Dr. Jordan Sudberg on Advancing Accessibility and Inclusivity in Physical Therapy

In an era where equitable healthcare is becoming a growing priority, the field of physical therapy is stepping up to ensure that all patients—regardless of background, ability, or circumstance—receive the care they need. But while progress has been made, gaps in accessibility and inclusivity still remain.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a respected pain management specialist who collaborates regularly with physical therapists, has long emphasized the need for systemic change. He believes that to truly serve communities, physical therapy services must not only be effective—but also equitable and inclusive.

This article explores how physical therapy can evolve to be more accessible and inclusive, highlights current barriers to care, and shares insights from Dr. Sudberg on how professionals and institutions can lead the way forward.

Understanding Accessibility in Physical Therapy

Accessibility in physical therapy refers to a patient’s ability to receive and participate in treatment without undue barriers. While the concept may seem straightforward, accessibility issues can arise from a variety of sources:

• Geographic barriers: Rural or underserved communities often lack access to PT clinics.
  
• Financial constraints: High co-pays, deductibles, or lack of insurance can deter patients.
  
• Physical limitations: Facilities that aren’t ADA-compliant or don’t provide transportation support exclude many patients.
  
• Technological gaps: Telehealth options may not be accessible to individuals with disabilities or limited digital literacy.
  
• Scheduling conflicts: Inflexible clinic hours can prevent working individuals or caregivers from receiving care.
  

Dr. Jordan Sudberg explains:

“We can’t assume that just because physical therapy exists, everyone can access it. Accessibility requires intention—it’s about removing real-world obstacles, not just opening the door.”

Inclusivity: More Than Representation

Inclusivity in physical therapy extends beyond physical access to include cultural competence, individualized care, and psychological safety. Inclusive PT practice acknowledges:

• Diverse identities (race, gender, religion, sexual orientation)
  
• Different physical and cognitive abilities
  
• Varied learning styles and communication needs
  
• Historical mistrust or fear of medical systems
  
• Socioeconomic differences that affect compliance and outcomes
  

Dr. Sudberg emphasizes:

“An inclusive therapist sees the whole patient—not just their injury. They understand their life context, culture, and comfort level, and they adapt care accordingly.”

Barriers to Accessible and Inclusive Physical Therapy

Despite advances, significant barriers persist. These include:

1. Language and Communication Challenges

Patients with limited English proficiency often struggle to understand treatment plans or express concerns. Many clinics lack multilingual staff or translation services.

2. Physical Inaccessibility

Some PT clinics still have structural or design flaws that limit access for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility impairments. This can include:

• Lack of ramps or elevators
  
• Inaccessible restrooms
  
• Equipment not suited for adaptive use
  

3. Financial Exclusion

Even with insurance, high out-of-pocket costs deter patients from continuing therapy—particularly in chronic pain cases, where long-term care may be needed.

4. Cultural Disconnect

When therapists lack cultural awareness or sensitivity, patients may feel misunderstood or alienated, leading to reduced engagement and lower success rates.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg’s Approach: Bridging Gaps with Empathy and Innovation

In his pain management practice, Dr. Sudberg often coordinates with physical therapists, particularly for patients recovering from surgery, injury, or living with chronic conditions. He stresses a patient-centered, culturally aware model that includes:

• Bilingual or translated resources
  
• Trauma-informed care approaches
  
• Education on patient rights and expectations
  
• Flexible scheduling and telehealth options
  
• Outreach programs in underserved communities
  

“We can’t expect patients to overcome barriers alone,” he says. “Healthcare providers must take responsibility for creating inclusive systems that adapt to real-life challenges.”

Telehealth: A Tool for Inclusive Physical Therapy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth became a lifeline for many. While virtual physical therapy has limitations—especially for hands-on treatments—it has proven useful for:

• Conducting follow-ups
  
• Demonstrating exercises
  
• Offering consultations and assessments
  
• Reaching patients with mobility or transportation challenges
  

Dr. Sudberg has embraced telehealth in his own practice and advocates for its broader integration into physical therapy.

“Telehealth isn’t a substitute—it’s a supplement. Used wisely, it expands access without compromising care,” he notes.

Training for Inclusion: Equipping the Next Generation

Physical therapy education is also evolving. Many programs now include curriculum components on:

• Cultural competency
  
• Disability studies
  
• Health equity
  
• Social determinants of health
  

But Dr. Sudberg believes more can be done.

“We must train therapists not just in anatomy and biomechanics, but in empathy, communication, and awareness. That’s what makes care truly effective.”

He recommends continuing education requirements around diversity, inclusion, and health disparities for practicing clinicians.

What Physical Therapy Clinics Can Do Now

Inclusivity doesn’t require a massive overhaul. Even small, intentional changes can improve patient experience and outcomes. Here are steps Dr. Sudberg encourages physical therapy practices to take:

• Conduct an accessibility audit of the clinic environment
  
• Offer sliding scale fees or payment plans
  
• Hire diverse staff who reflect the community
  
• Provide cultural humility training for all team members
  
• Use inclusive imagery and language in marketing and forms
  
• Incorporate patient feedback into service design
  

“The more patients feel seen, heard, and respected, the more they invest in their own healing,” he says.

Real Lives, Real Impact: A Case for Change

Dr. Sudberg shares the story of a patient—a Spanish-speaking woman with limited mobility—who delayed treatment for years due to fear, language barriers, and transportation issues.

With the help of an inclusive PT clinic that offered Spanish-speaking staff, flexible scheduling, and in-home telehealth sessions, she regained mobility and significantly reduced her pain.

“Her outcome wasn’t just about the therapy—it was about the environment. When care becomes accessible, transformation becomes possible,” Sudberg reflects.

Conclusion: Building a More Inclusive Future in Physical Therapy

Physical therapy has the power to change lives—but only if everyone can access it. Through intentional design, empathy-driven practice, and a commitment to equity, physical therapists and healthcare leaders can build a more inclusive system.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg continues to advocate for a healthcare model that sees patients not as conditions, but as whole people shaped by many factors. His work serves as a reminder that accessibility and inclusivity aren’t extras—they’re essentials.

“If we want better health outcomes, we need better access. And better access starts with inclusion at every level—from the waiting room to the treatment plan,” Dr. Sudberg concludes.