Apr 16, 2025

What to Do When You Can’t Get a Physical Therapy Appointment for Weeks

Injured Runner in Need of Physical Therapy
Injured Runner in Need of Physical Therapy

If you've ever faced an injury mid-training cycle, you know the frustration of calling your local clinic and hearing, “Our next appointment is six weeks out—and we’ll need your doctor's referral.” Between scheduling delays, extra doctor visits, referral paperwork, and unexpected co-pays, your recovery timeline becomes even more complicated. And concierge PT? Rates of $250/hour or more put quality care out of reach for most athletes.

But you have options. Here’s how you can get timely, expert physical therapy care without the wait—or the cost.

Why Traditional Physical Therapy Wait Times Hurt Athletes

When you’re injured, every day matters. The quicker you can see a qualified physical therapist, the faster you’re likely to recover and return to your sport. Traditional physical therapy clinics often require:

  • A physician's referral, adding more appointments and co-pays.

  • Long wait times—often weeks or months.

  • Limited availability for busy schedules, adding stress to an already challenging situation.

By the time you finally get treatment, your injury may have worsened, significantly extending your recovery period.

How to Get Timely Physical Therapy Care Without the Hassle

Here’s what you can do if you’re stuck waiting weeks for a traditional PT appointment:

1. Find a Provider Offering Same-Week Appointments

Look for modern, athlete-focused physical therapy providers like Poppy. Poppy is specifically designed for Everyday Athletes who can’t afford delays in their training or recovery. We offer same-week—and often same-day—appointments so you can start your recovery immediately.

2. Skip the Doctor Referral

In-network clinics typically require referrals, adding days or weeks to your wait. Membership-based physical therapy, like the model at Poppy, eliminates this step, allowing you immediate direct access to professional care—without extra appointments or co-pays.

3. Make Physical Therapy Part of Your Routine

You don't have to wait for an injury to prioritize physical therapy. With Poppy, you can book sessions regularly to integrate injury prevention, mobility, and strength training into your fitness routine—without costly commitments or delays. Unlike concierge PTs charging $250/hour or more, Poppy delivers elite, athlete-focused care at accessible prices. Regular check-ins with our specialized PTs ensure you’re consistently training smarter, avoiding setbacks, and maintaining peak performance year-round.

Why Athletes Choose Poppy for Immediate Care

Poppy was created precisely because traditional physical therapy wasn’t working for athletes who need quick, convenient access to specialized care. Here's how Poppy is redefining physical therapy:

  • Rapid Access: No waiting weeks or needing doctor's referrals—get seen within days.

  • Expert Care: Therapists specialized in injury prevention, performance optimization, strength and mobility training, and gait analysis.

  • Flexible Options: Choose in-person sessions or hybrid care to fit your schedule.

  • Cost-Effective: Membership pricing far below typical concierge rates, giving you elite-level PT at a fraction of the price.

Don’t let injuries sideline your training or goals. You deserve better.

Ready for Elite Care Without the Wait?

Avoid frustrating delays and unnecessary costs. Take control of your recovery today with elite, accessible care from Poppy.

Book Your First Session with Poppy Now


Connect with Poppy

Follow Poppy on Instagram for updates, injury prevention, and performance tips.

Elite Care for Everyday Athletes. TM

hello@joinpoppy.co

+1 415 429 8861

Disclaimer: Poppy provides administrative and management services to independently licensed physical therapists (‘Poppy Providers’). All clinical services are provided solely by these licensed therapists.

© 2025 Poppy Performance

Elite Care for Everyday Athletes. TM

hello@joinpoppy.co

+1 415 429 8861

Disclaimer: Poppy provides administrative and management services to independently licensed physical therapists (‘Poppy Providers’). All clinical services are provided solely by these licensed therapists.

© 2025 Poppy Performance

Elite Care for Everyday Athletes. TM

hello@joinpoppy.co

+1 415 429 8861

Disclaimer: Poppy provides administrative and management services to independently licensed physical therapists (‘Poppy Providers’). All clinical services are provided solely by these licensed therapists.

© 2025 Poppy Performance