When you’re in pain, the thought of finding a physical therapist (PT) can be daunting. Perhaps you don’t even know where to start. What questions do you need to ask? How do you know if they’re any good? With so many options out there, choosing the right PT can feel like a guessing game.
Choosing the Right Physical Therapist
But it doesn’t have to be. Here are four key factors to consider when choosing a physical therapist according to Robert Stravinsky: By keeping these points in mind, you can confidently choose a PT who will help you heal and get back to your life pain-free.
1. Qualifications and experience
The most important factor in choosing a PT is making sure they’re qualified to treat your specific condition. When you call to set up an appointment, be sure to ask about the therapist’s qualifications and experience in treating patients with your condition.
Here are some questions you may want to ask:
What school did they go to?
What is their license number?
Are they certified in any specialties?
Do they have experience working with patients who have my condition?
What age groups do they treat?
Do they have any continuing education credits related to my condition?
If the PT you’re considering doesn’t have the necessary experience or certification to treat your condition, move on to someone who does. Your health is too important to leave in the hands of someone who isn’t qualified.
2. Their approach to care
Another important factor in choosing a PT is considering their approach to care. Some therapists take a more traditional approach, while others practice more cutting-edge therapies. There is no right or wrong answer here; it simply comes down to what you feel most comfortable with and what you think will work best for your particular situation.
3. Your goals
Before setting up an appointment with a PT, it’s important to have a clear idea of what your goals are. This will help ensure that the therapist you choose is well-equipped to help you meet those goals.
4. Schedule and location
Once you narrow down your choices based on qualifications, experience, approach to care, and goals, the next step is finding a PT whose schedule and location work for you.
Remember, you’re more likely to stick with PT if it’s convenient for you. If you have to travel an hour out of your way or miss work for appointments, you’re less likely to keep up with the therapy. The same is true if the PT’s hours don’t fit your schedule.
Be sure to ask about the therapist’s availability when you call to set up an appointment. Most PT offices will be happy to accommodate your schedule.
Choosing a physical therapist doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By considering these four factors, you can confidently choose a PT who will help you heal and get back to your life pain-free.
In the end
Choosing the right physical therapist doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By considering these four factors – qualifications and experience, approach to care, goals, and schedule, and location –, you can confidently choose a PT who will help you heal and get back to your life pain-free.
