You tweaked your back lifting groceries. Your knee’s been aching since that weekend hike. Or maybe your shoulder’s been acting up for weeks, but you keep telling yourself it’ll get better on its own.
It’s not always easy to know when pain is something that will pass or when it’s time to take action. That’s where physical therapy (PT) can make a big difference. And thanks to Connect Care Physical Therapy from Intermountain Health, you don’t even have to leave your home to get the help you need.
Let’s dive into the signs that it might be time for physical therapy — and how virtual visits through Connect Care Physical Therapy makes it easier than ever to take the first step.
Listen to your body: Six signs it might be time for physical therapy
Pain is your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right.” But it can be tricky to know when it’s serious enough to get help from a medical professional.
Here are some common signs that it’s worth checking in with a physical therapist:
One: Pain that lingers
If you’re still in pain after a week or two of the initial onset, or if the pain keeps flaring up, it could indicate something that needs more than rest and ice. PT can help get to the root of the issue and create a plan for immediate and long-term relief.
Two: Limited range of motion
If it’s harder to reach overhead, bend your knee, or turn your neck than it used to be, you might be dealing with inflammation, stiffness, or a muscle imbalance – all of which physical therapy can help improve.
Three: Instability or weakness
A joint, like your ankle or knee, which feels wobbly or like it might give out can often be stabilized with targeted exercises. A physical therapist can guide you on what’s safe to do (or what to avoid) during the healing process.
Four: Everyday tasks are harder
If lifting, walking, climbing stairs, or even sleeping have become uncomfortable, PT can help restore mobility and strength so you can get back to your daily life without the extra effort or pain.
Five: A recent or recurring injury
New injuries need proper healing, and old ones that keep coming back might not have fully recovered the first time. Either way, PT can support the healing process and help prevent re-injury.
Six: Balance or posture issues
Feeling unsteady or noticing changes in posture? A physical therapist can assess what’s contributing to those issues and offer strategies to help you move with more control and confidence.
Quick tip: If you’re asking yourself, “Should I wait this out or talk to someone?” – that’s reason enough to schedule a visit.
What virtual PT looks like and why it works
A lot of people picture physical therapy happening in a clinic with machines or hands-on support. But many common issues can be safely and effectively treated from home with the guidance of a licensed physical therapist.
Here’s how a Connect Care Physical Therapy visit works:
- You meet with a board-certified physical therapist over secure video on your phone or computer
- They’ll ask about your symptoms, health history, and how pain is affecting your day-to-day life
- You may be asked to do a few simple movements so they can assess your mobility, flexibility, and strength
- You’ll receive a customized care plan with exercises and advice you can follow from the comfort of your own home
The session is focused on you — your pain, your goals, and your pace. If the PT feels you need additional in-person care, they’ll refer you to the right follow-up.
Connect Care Physical Therapy is designed for real life
Between work, family, and other responsibilities, it’s easy to put off taking care of yourself. That’s exactly why Intermountain Health designed this service to be flexible and easy to access.
“Connect Care focuses on providing low-cost, high-quality, and convenient care,” says Tim Lovell, director of operations for Intermountain Connect Care. “Thanks to Select Health and Intermountain, these visits are available at no cost for many members.”
Here's what makes it simple:
- Video visits from anywhere: No travel, no waiting rooms
- Same-day access: Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Just $79 per visit: Or free with Select Health (check your plan)
- Expert guidance + home exercise plan: Imagine doing your exercises while sitting on the couch.
- Follow-up support: Including referrals if in-person care is needed
Physical therapy can help with:
- Back and neck pain
- Muscle strains and soreness
- Joint pain (hip, knee, shoulder, elbow)
- Ankle sprains and heel pain
- Sports injuries
- Posture and movement issues
- Balance concerns
…and more
Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable
Many people delay physical therapy because they think the pain will eventually go away on its own or it’s not “serious enough.” But getting care earlier often means a shorter recovery and fewer long-term issues.
Even one virtual session can help:
- Ease pain and reduce inflammation
- Improve movement and strength
- Preventing future injuries
- Offer peace of mind with expert advice
And unlike many traditional PT setups, you don’t need a referral to get started. Just open the app and connect with a licensed provider in minutes.
How to start a visit
Getting started is easy. Here’s how:
- Open the Intermountain Health App
- Select Virtual Visit
- Start a Connect Care Urgent Care visit
- After selecting your current location, choose the Connect Care Physical therapy practice, and select a provider.
No paperwork, no waitlists – just care that fits your life.
It’s okay to ask for help
Daily pain shouldn’t be your new normal. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, struggling with ongoing soreness, or just want to move more freely again, physical therapy can help you get there.
And now, it’s easier than ever to get started.
Start your Connect Care Physical Therapy visit today