How to Choose a Physical Therapist
Friday, July 16th, 2010In the United States, physical therapists must have a four-year college degree in physical therapy, which can be followed by a master’s degree in the field. After graduation, PTs must pass a state- administered national exam to be licensed. Other requirements vary by state. So does your access to PTs: Currently, thirty-two states allow “direct access” to evaluation and treatment by a PT. Forty-six states allow direct access to evaluation only; for the rest, a doctor’s referral is necessary.
Look for a licensed therapist who is an Orthopedic Certified Specialist (O.C.S.) who specializes in the back. The more advanced training they have, the better. Several types of advanced credentialing exist: certifications, clinical residencies, advanced master’s programs. A therapist with the initials M.O.M.T. after her name, for instance, has a master’s degree in orthopedic manual therapy.
Physical therapists can be board certified by the American Physical Therapy Association in a variety of specialties, from pediatric to geriatric. Certified specialists use the initials “C.S.” preceded by the initial of their specialty area (as in O.C.S., above). Neurologic and sports-certified PTs are appropriate for those with spinal cord injury or extensive athletic involvement, respectively.
Ask about credentials and education. In addition to a state license, what other certification and degrees does he or she hold?
Ask about experience. How many years have they been practicing? How much of that time has been devoted to treating the area of the back?
Ask about the practice. What sort of patients do they see? What is the staff-to-patient ratio? Is there adequate assistance to allow enough time for you?
Take a tour of the facility. Look not just at the PT’s office but also at the area in which exercise programs are held. Be sure that the space is well-maintained and the equipment provides the variety you need. Also, is it convenient geographically and in terms of your schedule?
No matter how careful you are, there are times when back pain strikes and it doesn’t seem as though it will ever go away. In the next chapter we explore the wide variety of approaches to help you feel better.
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