Who uses Physical or Rehabilitative Therapy?
Those who benefit most from Physical Therapy are individuals who are in need of restoring injured body parts, increasing the range of motion of a joint or joints, or building strength. We also help improve posture and the associated muscle imbalances, which if left uncorrected can cause damaging musculoskeletal conditions. Additionally, we help patients who have undergone surgeries and who are in need of Physical Therapy to regain optimal physical functioning. And, of course, we always help you address any pain associated with your condition.
What should I bring with me to my first appointment?
Please bring any pertinent records from your physician, a list of your medications, any allergies, and any X-ray, MRI or CT Scan reports. We also recommend bringing in a list of any questions or concerns you may have. Please make sure that you arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment so that you can provide us the necessary paperwork and insurance information to put you in our system. To save time, you can also print the Intake Forms located on our "forms page" on our website, and bring them completed to your appointment.
What should I wear?
We highly recommend you bring comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing or athletic wear to our Physical Therapy clinic because oftentimes we will be stretching or exercising you. Your clothes should also allow us to expose & evaluate your area of injury, so please dress accordingly. As for footwear, we suggest comfortable, closed-toe shoes, preferably sneakers. If you have any questions, please contact us prior to your first appointment.
How long does each visit take?
The initial visit takes a little longer than the subsequent visits due to the paperwork that you need to fill out, in addition to the completion of the evaluation process. Normally, appointments are usually between 45 and 60 minutes.
How long will I need Physical Therapy?
You will need to attend Physical Therapy sessions until you and your therapist decide that you have reached your desired level of function or that further therapy would not be beneficial. Normally, your treatment progresses in 4 week periods unless otherwise specified. After the completion of a 4 week period, we will perform a Re-evaluation and write a Progress Report for your doctor. We are the eyes and ears of your progress for your doctor, and we will keep them informed.
When should I start seeing improvement?
Again, that depends on the same factors associated with how long treatment will take. We make a treatment plan for you, which includes follow up in-clinic sessions and, when indicated, we will add in Home Exercises for you to do on your days away from PT. If at any point you feel like you are not progressing at a satisfactory rate, please share your feelings so that we know and we will collaborate with you to modify your treatment plan. We will always keep you informed as well about your progress.
Will you keep in contact with my doctor?
After your initial evaluation we will send a copy of the examination to your doctor along with progress notes at regular intervals.
Will I see the same person every visit?
We will make every attempt to schedule you with the therapist you desire to see. However, there may be times when another Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant will treat you to accommodate your schedule. All of our Physical Therapists and Assistants are fully-licensed and enjoy delivering high-quality care.
Will my insurance company pay for Physical Therapy?
Generally, most insurance companies pay for Physical Therapy. Once we have your insurance information, we will obtain authorization for you for Physical Therapy services.In addition, we recommend that you call the benefit number listed on your insurance card to check on your insurance benefits before you start therapy. If you do not carry insurance, cash payment plans are available. Please remember that you, the patient, are ultimately responsible for informing yourself regarding covered medical services
Do I need a physician's referral for Physical Therapy?
Most insurance companies will require that you get a physician's referral for physical therapy, which you need to bring on your first appointment. You can also call your physician's office and request that they fax a referral to the PT clinic, but sometimes the doctor might want to see you first. Medicare requires the patient to be seen every 30 days by their physician to continue with therapy.