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Doctor recommended … and patient approved

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Doctor recommended … and patient approved

Doctor recommended … and patient approved
Sep 18, 2025
Physical Therapy

Above: McKenzie method exercise for the neck, neck pain relief exercises. Photo: Adobe Stock.

Maybe physical therapists need a new—if slightly overused—slogan: “Doctor Recommended.” Because it’s true.

According to a 2024 YouGov survey , about half of all Americans (51%) have seen a physical therapist at some point in their lives. For people over 55, that number climbs to 60%.

One reason is direct access—the ability to see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. (Note: some insurance may still require a referral for coverage.) And, when there is a referral, the patient can see the physical therapist of their choice. That has given PT a real boost. But even when we aren’t the first stop, physicians overwhelmingly support physical therapy. Primary care providers and even emergency department doctors regularly endorse PT for pain management and beyond.

By and large, physicians like us! The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) reported in 2023 that:

  • 95% of primary care physicians view the PT profession very positively.
  • 92% trust the care PTs provide.
  • 88% would like to refer more patients to PT.
  • 95% believe collaborating with PTs benefits patient care.

Emergency department physicians are also strong advocates—especially in light of the opioid epidemic. Why? Because physical therapy works. A study in the Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians found that patients who began PT in the emergency department not only reported reduced pain before discharge but were also less likely to return with the same complaint up to a year later.

Why Patients Choose PT

Efficacy is the biggest factor—PT consistently gets results. But patient empowerment matters too. At Cedar Hill, we often hear that people prefer:

  • A more active role in their treatment
  • Options that avoid surgery
  • Non-drug approaches to pain management and healing

Another important factor is communication. Physical therapy simply can’t begin without meaningful dialogue. Patients tell us that not being heard is one of the most frustrating parts of health care. Our practice depends on listening first and then responding.

So maybe the best slogan isn’t just “Doctor Recommended.”

It’s “We hear you.”

Physical Therapy