Physical, occupational and speech therapy for your recovery

Physical medicine and rehabilitation, also known as physiatry, is a medical specialty focused on restoring function for people with physical impairments or disabilities. 

Doctors who diagnose and treat conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons are known as physiatrists.

Physiatrists often work closely with physical, occupational and speech therapists to create rehabilitation plans tailored to a patient’s needs to help them regain independence and improve their quality of life.

While therapists provide hands-on treatment and exercises, physiatrists oversee the overall rehab strategy, coordinate care, prescribe therapies and medications, manage pain and administer injections to treat joint, muscle or nerve-related conditions.

While physical therapists work on restoring movement, physiatry is a medical specialty practiced by MDs (Doctors of Medicine) or DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) and focuses on: 

• Diagnosing and managing physical impairments and disabilities
• Overseeing rehabilitation plans, prescribing therapies and medications, and sometimes performing injections
• Working closely with therapists, including physiotherapists, to coordinate care

Physical therapists are considered doctors if they hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This is a clinical degree earned after completing a graduate program typically lasting three years. Those with a DPT are qualified to use the title “Doctor.”

However:

• A DPT is not the same as a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO).
• Physical therapists do not prescribe medications or perform surgery.
• Their expertise lies in movement, rehabilitation and pain management through noninvasive techniques.

So, while many physical therapists are considered doctors in their field, they are not physicians.  

It's always best to check with your primary care doctor to determine if physical therapy treatment is needed. 

In many states, you don’t need a referral for physical therapy thanks to Direct Access laws, which let you get an evaluation and start treatment without seeing a doctor first. This is especially helpful for issues like joint pain, muscle stiffness or injury recovery.

However, some insurance plans — such as Medicare, Medicaid or workers’ compensation — may still require a physician’s referral or prior authorization. Check with your insurance provider or the physical therapy clinic to confirm what’s needed for your specific coverage.

Many clinics also offer support to help you navigate these requirements and get started smoothly.  

The duration of physical therapy depends on the condition being treated, its severity and how consistently the patient follows the treatment plan.

Some general guidelines are:

• Minor injuries like sprains and strains: 2–6 weeks
• Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle or tendon issues: 6–8 weeks
• Post-surgical rehabilitation: 6 weeks to several months
• Fractures: 6–8 weeks for bone healing, plus additional therapy time
• Chronic conditions: Gradual improvement over several months

Physical therapy sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment plan and your individual needs.

Your therapist will adjust the frequency and length of sessions based on your progress and goals. Most people attend therapy 1–3 times a week.

Most patients notice improvements — like reduced pain and better mobility — within the first few weeks of therapy.  

Yes, physical therapy can significantly help with arthritis. Here are some benefits:

• Enhanced balance and coordination
• Greater independence
• Improved joint mobility
• Reduced pain and stiffness
• Strengthened muscles around joints
• May reduce need for medications or surgery  

Occupational therapy:

Occupational therapists (OTs) are licensed professionals who develop personalized treatment plans to improve independence and quality of life.

OTs work with people recovering from injury, living with disabilities or experiencing developmental or mental health challenges. Treatment can include therapeutic exercises, adaptive techniques, assistive devices and environmental modifications. 

Occupational medicine:

Occupational medicine is a medical specialty focused on work-related health issues. It is practiced by physicians who diagnose and treat workplace injuries and illnesses. 

Occupational medicine Involves evaluating fitness for duty and managing return-to-work plans. It addresses workplace safety, ergonomics and regulatory compliance and may include preventive care, screenings and health education for employees.

A speech-language pathologist (SLP), often called a speech pathologist, is a licensed health care professional who provides speech therapy.

Speech pathologists help patients improve their ability to communicate effectively and safely eat and drink.

This form of care plays a vital role in helping individuals regain independence and confidence in everyday interactions.