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.

Foot and ankle pain can come from plantar fascia irritation, joint stiffness, ligament sprains, tendon issues (like Achilles or peroneal tendinopathy), nerve irritation, or mobility restrictions that change the way your foot loads. A physical therapist’s job is to identify your specific driver so treatment can be targeted and effective.

Foot and ankle pain is more serious if you experience swelling that doesn’t improve, sharp catching, numbness or tingling, inability to bear full weight, persistent bruising, or symptoms that worsen quickly. Even mild pain should be evaluated early to prevent chronic mobility issues.

Gentle movement is typically better than complete rest. Light mobility helps reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and calm irritated tissues. A physical therapist will guide you on safe weight-bearing, stretching, and strengthening while helping you avoid motions that overload the foot or ankle.

Yes. Chronic foot and ankle pain often persists because underlying issues—poor foot mechanics, calf stiffness, balance deficits, or weakness—were never corrected. Physical therapy addresses these root causes so even long-standing pain can improve.

Absolutely. Foot and ankle symptoms can often involve nerve compression, referred pain, or altered gait mechanics. Physical therapy restores mobility, reduces nerve tension, improves strength, and helps you avoid flare-ups during walking or exercise.

Untreated foot and ankle pain can lead to chronic stiffness, recurring sprains, worsening tendon irritation, reduced walking tolerance, and long-term compensations in the knees, hips, and low back. Early treatment restores healthy mechanics and prevents future problems.