Preparing for Your Physical Therapy Visit
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 flexibility, or building strength. We also help improve posture, which if left uncorrected can cause damaging musculoskeletal conditions. Additionally, we help patients who have undergone surgeries and who are in need of therapy to regain optimal physical functionality.
What should I bring with me to my first appointment?
Please bring any records from your previous doctors, a list of your medications, allergies, and a list of prior doctors. We also recommend bringing in a list of any questions or concerns you may have. If you completed the Intake Forms prior, please bring those in with you too. If you did not, please make sure that you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment; this gives us time to put the necessary paperwork and insurance information in our system, without cutting into your appointment time.
What should I wear?
We highly recommend you bring comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing or athletic wear to our physical rehab clinic because oftentimes we will be stretching or exercising you. Your clothes should also allow us to 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 assessment 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. Often, therapy will also be monitored by your physician.
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 and regular maintenance visits to our physical rehab clinic. If at any point you feel like you are not progressing at a satisfactory rate, we will collaborate with you to modify your treatment plan. We will always keep you informed about your progress as well.
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 physical therapist every time?
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 or certified, and enjoy delivering high-quality care.
Will my insurance pay for therapy?
Generally, most insurance companies pay for physical therapy. 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.
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. Medicare requires the patient to be seen every 30 days by their physician to continue with therapy.