FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT DO PHYSICAL THERAPISTS DO?

Physical therapists are experts in movement and function. They are educated and licensed to treat musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions of any kind. They work to improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care and patient education. Physical therapists help people achieve fitness goals and regain/maintain independence. Following an evaluation, a program is designed and progressed by your physical therapist specifically for your individual needs. Physical therapy often involves rehabilitation following injuries, chronic pain or surgery. However, it can be used to prevent injury, loss of movement and even surgery if sought out early enough.

DO I NEED A PHYSICIAN REFERRAL?

A physician’s referral is not always necessary to see a physical therapist. However, some insurances do require it.

WHAT TYPES OF HEALTH INSURANCE DO YOU ACCEPT?

We accept most private health insurances, Medicare and Wellcare. If you are unsure if we take your insurance, please give us a call. We also work with uninsured patients at a very reasonable rate.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FIRST VISIT?

At your first visit, or initial evaluation, you will begin with filling out paperwork to include demographics, health history and questions specific to your current problem. Once finished with paperwork, the evaluation portion with Paige will begin. The following will be discussed: medical history, current symptoms/complaints, pain intensity, activities that exacerbate or ease your symptoms, how your daily life is impacted, goals for physical therapy and what activities you would like to return to upon discharge from our care. Paige will then perform the objective evaluation, which consists of assessing range of motion, muscular strength, balance, posture, sensation, special tests, etc. This part of the evaluation is to point out deficits in any of the above to determine a physical therapy diagnosis. From this diagnosis, an individualized physical therapy plan will be developed with the patient's input.

WHAT SHOULD I BE PREPARED TO BRING WITH ME?

For the initial evaluation, please come with your physical therapy referral from your physician (if applicable) and your payment information. If you take multiple medications, a list may be helpful. If you plan to bill through your insurance, bring your insurance card to allow verification of coverage. If Workers' Compensation is covering your care, bring your claim number and your case manager's contact information.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

You should wear comfortable clothes that are loose fitting so the area the therapist is evaluating can be easily exposed. Shorts for knee problems, tank tops for shoulder injuries and loose fitting pants for low back pain are ideal examples. You can also bring a change of clothes to change into at the clinic prior to your appointment, if needed.