Shop around: just like choosing a physician, before choosing a PT:

•        check how many years and what kind of experience

•         Ask about the PT’s treatment philosophy: some will tend to use more modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, others tend to be more manual- soft tissue or joint mobilizations, others emphasize more exercise. 

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA) must work under the supervision of the PT. They receive training from accredited PTA school, which is usually offered at community colleges.

* In Florida, if you have a diagnosis already, you can see a PT directly for as long as you need.  If no physician diagnosis, you can first see the PT for 21 days and return to the doctor for follow up afterwards if needed.  Medicare patients will need a doctor’s referral before starting a physical therapy regimen (doctors include medical, osteopathic, chiropractic, dental, and podiatry).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Other resources: 

American Physical Therapy Association: www.apta.org/consumer

Florida Physical Therapy Association: www.wcdfpta.com

West Central District Chair: www.wcdfpta.com