In previous months, our blog has discussed what exactly physical therapy is and has dispelled some common myths that surround the practice of physical therapy. This month, we want to dig a little deeper into one of the myths – do I need a referral from a medical doctor to go to the physical therapist?
As mentioned in a recent blog, a physician referral is not necessary for a visit to either of our metro Atlanta locations to be assessed by a physical therapist. In the state of Georgia, you can go directly to a physical therapist for 8 visits or 21 days for a specific condition without a referral. That being said, a referral may be needed if a specific treatment is deemed necessary. We can also refer you to a specialist should our treatment of your injury, illness, or other physical need require supplemental medical attention.
In addition to our ability to see and treat patients without another physician’s referral, we also offer a free physical therapy consultation. For example, if you wake up with shoulder pain and don’t know what your next steps should be, you can come in and see a physical therapist at one of our two locations in Flowery Branch or Dacula, Ga. Many times when the pain starts, patients don’t know if a physical therapist can help or if something more extensive, such as an x-ray is required. However, just come in and see us first before running to the ER or even your general physician at no charge, and we can see if your injury or pain is appropriate for treatment from a physical therapist.
To schedule an appointment at our Flowery Branch location, please call us at (770) 967-4377. If our Dacula location is more convenient, you can schedule an appointment by calling (470) 294-0052. We hope you will let our office help assess and treat any pain, injury, or other medical concern you may have
