What is physical therapy?

Physical Therapy (PT) is the treatment of disorders with physical agents and methods such as therapeutic exercises, mobilization, electrical and light modalities to assist in rehabilitating patients and restoring normal function after illness or injury.

Physical therapy is a necessary tool to bring a patient back to their full, physical potential. Physical therapy care focuses primarily on the rehabilitation of motor skills, range of motion, strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Physical therapy also focuses on teaching preventative measures to patients in order to prevent further injury and pain.

 

What types of physical therapy are there?

Physical therapists can address several different needs. Specialized treatments include:

• Manual Therapy
• Therapeutic Exercise
• Spine Care & Rehabilitation
• Sports Related Injuries & Conditions
• Pain Management
• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
• Post MVA (Motor Vehicle Accident) Rehab
• Work-Related Injuries & Evaluations (i.e. FCE’s)
• Cancer-Related Fatigue
• Balance & Fall Prevention
• and many others

 

Can I choose where I want to have physical therapy?

Yes. The choice of where you receive therapy is always yours. While the majority of our patients come to us by physician referral/recommendation, many clients request to see us due to our strong clinical reputation in the community.

 

Do I need a physician referral to receive therapy?

We operate in a direct access state where, if your insurance plan authorizes self-referral to physical therapy, a physician referral is not necessary for you to be seen by a licensed therapist. Please check with your insurance though as many health insurance plans require a physicians referral for therapy to be covered.We also offer treatments, services and/or products that do NOT require a referral and are available on a self-pay basis.

 

Does my insurance cover treatment?

A referral must be obtained for physical therapy. Insurance coverage differs with each carrier. Most will pay for a significant percentage of your treatment. As a courtesy, we will call your insurer to give you an idea of your coverage. We encourage you to also call your insurer to confirm the coverage and benefits we quoted. Some physical therapists provide certain treatments that are NOT covered by insurance but are available on a cash payment basis. If this is an available option for your treatment, we will inform you in advance.

 

Does your facility submit claims to my insurance company?

As a service to our patients, we will gladly file claims with your insurance company on your behalf. In order to appropriately submit these claims, we will need to obtain a copy of your insurance identification card to ensure that we have the necessary information.

 

Getting Started with Physical Therapy:

On your first visit to the clinic, your therapist will conduct an evaluation of your problem. This process usually lasts between 60-90 minutes. The evaluation is necessary to create a program designed specifically to address your needs for a full recovery.

 

What do I bring on my first visit?

On your first visit you will need to bring a few things.  If your physician has not sent your referral electronically, please bring your referral slip with you. You will also need to bring your insurance cards and a Photo I.D. If you are getting therapy as a result of a worker’s compensation claim or an automobile accident, you will also need to bring your claim information, including claim number. Please make sure to arrive 15 minutes early on your first visit to fill out any necessary paperwork.

 

What do I wear?

You want to be as comfortable as possible when you go in for your appointment. Most therapists will recommend that you come in sweatpants or shorts, a T-shirt or tank-top and sneakers.

 

How long is each visit?

Each visit will last 60 – 90 minutes on average. Times vary due to the treatment and exercises being performed.

 

How often do I go to treatment?

The regularity of your visits will be determined after your initial evaluation, but most patients have 2-3 visits each week scheduled. You can also continue your treatments at home using information provided by your therapist.

 

When will I see the results?

Most patients will notice a difference by the 2nd or 3rd visit. Obviously, everyone is different and response times to treatment may vary. If you feel that you are not progressing on schedule, please consult your therapist and express your concerns.