What are the Signs or Symptoms That You Should Be Referred to a Physical Therapist?

By Dr. Sokunthea "Sukie" Nau, DPT/Owner

Nau Physical Therapy and Wellness

8509 S US Highway 1

Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952

Phone: (772) 380-4549

Fax: (772) 210-8920

www.nauptwellness.com

What are the signs or symptoms that you may experience which will require you to speak with your primary care physician to see if you should be referred to a physical therapist.  

You don’t have to be recovering from a serious injury to benefit from physical therapy.    In fact, most physical therapy is often used for common chronic issues that include general wear and tear on your body. This also includes issues that are part of the normal aging process.

If you’re experiencing some of the following signs or symptoms, you might want to discuss them with your primary care physician to determine whether or not they should refer you to a physical therapist.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT YOU MAY NEED PHYSICAL THERAPY?

You may think of getting physical therapy only after a car accident, or after having an operation that you need to rehabilitate from.

But physical therapy is necessary if these symptoms persist:

1).  Sharp Pain

Centralized, sharp pain could be indicative of a stress factor or muscle strain. If you do not address the underlying injury behind the sharp, sudden pain, your pain may not subside. In order to get long-term relief, working with a physical therapist may be your best option.

2). Lingering Pain

If you’re experiencing pain after applying an ice pack and resting for a few days after a rigorous workout, it might be time to explore physical therapy.Talk to your doctor if you have consistent pain, and they may recommend you see a physical therapist.

3). Injury and Trauma

Sudden or traumatic injuries can benefit from physical therapy. Muscle tears and broken bones are two of the most common injuries that are treated by physical therapists. When you experience sudden trauma, it is important to take care of the problem at hand, so the issue doesn’t get significantly worse down the road.

4). Pain Medication is Ineffective

Your primary doctor may prescribe pain medication to manage pain and discomfort. Of course, if the discomfort continues even after using pain relief, it may be time to ask for a referral for physical therapy.

5).  Noticeable Changes

The truth of the matter is only you know your body.  If you notice any physical changes in your body, especially in areas experiencing pain, schedule an appointment to talk with your doctor. If you are experiencing sudden discomfort and localized pain, you may benefit from working  with a physical therapist.

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Sokunthea "Sukie" Nau, DPT/Owner

Nau Physical Therapy and Wellness

8509 S US Highway 1

Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952

Phone: (772) 380-4549

Fax: (772) 210-8920

www.nauptwellness.com

Dr. Nau has been practicing physical therapy since 2007 with a special interest in the biomechanics of human performance. He earned his Bachelor of Health Science with a concentration in Rehabilitative Services, Minor in Sociology and Minor in Education from the University of Florida in 2004. He later finished his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Saint Augustine with a concentration in Orthopedics in 2007. 

Nau Physical Therapy & Wellness specializes in orthopedics, neck pain and back pain as well as a pre-surgery check  to see if physical therapy will correct your situation without surgery. 

“Before your surgery, see us!”  Surgeons recommend surgery.  “To a hammer, the world is a nail!”-Suki Nau