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What is the difference between a DO and a physical therapist or PT?

April 26, 2017difference physical pt therapist

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What is the difference between a DO and a physical therapist or PT?

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Physical therapists have a limited license and must have a physician’s (DO/MD) prescription to see a patient in order to get reimbursed by an insurance carrier. In some settings they can function autonomously and have the legal ability to see patients independent of a medical referral. Technically they are not licensed to make a formal medical diagnosis. They have special training in exercise, physical rehabilitation, and therapeutic methods of treating the musculoskeletal system. They frequently use additional modalities such as ultrasound, cold/heat, diathermy, and electro-stimulation. Some physical therapists have received additional manual therapy training.