The Truth Behind Common Physical Therapy (PT) Myths: What You Need to Know

Physical Therapy (PT) is commonly seen as a solution that most patients require after serious injury occurs. However, here at Powerback Rehab, we know firsthand that the use of PT goes well beyond the scope of simple injury recovery. Did you know? PT can help increase longevity, treat chronic illnesses, and reduce the need for pain medication, to name a few use cases.

Let’s deep dive and debunk Powerback Rehab’s top 5 Physical Therapy myths:

Myth 1: Only people in pain need Physical Therapy

Fact: While pain relief is a common reason people seek PT, it's far from the only one. At Powerback, our Physical Therapy programs support a wide range of needs, including:

Myth 2: Physical Therapy isn’t working unless it causes pain

Fact: The idea that “no pain, no gain” applies to PT is outdated—and often harmful. While some discomfort can occur early in treatment, Physical Therapy is designed to reduce pain, not create it. Progress may feel gradual, but your therapist will work with you to ensure your plan is safe, sustainable, and celebrates every milestone—big or small.

Myth 3: Any healthcare provider can provide Physical Therapy

Fact: Physical Therapy is a highly specialized field. Whether you’re working with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), or licensed PT, you’re benefiting from targeted education and hands-on training. Other providers may offer similar exercises, but only licensed PT professionals can deliver the full scope of evidence-based care that helps patients achieve optimal outcomes.

Myth 4: Physical Therapists will stop me from doing my favorite activities

Fact: At Powerback, we’re proud to encourage our patients to get back to doing what they love– whether that’s swimming, vacationing, or competing in a card game amongst peers– there’s no better treatment plan than one that supports and encourages you to live a fruitful and fulfilling life on your unique journey to recovery. Physical Therapists are incredibly skilled at finding ways to suggest accommodations that will help you get back to your favorite activities– the goal of Physical Therapy with Powerback is to help you regain, retain, and remain your independent self, after all!

Myth 5: I need a referral to see a Physical Therapist

Fact: Usually, this is not true– although some plans, like Medicare, do require a referral before covering treatment. With mobile outpatient Physical Therapy offerings from Powerback Rehabilitation to You, our patient navigator team can help direct you to receive the quality rehab care you deserve– whether that be at home, virtually, or in a community setting.

A female Powerback Rehab to You PT coaches her male patient through a weighted seated exercise.

Physical Therapy is an incredible treatment which increases the quality of life for patients and their families alike. Contact us today to see how Powerback can help you, or your center, achieve therapy success. Better Care Starts Here.

Need more reasons to love Physical Therapy? Get inspired with stories of strength and recovery from Powerback Rehab graduates.

Referenced articles: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/physical-therapy-myths-vs-reality