Should I See a Doctor or Physiotherapist for My Injury?

This is often the first question people ask themselves when they suffer from chronic pain or have an acute injury. The truth is, you cannot go wrong visiting either a doctor or physiotherapist. The main difference is the experiences you have during the assessment and treatments provided by a physiotherapist and the assessment and advice of a doctor.

Here is a simple guideline that may help you make your decision.
You should see a physiotherapist if:

• You have chronic pain.
• You want to diagnose an injury - physiotherapists have the capability to diagnose your injury or pain without any previous input or referrals from your doctor.
• You want an exercise plan - whether to strength injuries or learn how to be more physically active, physiotherapists will provide a personalized exercise regimine that fits your needs.
• You want manual therapy, ultrasound, laser, acupuncture, and other hands-on treatment.
• You want to increase mobility - whether it's your shoulder, knee or back, if you feel restricted from normal range of motions, physiotherapists will treat this.
• You just had surgery, injured yourself at home or during physical activity, were in a car accident or had a workplace injury - while physiotherapy can be preventative, it is also a key solution to an acute injury.

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You should see your doctor if:

• You want scans - doctors provide forms for X-rays, CT and MRI scans to diagnose an injury.
• You want a referral - physiotherapy does not require a referral, however some extended health insurance does and your doctor  most likely knows the best physiotherapists in your area.
• You want prescription pain medication - physiotherapists can provide you with different supportive equipment, such as braces, but do not have the capability to prescribe medication.