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112 verified Physical Therapists in Cary, NC
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 07/14/2026
Availability last updated 07/14/2026
Physical Therapist
5.00
·1 review
1.5 mi · 9529 Chapel Hill Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·9 reviews
3 mi · 100 Connemara Dr, Ste 110,, Cary, NC 27519
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Daniel completed his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Western Carolina University after getting a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration from the University of No...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·6 reviews
3 mi · 100 Connemara Dr, Ste 110,, Cary, NC 27519
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Brittany completed her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY in 2017. Previously, she completed her Bachelors of Science in Biology fr...Click to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·14 reviews
She's great! - Jan 27, 2026 by Zander M.Click to read more
1.5 mi · 9529 Chapel Hill Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 16
Physical Therapist
5.00
·3 reviews
3 mi · 100 Connemara Dr, Ste 110,, Cary, NC 27519
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Kate is a licensed physical therapist, recently relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina from Annapolis, Maryland. She specializes in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, with...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·1 review
1.5 mi · 280 Towerview Ct, Cary, NC 27513
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Dr. Kaylah Mack earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University, where she also served as Vice President of her cohort. A native of Dumfries,...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Physical Therapist
5.00
·12 reviews
1.5 mi · 9529 Chapel Hill Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Physical Therapist
5.00
·7 reviews
3.5 mi · 275 Convention Dr, Cary, NC 27511
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Andrew received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL, after completing his undergraduate studies in English Literature and Pol...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·25 reviews
5.5 mi · 1481 Kelly Rd, Apex, NC 27502
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · 18 years of experience · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
David is passionate about improving patient function and meeting their goals by utlilzing a combination of hands on treatment with therapeutic activities that he has gained over 16 years of experienceClick to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·30 reviews
1.5 mi · 9529 Chapel Hill Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Physical Therapist
5.00
·17 reviews
5.5 mi · 10236 Green Level Church Rd, Ste 102, Cary, NC 27519
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·23 reviews
5.5 mi · 10236 Green Level Church Rd, Ste 102, Cary, NC 27519
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Caroline Trezona, PT, DPT, ATC, serves as Clinic Director and Physical Therapist at the new Cary facility. “I am excited to be returning to my hometown of Cary, North Carolina,” said Caroline. “I look forward to helping my community return to living their best and most independent lives.” Ca...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Physical Therapist
5.00
·30 reviews
8 mi · 256 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs, NC 27540
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Physical Therapist
5.00
·7 reviews
Great first visit. Very nice and professional. Dr Corey was thorough and insightful with her investigation of my shoulder pain and beginning treatments. I am very pleased to be working with her and expect excellent results. Expect I will be posting 5 stars at the end of treatments also. - Feb 19, 2...Click to read more
8 mi · 256 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs, NC 27540
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Physical Therapist
5.00
·2 reviews
11.5 mi · 10113 Division Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Bobby Prengle, PT, DPT, is a MovementX physical therapist and performance coach based in Raleigh, NC, with over seven years of clinical experience and a decade in human performance training. Specializing in orthopedic physical therapy, sports rehab, and rotational athlete performance, Bobby work...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·28 reviews
9.5 mi · 9101 Leesville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Michelle grew up in Houston, TX, and completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a focus on...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Physical Therapist
5.00
·14 reviews
11.5 mi · 10113 Division Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Tyler Eubanks, PT, DPT, is a board-certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist and MovementX physical therapist with over a decade of experience helping people move better, recover from injury, and return to the activities they love without limitations. Based in Fuquay-Varina, NC, Tyler delivers 1...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·30 reviews
11.5 mi · 10113 Division Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Kristen Lattimore, PT, DPT, CSCS, is a highly experienced MovementX physical therapist serving the Raleigh, NC area. With over a decade of expertise, she helps patients of all ages recover from pain, injury, and surgery through personalized, one-on-one care. Dr. Lattimore specializes in combinin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·29 reviews
11.5 mi · 10113 Division Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
AT-HOME PT SESSIONS AVAILABLE! Dr. Romin Ghassemi, PT, DPT, is a dedicated Doctor of Physical Therapy who champions the cause of personalized and accessible care, tailored to fit the unique circumstances and goals of each individual. With a firm belief in the transformative power of movement, Romin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
9.5 mi · 7801 Alexander Promenade Place, Raleigh, NC 27617
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Chiropractor
4.88
·26 reviews
I had one doctor visit with Dr. Worsley and she made me feel comfortable. The staff was efficient and courteous. I was impressed with the extensive analysis procedure. - Jul 9, 2026 by Joseph G.Click to read more
3 mi · 1300 SE Maynard Rd, Ste 202, Cary, NC 27511
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Wykeita Worsley is a Doctor of Chiropractic who works with patients of all ages, from newborn to retired years. Dr. Worsley believes that providing personalized treatment and thoughtful education prepares her patients to heal and thrive so that they can take better care of themselves, their fami...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 30
Physical Therapist
9.5 mi · 7801 Alexander Promenade Place, Raleigh, NC 27617
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 11
Physical Therapist
5.00
·8 reviews
12.5 mi · 6150 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Physical Therapist
17.5 mi · 503 W Main St, Carrboro, NC 27510
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·2 reviews
15.5 mi · 81 Market Chapel Rd, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·7 reviews
12.5 mi · 6150 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jul 29
Physical Therapist
5.00
·14 reviews
Extremely professional and thorough . - Apr 20, 2026 by Charles C.Click to read more
13.5 mi · 4801 Hargrove Rd, Raleigh, NC 27616
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Carlie graduated from North Carolina State University in 2019 with her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and a minor in Sports Science. She then earned her Doctorate...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Chiropractor
5.00
·21 reviews
It was great - Got hand before appt - Got me right in and ont by LJClick to read more
12 mi · 1705 Pacific Dr, Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Our mission at Midtown Chiropractic Clinic is simply to serve you. We provide excellent chiropractic care to help our patients reach and exceed their health goals. We assess the patient as a whole. We want to address the main concern, but also lead you into a lifestyle of being pain free. We do all ...Click to read more
Next available: today
Physical Therapist
5.00
·14 reviews
It was great and helped alot - Jul 1, 2026 by Janet M.Click to read more
13.5 mi · 4801 Hargrove Rd, Raleigh, NC 27616
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Megan recently moved to the Raleigh area from Richmond, Virginia. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from Virginia Tech in 2006, and continued to Old Dominion University to...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Physical Therapist
5.00
·4 reviews
15 mi · 3103 Shannon Dr, Durham, NC 27707
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 16
Physical Therapist
5.00
·3 reviews
15 mi · 1400 Timber Dr E, Garner, NC 27529
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Danielle earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2012. Since then, she has built her career primarily in out...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 16
Physical Therapist
5.00
·19 reviews
18.5 mi · 105 Newsom St, Ste 104, Durham, NC 27704
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Bridget Ochuko, PT, DPT, MPH, is a MovementX physical therapist specializing in pelvic health, prenatal and postpartum care, and chronic pelvic pain in Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities. She provides one-on-one, fully personalized sessions in your home or via telehealth, making ca...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·8 reviews
17.5 mi · 503 W Main St, Carrboro, NC 27510
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 16
Physical Therapist
5.00
·6 reviews
15 mi · 1400 Timber Dr E, Garner, NC 27529
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Krista earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. During her undergraduate y...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 28
Internist (Virtual)
4.71
·51 reviews
Provider was kind, knowledgeable and professional. Excellent bedside manner. Quick and to the point service. - Feb 15, 2026 by Jeannie D.Click to read more
Raleigh, NC
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Self pay visits only Controlled substances are not prescribed Brief visits are $86 Annual Physical visits are $150Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·11 reviews
15.5 mi · 81 Market Chapel Rd, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.”Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Physical Therapist
5.00
·17 reviews
18.5 mi · 105 Newsom St, Ste 104, Durham, NC 27704
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Mattie Overton, PT, DPT, is a highly skilled and compassionate physical therapist with over 15 years of experience in helping patients achieve their health and wellness goals. Specializing in pelvic floor therapy, neurological conditions, and complex cases, Dr. Overton combines the latest resear...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 16
Physical Therapist
5.00
·30 reviews
17 mi · 1008-A Big Oak Ct, STE A, Knightdale, NC 27545
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Trevor received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2013 from Daemen College in Buffalo, NY after completing an undergraduate degree in Biology from SUNY Oswego in 2010. H...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Physical Therapist
5.00
·12 reviews
- May 26, 2026 by Krissy W.Click to read more
21 mi · 11694 US-70 BUS, Clayton, NC 27520
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of the initial booking in order to offer the appointment time to another patient.” Morgan is a skilled and compassionate Physical Therapist originally from Chapel Hill, NC. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmingt...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Physical Therapist
5.00
·14 reviews
Great, does really good job! by DMClick to read more
21 mi · 11618 Clayton Blvd, Ste 106, Clayton, NC 27520
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Tyler Smith, PT, DPT, CIDN brings a variety of experience to Carolina Spine and Disc Center. Tyler grew up in Marietta, Ohio then received an undergraduate degree of Pre-Physical Therapy at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. Thereafter, he earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Cam...Click to read more
Next available: today
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Physical Therapist in Cary?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Physical Therapist in Cary, book an appointment, and see the Physical Therapist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Physical Therapists in Cary who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Cary Physical Therapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Cary Physical Therapist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Physical Therapist in Cary?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Physical Therapists in Cary and book appointments instantly. You can search for Cary Physical Therapists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Physical Therapist in Cary?

When you search for Cary Physical Therapists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Physical Therapists in Cary who match your preferences.


How can I find a Cary Physical Therapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Cary Physical Therapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Physical Therapist in Cary?

You can use Zocdoc to find Physical Therapists in Cary who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Physical Therapist online in Cary?

Physical Therapists in Cary on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Physical Therapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Physical Therapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Physical Therapists in Cary who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Physical Therapist in Cary who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Physical Therapist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Physical Therapist in Cary who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Physical Therapists in Cary. Many Physical Therapists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a physical therapist?

Physical therapists are movement specialists who use exercise, hands-on care, and education to improve quality of life. They evaluate and treat illnesses or injuries to the:


  • musculoskeletal system (bones and muscles)
  • neurological systems (brain)
  • cardiopulmonary systems (heart and lungs)
  • integumentary system (skin)


Some people may also visit a physical therapist for advice on preventing future movement-related problems. Physical therapists are trained to help people at different life stages, possibly at hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, or clinics. 


To qualify as a physical therapist in the United States, one must complete a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree from a program authorized by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. The program content includes but is not limited to biology, anatomy, and physiology. Completing a DPT program may take around three years.


After passing a state licensing exam, physical therapists can also choose to enroll in a clinical residency or fellowship program. These programs allow licensed physical therapists to gain experience in a focused practice area such as:


  • Cardiovascular (heart) and pulmonology (lungs)
  • Geriatrics (elderly health)
  • Neurology (brain health)
  • Oncology (Cancer)
  • Orthopedics (bone, joint, and spinal issues)
  • Pediatrics (children's health)
  • Sports


Physical therapists can become board-certified specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. A board certification equips them with a broad professional education and practice to develop knowledge and skills in a particular area. However, they are not required to be certified to practice. 


What are physical therapists trained to do?

Physical therapists perform examinations and devise treatment plans to improve movement, reduce or manage pain, and prevent disability. They use a combination of hands-on techniques like stretches, exercises, or activities you perform with their supervision. Some physical therapy techniques are:


  • Stretching
  • Strength training
  • Massage


Apart from physical manipulation, physical therapy treatment may also involve:


  • Heat and cold therapy: To relieve an aching pain from muscle or joint damage
  • Iontophoresis: Using an electrical current to deliver medications such as topical steroids and decrease inflammation
  • Light therapy: Using special lasers and lights to treat certain medical conditions
  • Electrical stimulation (e-stim): 1. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation reduces pain. 2. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation improves muscular engagement


What are the main advantages of physical therapy?

The following are some primary benefits of seeking physical therapy: 


  • Reducing and eliminating pain: If you experience severe pain in your muscles, joints, or tendons, you should visit a physical therapist near you. Therapeutic exercises and guided relaxation techniques like soft tissue massage, taping, or electric stimulation can help eliminate and relieve pain and also help prevent pain relapses.


  • Faster surgery recovery: Most physical therapists use manual treatments or techniques like ultrasound to reduce pain, eliminating the need for surgery. However, if the pain persists for a prolonged time, your doctor might recommend surgery. In this case, you may benefit from physical therapy — pre or post-surgery — making the recovery process faster and more robust.


  • Improving mobility: Your physical therapist might help you with standing, walking, or moving - regardless of age or medical condition. Muscle relaxation techniques like stretching and strengthening exercises can restore your mobility. Using crutches, a cane, or other assistive devices can also be helpful. 


  • Recovery from stroke: A stroke can result in dire symptoms like sudden numbness, weakness in the face and arm, confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty comprehending sentences. Your ability to move quickly may also be adversely affected. Physical therapy can strengthen your muscles and restore the ability to use your body parts to the maximum potential. It can assist you in becoming more independent, and regular intervention can help you return to several activities you previously enjoyed.


  • Recovery from sports injury: Physical therapists can diagnose and treat various conditions that might affect athletes or physically active people. They understand how engaging in sports can increase the risk of injuries in certain body parts. Hence, they can design a prevention plan to ensure an athlete's safety and performance.


When should you see a physical therapist?

Physical therapy can benefit anyone with an illness or injury, limiting physical functional ability. You may need physical therapy to treat conditions such as:


  • Cardiopulmonary conditions: Cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, post-myocardial infarction heart failure
  • Conditions that affect the hand: Arthritis, Carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger
  • Female health and pelvic floor dysfunction: Lymphedema, urinary incontinence
  • Musculoskeletal conditions: Back pain, rotator cuff tears, temporomandibular joint disorders
  • Neurological conditions: Stroke, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson's disease
  • Pediatric conditions: Cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy
  • Skin injuries or conditions: Burns, diabetic ulcers, wound care
  • Sports-related injuries: Concussion, tennis elbow


Physical therapists can provide supplementary treatment for various conditions depending on the specialty. Seeking care from a physical therapist near you can help you effectively manage pain and reduce the need for opioids and surgery. Physical therapy improves balance, mobility, and movement. It can help prevent falls and manage age-related medical problems such as Parkinson's disease. 


What to expect from your first appointment with a physical therapist?

A physical therapist usually performs a physical examination to evaluate movement, flexibility, muscle, and joint motion. They would also ask you questions regarding your health history. This would give them a better understanding of your presenting concern.


Based on your physical exam and your medical history, the physical therapist would give you a clinical diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan based on the expected outcomes. This plan may include short-term and long-term goals. Your physical therapist may use a combination of exercises, stretches, and other hands-on techniques in your treatment. They may also use therapeutic aids like electrical stimulation machines or kinesthetic tape. 


The duration of treatment would depend on the condition and expected outcomes. Your physical therapist will assist you in using supportive devices like a crutch or cane. They will also recommend self-management tips such as exercises you can do at home. The physical therapist will create and execute discharge plans at the right time. You may also need approval before resuming certain activities. 


Finding a qualified physical therapist near you in Cary, North Carolina

Doctors often recommend physical therapy for those with movement problems due to injury, illness, disease, or disability. If you are looking for a physical therapist near you, you should try Zocdoc.


Log on to www.zocdoc.com and enter keywords such as "Physical therapist" and "Cary" to find the best healthcare providers near you. Each profile on Zocdoc includes the specialist's education and training, languages they speak, and hospital affiliations. You can filter the results by gender, language, distance, or other essential factors. 


Zocdoc provides user-verified reviews and ratings for every physical therapist on the platform. You can also find in-network specialists that accept your healthcare insurance. Once you find a physical therapist near you that suits your preferences, book an in-person or online appointment for free. 


All bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and free. 


Statistics on physical therapy in North Carolina 

Pain can be a distressing feeling caused by multiple possible health conditions. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 58.9% of adults with some form of pain in 2019. Approximately 39% of adults reported having back pain, 36.5% with lower limb pain, and 30.7% with upper limb pain. According to the United Health Foundation, in 2021, about 27.3% of adults in North Carolina had some form of arthritis.


Pain from such medical conditions can interfere with a person's functioning and quality of life. This leads to dependence on opioids, a class of drugs that include pain relievers and illicit drugs. According to North Carolina Opioid Settlements, about 14 out of 100 people were prescribed opioids in 2020, representing over 1,432,670 people with an opioid prescription. Around 143 out of 100,000 people visited the emergency department due to an overdose in 2020. In total, there were about 14,947 ED visits in that year. 


As per the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services report, there were more than 28,000 drug overdose deaths between 2000 and 2020. It was also found that an average of nine adults died from a drug overdose each day in 2020. This state had a 40% increase in drug overdose deaths from the previous year. 


Seeking treatment from specialties such as physical therapy can help manage pain and reduce the increasing dependence on opioids. The American Physical Therapy Association reported that in 2019, there were about 6,310 employed physical therapists in North Carolina. This means the state has approximately 55 licensed physical therapists per 100,000 people.


Sources

American Physical Therapy Association[1]

American Physical Therapy Association[2]

Cleveland Clinic

MedicalNewsToday

WebMD

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services[1]

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services[2]

North Carolina Opioid Settlements

America's Health Rankings

Houston Methodist

National Council on Aging


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