a variety of sciences – physics, human anatomy, kinesiology (human movement, they understand how the body works and how to get you moving again. They know how to manage all four of the body's major systems – musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular/pulmonary, and integumentary (skin) – to restore and maximize mobility.

Physical Therapy Addresses Many Kinds of Conditions
Whether you are living with diabetes or recovering from a stroke, a fall, or a sports injury, a physical therapist is a trusted health care professional who will work closely with you to evaluate your condition and develop an effective, personalized plan of care. A physical therapist can help you achieve long-term results for many conditions that limit your ability to move.
Your physical therapist can help you with:

• Arthritis
• Back Pain
• Fitness
• Knee Pain
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Overuse Injuries
• Shoulder Pain
• Stroke
• Sprains, strains, and fractures
• And much more

The Optimal Combination of Treatments
Your physical therapist will teach you how to prevent or manage a health condition and help motivate you during your treatment so you can function optimally. Your physical therapist will work with you to help you understand your body so you will achieve long-term health benefits.  They will recommend other health care specialists that can assist and guide you in recovery.  A physical therapist can take the time to listen to your concerns and gather the necessary data to develop an optimal program to restore your health.

A Personal Wellness Plan Tailored for Your Needs
Your physical therapist will examine you and develop a plan of care using a variety of treatment techniques that help you move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Your physical therapist can also help you prevent loss of mobility and motion by developing a fitness- and wellness-oriented program tailored to your specific needs.

Partnership in Health
Physical therapists are your partners throughout your journey to restoring and maintaining motion so that you can function at your personal best. They have an established history of helping individuals improve their quality of life.  A physical therapist will help you move freely again without pain and discomfort.