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Physician Referral Not Needed: You Can See a Physical Therapist First

Mar 23, 2026 / Article

Seeing a physical therapist first, without a physician's referral, is allowed in the United States, and it is called direct access. Not only is it safe and effective, direct access can help you recover faster, among other benefits.

Physical Therapy Guide to Proximal Humerus Fractures

Mar 12, 2023 / Guide

A proximal humerus fracture is a serious injury to the humerus bone in the shoulder joint that requires immediate treatment. Physical therapy is essential to preserve shoulder function, with or without surgery.

Physical Therapy Guide to Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement)

Jul 19, 2020 / Guide

Hip impingement involves a change in the shape of the surface of the hip joint. It can lead to stiffness, pain, and damage to the tissue and/or bone.

6 Tips to Shovel Snow Safely

Oct 17, 2017 / Health Tips

Snow shoveling is a repetitive activity that can cause muscle strain to the lower back and shoulders. A few precautions can help you avoid injury and get the help you need if you experience pain.

What Is Little League Elbow?

Oct 7, 2024 / Health Tips

Little league or pitcher's elbow, also known as medial epicondyle apophysitis, is a common injury among young baseball players. Learn the causes, how to prevent it, and how a physical therapist can help.

Pain Profile: Assess Your Pain

Sep 1, 2020 / Handouts

This pain profile can help you talk to your health care provider about how pain is affecting your life and your preferences for managing pain.

Safe Pain Management

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No one wants to live in pain. But no one should put their health at risk in an effort to be pain free. Learn about physical therapy for effective, safe pain management.

Opioids Are No More Effective Than Nonopioids for Pain

Mar 28, 2018 / Did You Know?

According to a recent study, it appears that opioids may not be any more effective than nonopioid medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for treating chronic back pain, or hip or knee osteoarthritis-related pain.

Dry Needling by a Physical Therapist: What You Should Know

May 31, 2024 / Health Tips

Dry needling is a technique that some physical therapists use to treat pain and movement impairments. It is not the same as acupuncture. Learn how physical therapists target pain with dry needling.

Choosing Your Physical Therapist

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Find the best physical therapist to help you.