Are you too busy to seek help for those chronic headaches? Is it more likely that your knee pain will go away on its own before the appointment with your physician finally rolls around? Are you tired of having to cross your legs before you sneeze to prevent a leak, but uncomfortable discussing it with your doctor?

These are common concerns. Fortunately Pennsylvania, like most states, recognizes physical therapists’ ability to provide care for musculoskeletal injuries without a physician’s referral. In many cases, you do not have to see a doctor before seeing a physical therapist.

There are some exclusions. Not all therapists are licensed to treat without physician referral. A direct access certification is required and can be obtained by meeting specific guidelines. In addition, not all insurance plans will reimburse for care provided without a physician’s referral, however most do; including Highmark, some Geisinger plans, Capital Blue Cross and even workers’ compensation.

Medicare does require that you see a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner prior to being referred for physical therapy.

So when should you see a physical therapist? Physical therapists are licensed and trained to assess and treat a wide range of conditions through a variety of methods. Many of today’s therapists are graduating with a doctorate. They are trained to screen for conditions which may need to be referred on to a specialist.

A 30-to 60-minute detailed

musculoskeletal evaluation combined with a thorough history of your symptoms will guide your therapist to provide a physical therapy diagnosis that will then guide treatment. Because the musculoskeletal system’s purpose is to move, movement or exercise is often an integral part of treatment.

Prescribed exercises will be specific to your condition and stage of healing. Early in the recovery process, the region may be too sensitive for exercise. Modalities such as ultrasound or electric stimulation may be helpful in calming the tissues until gentle movement can be initiated.

Your specific signs and symptoms during each treatment session will dictate what procedures are used. You may need manual therapy (massage, myofascial work or mobilization) traction (also called decompression), electric stimulation or ultrasound. Your therapist may spend the session correcting your posture and instructing you in proper ergonomics. Treatment is never “one size fits all” (what I like to call “one size fits none”).

Physical therapists have extensive training in a variety of methods to restore normal function. Your therapist will work with you to help you meet your goals in a way that makes you most comfortable.

Alicia Spence is facility director and McKenzie-certified spine specialist at Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services, State College.