Ask a PT Response: "Depending on the state or type of insurance a patient posesses, the paitent may require a referral from a physician prior to a consultation with a PT. The patient will set up an appointment with a PT. The PT will conduct a subjective interview to obtain history, symptomology, past medical history. Various objective tests can be conducted such as postural analysis, functional analysis, range of motion measurements, strength testing, joint mobility assessment, palpation, special tests etc.. An assessment will be made from the findings and a plan of care developed. Follow up sessions can than be scheduled based on the PT's plan of care. I hope this helps."