Do I Really Need Physical Therapy? Here's What to Know Before You Skip It

You twisted your ankle, tweaked your back, or had surgery—and now someone’s telling you to go to physical therapy (PT). Maybe you're wondering: 

"Can’t I just rest and heal on my own?" 
"Is PT really necessary?" 
"What if I just watch a few YouTube stretches?" 

Totally fair questions. But before you write it off, let’s talk about what physical therapy actually does—and why skipping it could cost you more than just time. 

What Does Physical Therapy Actually Do? 

Physical therapy is more than just exercises and stretches. It's a science-backed approach to: 

• Reduce pain without medication 

• Restore strength, flexibility, and balance 

• Improve mobility and posture 

• Prevent future injuries or complications 

• Optimize recovery after surgery or injury 

In short, PT doesn’t just help you heal—it helps you heal right. 

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), “physical therapists help people improve movement and manage pain—often avoiding surgery and reducing the need for long-term prescription medications.” 
— APTA 

What Happens When You Don’t Do PT? 

Skipping physical therapy can lead to: 

• Delayed healing 

• Muscle weakness and stiffness 

• Chronic pain 

• Poor movement patterns that lead to reinjury 

• Limited range of motion, making everyday tasks harder 

A 2020 study published in The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that patients who delayed starting PT for low back pain had higher healthcare costs and worse outcomes long-term. (Fritz et al., 2020) 

Common Myths About PT 

“I can just do stretches at home.” 
Home exercise is great—but without proper evaluation, you might do the wrong exercises or do them incorrectly, which can cause setbacks. 

“I’m not an athlete. I don’t need PT.” 
PT is for everyone—whether you're 25 or 75, recovering from a surgery or dealing with everyday joint pain. 

“Pain means I should rest more.” 
Actually, too much rest can lead to muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and even more pain. PT helps you move safely through recovery. 

When You Should Definitely Consider PT 

You don’t always need a referral to see a physical therapist (check your local laws), but here are signs it’s time to book an appointment: 

• Pain lasting longer than 1–2 weeks 

• Recurring injuries or nagging discomfort 

• Recovering from surgery 

• Difficulty walking, bending, lifting, or balancing 

• Poor posture or movement habits 

• Wanting to return to sports or physical activities safely 

Proactive Care Is Powerful Care 

Think of physical therapy as an investment in your body—not just for today, but for future you. PT can help you: 

• Move better 

• Hurt less 

• Recover faster 

• Avoid surgery and long-term meds 

“If you put off seeing a physical therapist until you're in pain, you're doing it wrong.” — GQ Health 

Bottom Line 

If you’ve been told you need PT, there’s probably a good reason. It’s not about just “doing exercises”—it’s about restoring your body to function at its best. Skipping it might save you time now, but it could cost you down the road. 

So ask yourself not, “Do I really need PT?” 
But instead: “How much better could I feel with it?” 

If you are unsure whether or not physical therapy will be beneficial for you, contact our office to talk with one of our skilled physical therapists about your condition!

References: 

• Fritz, J.M., et al. (2020). “Early Physical Therapy vs Usual Care in Patients With Recent-Onset Low Back Pain.” JOSPT. 

• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): choosept.com 

• “If You Put Off Seeing a Physical Therapist Until You're in Pain, You're Doing It Wrong.” GQ Health