Yes. In the United States, and Ohio specifically, you do not need a referral from your doctor. However, some insurance plans may require a referral or pre-authorization prior to receiving coverage. You should check with your insurance provider to find out if they have specific requirements prior to seeking treatment.

Additionally, many states including Ohio have direct access laws that allow patients to receive these services without a referral for up to 30 days.

When you first visit, your licensed therapist will conduct an evaluation to determine the cause of your pain or discomfort, and develop a plan. During the evaluation, they will likely ask questions about your medical history, and perform an assessment to gauge the range of movement in specific joints and muscles. The results of this assessment will help the therapist determine what type of treatments may be beneficial.

Physical therapy is very beneficial for certain conditions. There are home-remedies to help alleviate your pain at onset, or before your appointment. For example, you can take over-the-counter medications for mild muscle aches and pains. You can also try applying heat or ice packs to the affected area, stretching and exercising regularly, using a foam roller to massage your muscles, and taking warm baths.

It is important to remember that physical therapy should always be your first option for treating chronic or acute pain conditions.

While physical therapy is aimed at relieving pain and improving function, there are some risks associated with it. Particularly if you don’t follow your therapist’s instructions. or use the wrong type of exercises for your condition. In some cases it can worsen an existing injury or cause a new one. To avoid this possibility, you should always discuss any concerns with your doctor before beginning a physical therapy program. With the right precautions in place, this is a safe and effective way to manage pain and improve the quality of living.