Finding the right physical therapist can put you on the path to reducing pain and restoring your mobility following an injury, accident, surgery or illness.
Use these tips to find the right physical therapist for your health needs.
![Young female physical therapist assisting senior female patient](/images/health-topics/physical-therapy/female-physical-therapis-assisting-senior-patient-600x300.jpg)
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View Patient ResourcesMake appointments, message your doctor and more through our patient portal.
Enroll NowMake appointments, message your doctor and more through our patient portal.
Enroll NowAccess award-winning, comprehensive primary and specialty care for your whole family.
View All ServicesOur contributions to medical research and education lead to better healthcare outcomes.
Research at SutterJoin our robust training programs led by nationally known healthcare leaders.
Explore OpportunitiesJoin our robust training programs led by nationally known healthcare leaders.
Explore OpportunitiesExplore the ways we provide innovative, compassionate care through our network.
Learn About Sutter HealthShape the future of healthcare and build your career within our diverse teams.
Find JobsShape the future of healthcare and build your career within our diverse teams.
Find JobsFinding the right physical therapist can put you on the path to reducing pain and restoring your mobility following an injury, accident, surgery or illness.
Use these tips to find the right physical therapist for your health needs.
You may not need a referral from your primary care doctor, but you can ask your doctor for a recommendation to a physical therapist or facility. You can also ask family, friends and coworkers for recommendations.
If you will be seeing a physical therapist frequently, choose a location that is close to your home or workplace. This will make it easier for you to keep your appointments and continue your care.
If you need a particular type of rehabilitation, such as aquatic therapy or specific adaptive equipment, call to make sure the physical therapy location you’re interested in offers those services. It’s also a good idea to see if certain locations offer specialized programs specific to your needs, such as stroke rehabilitation or hand therapy programs.
Ask how many patients the physical therapist has worked with who have your specific condition. The more experience they have the better your results will likely be. Make sure they are licensed and check to see if they have any advanced certifications or credentialing. Examples of advanced training certifications include OCS (orthopedic certified specialist), SCS (sports certified specialist) and WCS (women's health certified specialist).
A physical therapist should be your partner in helping you succeed. Find someone with whom you have good rapport and the ability to openly communicate. If you experience pain or discomfort during an exercise, you should feel comfortable alerting your physical therapist.
Check your health plan to determine the specific details of your coverage in order to pay the least out-of-pocket expenses. Have the physical therapist’s office verify acceptance of your particular plan.
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