Orthopedic Physical Therapy

What does a orthopedic physical therapist do?

Orthopedic physical therapists treat musculoskeletal injuries and post-surgical recovery — joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

About this specialty in NPPES

NPPES publishes a taxonomy code that identifies a provider's declared specialty. The Orthopedic specialty corresponds to taxonomy code 2251X0800X.

Many PTs practice orthopedic or general physical therapy under the generic taxonomy code 225100000X without a specialty designation. Those PTs are not listed under a specialty page. When choosing a PT for a specific need, confirm their practice areas directly with the provider or their clinic.

How to verify credentials

• Check that their NPPES taxonomy code matches 2251X0800X
• Verify their license is active with the state PT board
• Confirm graduation from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program
• Ask the provider directly about their clinical experience with the specific condition or population