Eric Scott’s Wellness Reminder: You Don’t Need a Doctor’s Referral to Start Physical Therapy

I've been athletic almost my entire life but these days, some of those old injuries are coming back to haunt me.

I know I'm in good company. Maybe you were surprised by some back soreness after raking your leaves. Or maybe you're just not sure if your knee will support weekly pickleball games.

You might want to consider physical therapy. Many people don't realize that you do NOT need a doctor's referral or prescription to start physical therapy, and my friends at Trinity Rehab often can get you feeling better in just three 30-minute appointments.

Trinity Rehab combines experienced professionals with cutting-edge technology to deliver fast results. For example, their EPAT uses "pressure waves that stimulate the metabolism, enhance blood circulation, and accelerate the healing process" to eliminate pain and restore range of motion, according to their website. It can be used to address neck, lower back, knee and elbow pain, as well as sin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.

Direct access is the law that allows you to see a physical therapist without a referral from a physician, dentist, podiatrist, or nurse practitioner. Under the law, the physical therapist can treat you for up to 30 days. If you are not making reasonable progress after that time, you are referred to a physician.

Before your first appointment, Trinity Rehab team members will determine whether your insurance will cover your physical therapy without a doctor's referral or prescription, and notify you promptly if one is needed.

For Medicare patients, a doctor's referral is strongly recommended but not required. However, the physical therapist's care plan must be certified by a physician or nonphysician practitioner within 30 days of the first therapy visit.

All of this is designed to help you get treatment faster. If you have nagging pain or even a new injury that's keeping you from the lifestyle you want to have, don't wait any longer. Call your local Trinity Rehab location or contact them online at trinity-rehab.com.