Skip the Doctor's Office: Why You Can See a Physical Therapist First
When you experience pain from a shoulder, back, or knee injury, your first instinct might be to schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor—or perhaps even an orthopedic specialist. But did you know that there’s a quicker and more direct path to pain relief? As a patient, you have the option to skip those long waiting times and go straight to a physical therapist.
What Does "Direct Access" Mean?
Physical therapists are direct-access practitioners, which means that you don’t need a referral from your family doctor or an orthopedic specialist to seek treatment. If you're struggling with musculoskeletal pain, like in your shoulder, back, or knees, you can contact a physical therapist directly, without having to wait weeks for a specialist appointment.
Physical therapists are Doctorate-level professionals who are highly trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting muscles, bones, and joints. And, in most cases, we don’t even need imaging tests right away to begin addressing your symptoms. We have the expertise to evaluate your condition and determine the best course of treatment.
Fast Pain Relief, Often in One Session
One of the best benefits of working directly with a physical therapist is how quickly we can help you feel better. In many cases, we can improve your pain and mobility after just one session. This allows you to continue doing the activities you love, without unnecessary delays or interruptions to your routine.
Unlike other healthcare providers who might recommend a period of rest, physical therapists typically don’t encourage complete inactivity. We understand that rest can sometimes be overkill, especially for athletes, as it can result in loss of fitness and performance. Instead, we focus on providing modifications and exercises that help you stay active while recovering. This approach can often speed up your recovery process while minimizing the risk of worsening the injury.
Fast Access to Care
In a busy healthcare system, getting an appointment with your primary care doctor or specialist can take weeks. However, at a private, low-volume practice like ours, we can typically get you in within 2-3 days—and often, we can see you the same day you call. This means that you don’t have to wait to get on the road to recovery.
Establishing a relationship with a trusted physical therapist ensures that you have a reliable resource for managing pain and improving your mobility. Plus, you get the advantage of receiving personalized care from someone who knows you and your body.
Not Sure If Physical Therapy is Right for You?
If you're unsure whether physical therapy is the right path, we invite you to tour our clinic and meet our team. You can also schedule a free call to discuss your symptoms and ask questions. Whether you're dealing with a sports injury or everyday aches and pains, we’re here to help you find the best solution.
By bypassing the usual wait times and seeing a physical therapist directly, you can get back to doing what you love, faster—and without unnecessary delays. So why wait? Contact us today and let’s get started on your recovery journey!
