What happens in a physical therapy session?

A typical session includes assessment of your current status, instruction and performance of therapeutic exercises targeting your specific condition, possible manual therapy techniques, and education about home exercise and activity modification. Sessions usually last 45-60 minutes and progress based on your response to treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your condition, severity, and progress. Acute injuries typically require 4-8 weeks of treatment (2-3 sessions weekly), while chronic conditions or post-surgical rehabilitation may require 8-12 weeks or longer. Your therapist will discuss expected duration during initial evaluation and adjust based on your progress.

Can I do physical therapy while working?

Yes, most people continue working during physical therapy. Sessions are typically scheduled at flexible times, and many workplaces are accommodating. However, you may need temporary work modifications depending on your condition. Discuss any work-related concerns with your therapist, who can provide guidance on activity restrictions and accommodations.

What's the difference between physical therapy and physical medicine?

Physical Therapy (performed by Physical Therapists with doctoral training) focuses on movement, exercise, and functional rehabilitation. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is a medical specialty with physicians diagnosing and managing rehabilitation. Often they work together, with your physician providing diagnosis and referral, and your physical therapist providing hands-on rehabilitation.

Is physical therapy painful?

Physical therapy should not be severely painful, though you may experience mild discomfort during muscle stretching or when working on stiff joints. Post-treatment soreness similar to exercise soreness is normal. Sharp pain indicates you should stop—tell your therapist immediately if you experience it. Your therapist will adjust intensity to keep you within an appropriate therapeutic range.

Do I need a physician referral for physical therapy?

This varies by location and insurance. In many areas, you can self-refer directly to a physical therapist without a physician's referral. However, some insurance plans require a physician referral for coverage. Check your insurance policy and local regulations. A physician referral is often helpful as it provides your therapist with relevant medical history and diagnostic information.

Can physical therapy prevent surgery?

In some cases, yes. Physical therapy can be effective for many conditions that might otherwise require surgery, such as certain knee injuries, shoulder impingement, or lower back pain. However, some conditions require surgical intervention regardless of therapy. Your physician and physical therapist can discuss whether conservative physical therapy is appropriate for your specific condition.

What if I'm not improving after a few sessions?

If you're not showing expected progress after 2-4 weeks of consistent treatment, discuss this with your therapist. They may need to modify your treatment approach, change exercise progression, or recommend you return to your physician for re-evaluation. Lack of progress sometimes indicates a need for additional imaging or specialist consultation.

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Quick answer

Physical therapy is a movement-based healthcare discipline using evidence-based exercises, manual techniques, and targeted therapeutic interventions to restore function and reduce pain. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, chronic pain conditions, and movement disorders affecting strength and mobility. Physical therapy has substantial clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness, with outcomes depending significantly on individual condition severity and adherence to treatment protocols.

What Physical Therapy is commonly used for

Conditions

Chronic lower back pain Parkinson disease Whiplash injury Urinary incontinence

Physical Therapy

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Who Is This For?

Best for

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Commonly used for

Chronic lower back pain

Parkinson disease

Whiplash injury

Urinary incontinence

Stroke

Osteoarthritis

Symptoms practitioners commonly work with