318,246
Physical Therapists
100%
Accepting patients
43%
Most common: DPT
FindClarity lists 318,246 physical therapists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is DPT (43%). 31% accept Medicare.
Physical therapists (PTs) help people recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and movement retraining. They treat back pain, sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, arthritis, balance disorders, and neurological conditions.
Physical therapists earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which is a three-year graduate program after a bachelor's degree. Their training covers anatomy, biomechanics, exercise science, and hands-on techniques. Many PTs specialize in areas like orthopedics, sports, geriatrics, or neurology.
Physical therapy is often the most effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain. Research shows it works as well as surgery for many common conditions like rotator cuff tears, meniscus tears, and spinal stenosis. It is also a critical part of recovery after joint replacement, ACL reconstruction, and stroke.
See a physical therapist for back or neck pain, joint pain, recovery after surgery (knee replacement, ACL repair, rotator cuff), sports injuries, balance problems or fall prevention, chronic pain, reduced mobility, or any musculoskeletal condition your doctor recommends therapy for. In most states, you can see a PT directly without a doctor's referral.
The first visit (about 45 to 60 minutes) includes a thorough evaluation of your movement, strength, flexibility, and pain. Your PT will ask about your daily activities and goals. They will put together a treatment plan with exercises and hands-on techniques, and teach you what to do at home between visits. Follow-up sessions are typically two to three times per week.
Session copay: $20-75 · Session (out-of-pocket): $75-200 · Initial evaluation: $100-250
In most states, you can see a physical therapist directly without a doctor referral (called direct access). However, some insurance plans still require a referral for coverage. Check with your insurance company. Even in direct-access states, your PT may coordinate with your doctor for certain conditions or if imaging is needed.
It varies by condition. Minor sprains may improve in four to six sessions. Post-surgical rehab typically runs six to twelve weeks (two to three times per week). Chronic conditions may need longer courses. Your PT sets goals at the start and adjusts the plan as you progress. Insurance plans may limit covered sessions per year.
Therapy should not cause sharp or lasting pain. Some discomfort is normal. Stretching tight tissues and strengthening weak muscles involves effort. Your PT will push you enough to make progress but should never push past what you can tolerate. Speak up if something hurts; they will modify the approach.
Physical therapists focus on exercises, movement retraining, and manual therapy to build strength and improve function. Chiropractors focus primarily on spinal adjustments (joint manipulation). PTs take an active approach: you do the work, and they guide you. Treatment philosophies differ, and both can be effective for certain conditions.
Products and services that complement your care.
Percussive therapy devices and recovery tools recommended by physical therapists and chiropractors.
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Most health insurance plans cover physical therapy with a copay per session, typically $20 to $75. Many plans limit the number of covered sessions per year (commonly 20 to 60). Some require prior authorization or a doctor's referral for coverage. Ask your PT's office to verify your benefits before starting, including any visit caps or annual limits.