​3 Myths about Physical Therapy You Have Heard

Myth #1:  I need to be injured to see a physical therapist
Physical therapists do treat post-injury and post-surgery, but that’s only part of what they do!
PTs will often treat conditions like vertigo, and preventatively treat conditions like balance issues, chronic pain, joint pain, headaches. There is good evidence for strength “booster sessions” for conditions like osteoarthritis.​

Myth #2:  I need a referral to get physical therapy
70% of people think a referral or prescription is required to be evaluated by a physical therapist, however, referrals are no longer legally required to receive PT!
Some insurances still require a referral for them to cover PT, while others do not. Call our office to see if your insurance requires a referral, or to ask about our self-pay rate (no referral required).

Myth #3: Surgery and/or medication are better options
Surgery and medication have their place in medicine, but studies show physical therapy is as or more effective than prescription painkillers and common surgeries like lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disk disease, meniscectomy, arthroscopic shoulder surgery, low back fusion and many more.
Physical therapy is often a route to pain relief without some of the downsides that prescription painkillers can have, such as uncomfortable and dangerous side effects, and addiction.
Our philosophy is to start with the safest, least intrusive method of care, and then triage from there as needed.
 
Mike van Der Laan, PT, DPT
Lisa Bartz
616-662-0990