What Kind of Physical Therapist Do I Need?

Although all physical therapists are prepared through education and experience to treat a variety of conditions or injuries, you may want to consider:

A) A physical therapist who is experienced in treating people with orthopedic (musculoskeletal) problems.

B) A physical therapist who is a board-certified clinical specialist or who has completed a residency or fellowship in orthopedic physical therapy and has advanced knowledge, experience, and skills that may apply to your condition.

C) You can find physical therapists with these and other credentials by using the online tool built by the American Physical Therapy Association to help you search for physical therapists with specific clinical expertise in your geographic area.

General tips when you're looking for a physical therapist:

1) Get recommendations from family and friends or from other health care providers.

2) When you contact a physical therapy clinic for an appointment, ask about the physical therapist's experience in helping people with ACL tears.

3) During your first visit with the physical therapist, be prepared to describe your symptoms in as much detail as possible, and say what makes your symptoms worse.