Physical therapists in 19 US cities

What physical therapists commonly treat

Cleveland Clinic says people usually need physical therapy to manage symptoms of a health condition, like pain and stiffness in a specific body part, and that it's also common while rehabbing after an injury or surgery. It says that, like with any physical activity, you'll have a small injury risk, including aggravating an existing injury. For low back pain, the AAOS says exercising to restore motion and strength to the lower back can be very helpful in relieving pain.

How to choose a physical therapist

• Referral rules vary by state. APTA, the American Physical Therapy Association, says on its direct access advocacy page that as of July 1, 2025, all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands have either provisional or unrestricted direct access to physical therapist services for evaluation and treatment. It says that even though patients may go directly to a physical therapist without a referral, some rules tied to treatment without one still apply in a number of states.
• How long it takes varies. Cleveland Clinic says some people need only a few weeks of physical therapy for a short-term issue, while others need it for months or years to manage a chronic condition. It says you might feel it isn't working right away, but to stick with it.
• Cleveland Clinic says to tell your physical therapist if any part of your therapy seems too hard or too easy, and to visit a healthcare provider if you notice new or worsening symptoms.
• Every listing here carries the provider's federal NPI number.
• Listings here come from the federal NPI registry, and the address and phone number may not be current.