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> If something hurts then why should the default reaction be to see a doctor? If something hurts the default is, and should be, consulting a primary care physi
by void_mint 5y ago
> If something hurts then why should the default reaction be to see a doctor?
If something hurts the default is, and should be, consulting a primary care physician, who should then forward your issue to a specialist. PTs are less trained and less useful than MDs, so their scope should be more limited (and should only be consulted for appropriate ailments).
- Jtsummers 5y agoAn issue with PTs is that they don't (in the US) have the full diagnostic capability of an MD. Particularly when the issue centers around the neck and spine, going to an MD first and then getting a referral to PT is very important. At that point the PT can be informed of the actual physical issue and develop a proper course of treatment. Now, if an issue is chronic (like my shoulder problems), there's not much point in going to the MD except to get a "Yep, it's your shoulder again, still don't want opioids? Ok, here's the referral for 10-20 PT sessions so you can get it covered by BCBS."