Negative patient perspectives on PT recommendations can influence their adoption because of specific preferences, values, and past experiences. This includes a preference for non-PT treatments, a personal value for immediate relief rather than gradual change, or a belief that PT is ineffective due to prior negative outcomes. Ultimately, these individual factors may lead the patient to perceive the PT plan as inappropriate or unacceptable.

Patients who lack motivation or adherence to a recommended treatment plan from a physical therapist, or who do not perceive value in the intervention, may be less likely to adopt PT as an option for their pain care.

Many patient factors can affect both how people view physical therapy and their ability to access it, with some populations finding it difficult to meaningfully engage in treatment. For example, low socioeconomic status or inadequate insurance present financial barriers to access and uptake. Age may influence perceptions of appropriateness of PT, with some older adults believing PT appropriateness is limited to after an injury or event (such as a fall).

Psychological factors, such as fear-avoidance beliefs and self-efficacy, can also impact both clinical and implementation outcomes. Additionally, the presence of other significant conditions associated with their pain, or pain levels that impede active participation, may necessitate a more gradual approach or adjunctive treatments.