Does physical therapy work? Evidence, success rates, and what to expect

If you’ve ever wondered, “does physical therapy work?” you’ve come to the right place. Some people hesitate before signing up for their first session, especially if they’re weighing it against medication, injections, or even surgery. 

But physical therapy is one of the most well-studied treatments for musculoskeletal pain. And Hinge Health data suggests that guided exercise-based care can make a meaningful difference: after 12 weeks, Hinge Health members reduced their pain by 68% on average.* Research consistently shows that physical therapy can reduce pain, improve mobility, restore function, and help many people avoid more invasive treatments.

"Physical therapy helps people build confidence in their bodies again," says Whitney Rogers, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at Hinge Health. "The goal isn't just to reduce pain. It's to help you get back to doing the activities that matter most to you."

Whether you're navigating chronic back pain, discomfort related to arthritis, a sports injury, or recovering from surgery, here's what the research says about physical therapy, what results you can realistically expect, and how to get the most out of treatment.

*After 12 weeks, Hinge Health members reduced their pain by 68% on average in a study of 10,264 chronic knee and back pain program participants. Includes all participants, not only those who completed the 12-week program. Bailey JF, et al. Digital Care for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: 10,000 Participant Longitudinal Cohort Study. J Med Internet Res 2020;22(5):e18250.

What the research says about physical therapy

Research shows that physical therapy can be highly effective for managing and treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, knee osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, and recovery after surgery. While it’s true that outcomes often vary depending on the condition and the person, studies consistently show meaningful improvements in pain, mobility, strength, and daily function.

For example, one study found that people with low back pain from sciatica who begin physical therapy early often experience greater reductions in pain and miss less work due to pain compared to those who delay treatment.

One reason physical therapy is so effective is that it addresses the factors that contribute to pain rather than masking or putting a Band-Aid on symptoms. "Physical therapy teaches people how to move confidently again," says Dr. Rogers. "You're building strength, mobility, and resilience, which helps create lasting changes."

Physical therapy can also play an important role before and after surgery.

MSK conditions physical therapy can help

Physical therapy can help with so much more than recovering from an injury. Whether you're dealing with everyday aches and pains, managing a chronic condition, recovering from surgery, or trying to prevent injury — physical therapy and exercise therapy can help you move more comfortably.

• Back pain. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physical therapy. "The main focus is simple, foundational exercises that help you build strength, improve mobility, and regain confidence in movement," says Dr. Rogers. Over time, many people find they can return to activities they had been avoiding, from exercising to traveling to simply getting through the day with less discomfort.

• Neck pain. Long hours spent looking at phones, computers, and other screens can contribute to neck pain and stiffness. Physical therapy can help improve your posture, strengthen the muscles that support your neck, and restore mobility in your upper back.

• Knee pain and osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a natural part of aging and it doesn’t always lead to symptoms. But in some people, the reduction in cartilage (the cushioning in your joints) leads to inflammation and discomfort that can make everyday activities feel challenging. But movement is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis. "The more we can get you moving, the more nourishing blood flows to your knees," says Dr. Rogers. Doing targeted strengthening exercises can strengthen supporting muscles, such as your quads (front of thigh muscles) which can ease pressure from the knee and make walking, climbing stairs, exercising, and other daily activities feel more manageable.

• Shoulder injuries. For some shoulder conditions, physical therapy may be a comparable option, depending on the diagnosis and the person. A physical therapist (PT) can guide you through progressive strengthening and mobility exercises that help restore function so you can reach, lift, carry, and perform daily tasks with greater ease.

• Post-surgical rehabilitation. Physical therapy plays an important role after procedures such as joint replacements, tendon repairs, and spinal surgeries. The goal isn't just healing — it's helping you safely regain strength, mobility, and independence.

• Plantar fasciitis. Heel pain can make every step feel frustrating. Physical therapy uses targeted stretching, strengthening, and movement strategies to reduce pain, improve foot function, and help you get back to walking, exercising, and staying active.

• Arthritis. Arthritis can cause stiffness, swelling, and joint pain, but staying active is one of the most effective ways to manage symptoms. A physical therapist can help you find movements that feel good, improve mobility, and support long-term joint health.

• Pelvic health conditions. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help with pelvic pain, incontinence, constipation, pregnancy-related symptoms, and postpartum recovery. Pelvic floor physical therapists use targeted exercises, education, and movement strategies to help improve function and quality of life.

The common thread across all of these conditions is movement. "Physical therapy helps people discover what they can do, not just what hurts," says Dr. Rogers. "When you gradually build strength and confidence, your world often starts to open back up again."

Physical therapy vs. surgery and medication

For many musculoskeletal conditions, physical therapy is considered a first-line treatment because it's effective, noninvasive, and carries fewer risks than surgery or long-term medication use.

But that doesn't mean surgery or medication never have a place. For some people, they're important parts of treatment. Physical therapy may provide outcomes comparable to surgery for some people and some common conditions — including knee osteoarthritis, certain rotator cuff injuries, meniscus tears, and some types of back pain.

Physical therapy also offers an alternative to relying on pain medication. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends exercise and physical therapy as preferred treatments for many chronic pain conditions before considering opioids for pain management.

It’s understandable to be concerned about whether physical therapy can make your pain worse — especially if certain movements are uncomfortable for you. But some soreness is normal when you're beginning any new exercise program. Physical therapy shouldn't cause sharp, severe, or progressively worsening pain. A physical therapist will adjust your program based on your symptoms, goals, and comfort level.

"The goal isn't to push through pain," says Dr. Rogers. "It's to find the right level of challenge so your body can adapt and get stronger over time."

What to expect from physical therapy

One of the biggest misconceptions about physical therapy is that you'll be handed a generic list of exercises and sent on your way. In reality, physical therapy is a personalized process designed to help you move with less pain and more confidence. While many people notice small improvements within the first few weeks, bigger (and lasting) changes in your pain, mobility, range of motion, and overall function often occur over several weeks of consistent effort.

Here's what you can expect:

• Assessment. Your first session is largely about listening and learning. Your physical therapist will ask about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle, and goals. They'll also assess how you move to identify factors that may be contributing to your pain or limitations.

• Personalized plan. Based on that assessment, your PT will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. "It's never a one-size-fits-all approach," says Dr. Rogers. "Your program is designed around your body, your goals, and what matters most to you."

• Exercises and education. Physical therapy combines targeted exercise therapy with education about pain, movement, and body mechanics. You'll learn practical strategies to help you move more comfortably and build confidence in your body's ability to recover. If you're attending in-person PT, your therapist may also use hands-on techniques, such as manual therapy.

• Progress over time. Recovery isn't always linear, but most people begin noticing improvements in how they move, feel, or function within a few weeks. Larger changes often happen over four to six weeks as strength, mobility, and confidence continue to build.

• Physical therapy can be done in person or virtually. All 50 states allow access to physical therapy without a physician referral, although state-specific treatment limits and insurance requirements may apply. Hinge Health members can connect with a physical therapist through telehealth and begin a personalized exercise program right away.

Tips to get the most out of physical therapy

Physical therapy works best when you're an active participant in the process. Small, consistent efforts between appointments can make a big difference in how quickly and effectively you improve. Consider these tips:

• Be consistent with your exercises. The exercises your PT prescribes are designed to help your body adapt and get stronger over time. "Doing your exercises at home three to five times a week is the sweet spot," says Dr. Rogers. Even short sessions can add up.

• Communicate openly with your PT. Let your therapist know what's helping, what's challenging, and how you're feeling between sessions. "The only way for us to truly help is to know what's too easy, what's too hard, and how your body is responding," says Dr. Rogers. Honest feedback allows your treatment plan to evolve with you.

• Track your progress. Improvements aren't always obvious day to day. Pay attention to changes in your pain levels, mobility, sleep, stress, and ability to do everyday activities. "All of these factors can influence pain," says Dr. Rogers.

• Be patient with the process. Recovery is rarely linear. Some days will feel better than others, and that’s okay — occasional flare-ups don't mean you're back at square one. "If you've been improving for six weeks and then have a painful day, it doesn't erase the progress you've made," says Dr. Rogers.

• Ask questions. A physical therapist wants you to understand your condition and treatment plan. The more you know about why you're doing certain exercises and how they help, the more confident you'll feel in your recovery.

PT tip: Focus on what you can do today

“One of the biggest misconceptions about pain is that you need to wait for it to disappear before you can start moving," says Dr. Rogers. "In reality, finding ways to move that feel safe and manageable is often part of the recovery process. Start where you are, build gradually, and let your confidence grow alongside your strength."

How Hinge Health can help you

If you have pelvic pain or symptoms that are affecting your quality of life, you can get the relief you've been looking for with Hinge Health’s online exercise therapy program.

The best part: You don’t have to leave your home because our program is digital. That means you can easily get the care you need through our app, when and where it works for you.

Through our program, you’ll have access to therapeutic exercises and stretches for your condition. Additionally, you’ll have a personal care team to guide, support, and tailor our program to you.

See if you qualify for Hinge Health and confirm free coverage through your employer or benefit plan here.

This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.

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