| About Physical Therapy What Is Physical Therapy? Is Physical Therapy Right for Me? How Do I Choose? | Glossary Treatment Applications Types of Physical Therapy Credentials |
How Do I Choose a Physical Therapist?
If you’ve suffered an injury, ask your doctor if physical therapy is right for you. Your doctor can tell you if physical therapy will help. Many health insurance plans cover physical therapy following an injury, so it’s a good idea to get a referral from your doctor.
Physical therapists are licensed health care professionals who complete a degree program approved by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the Council on Medical Education and Hospitals of the American Medical Association, or an agency recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. A physical therapist may have a bachelor’s or a master’s degree (MPT) and must be licensed to practice by the state. Many identify themselves as physical therapists by placing the letters PT after their name.
Physical therapists often specialize in particular health problems. Depending on your individual situation, you may choose a practitioner who specializes in orthopedics, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, or cardiopulmonary physical therapy.
