In most cases, no. Most states allows for "Direct Access," meaning you can come directly to a physical therapist for an evaluation and treatment without seeing a doctor first. This gets you on the road to recovery faster. However, if you are using insurance there are some specific plans that do have requirements regarding signatures or referrals. If your insurance has specific requirements, we will let you know before your first visit.  (Medicare does NOT require a referral to get started with therapy).

During your first visit, you'll undergo a comprehensive evaluation. We'll discuss your medical history, assess your current condition, and perform a physical examination. This helps us understand your specific needs and goals. Based on this information, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique situation. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions and discuss any concerns you might have about your treatment.

Yes. When appropriate, we use manual therapy techniques like joint mobilization, soft-tissue work, dry needling, and directional loading strategies. These help decrease pain quickly so you can move more easily and progress into strengthening.

In many cases, yes. Most pain improves with the right combination of movement correction, strength training, and hands-on care. We’ll also tell you honestly if imaging or a surgical consult is appropriate.

Yes. One of our main goals is education. You’ll understand exactly what is causing your pain, why it’s happening, and how to fix it. Knowing the root cause reduces fear and speeds up recovery.

If pain limits your workouts, daily activities, sleep, or quality of life—even slightly—PT is the right next step. A short evaluation can determine exactly what’s going on and what your fastest path forward looks like.

Neck pain can come from several sources including joint irritation, disc issues, muscle strain, poor posture, nerve irritation (like cervical radiculopathy), whiplash, or movement dysfunction. A physical therapist’s job is to identify your specific driver so treatment can be targeted and effective.

Neck pain is more serious if you experience radiating pain into the shoulder or arm, numbness or tingling, weakness, severe headaches, dizziness, difficulty turning your head, or symptoms that worsen quickly. Even mild symptoms deserve early evaluation to prevent chronic irritation.

Gentle movement is usually better than complete rest. Staying active helps decrease stiffness, improve blood flow, and reduce muscle guarding. Your physical therapist will show you safe mobility and postural exercises—and help you avoid positions that overload the neck.

Yes. Chronic neck pain often persists because underlying issues such as posture habits, mobility restrictions, muscle imbalance, or nerve irritation were never addressed. Physical therapy focuses on correcting these root causes so even long-standing neck pain can improve.