What is the difference between physiotherapy and physical therapy?
Physiotherapy is physical therapy, only more effective. Physiotherapy is the European/Australian term for physical therapy. In the US, physical therapy training varies from one university to the next. Some programs cover hands-on manual therapy, while some do not. Manual therapy training involves manual techniques based on clinical reasoning through the exam. Research shows that when appropriate personalized exercises are combined with skillful hands-on techniques, patients achieve better outcomes. Physiotherapy combines clinical reasoning, manual therapy, and personalized exercise to get the best results. Our therapist receives ongoing professional training in physiotherapy.
Do I need a physician referral or a script to make an appointment?
Our office does not require a physician referral or prescription to see you for therapy but, many insurances will require a prescription in order to pay for the visit. Please check with your insurance.
Medicare patients can be seen for the initial therapy visit. We will send medical notes of the visit to your doctor. When your primary care physician signs off on the therapy recommended we can schedule more visits.
Do you accept Medicaid?
Our office no longer accepts Medicaid patients. Medicaid does not allow members to pay for services individually outside their program. We do accept patients whose secondary insurance is Medicaid when the primary insurance is Medicare.
What should I expect on my first day?
A licensed physical therapist will meet with you to conduct a detailed medical history and orthopedic assessment. Usually, we will initiate treatment that same day, beginning with hands-on therapy to relieve your pain, stiffness, and muscle spasm. We’ll discuss your therapy goals, and you’ll receive a clear explanation of your condition and treatment plan, plus a personalized home exercise program. We’ll do everything possible to help you achieve a quick and pain free recovery. We ask that you wear comfortable clothing to every therapy appointment.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI before beginning therapy?
In most cases, no. If your physical therapist feels you may need further tests, we will discuss this with you and your physician before beginning treatment.
If you happen to have had an X-ray or MRI please bring those records with you. This is information the therapist would like to review and keep in your therapy file.
Will I get exercises to do at home?
Yes. You’ll receive an exercise program customized for your needs. We do not hand out generic exercise sheets. At your first visit, we’ll show you the correct and comfortable way to perform your personalized home exercises. On your next visit, we’ll check again that you’re doing these correctly. As your condition improves, your exercise program will advance. Home exercise helps you sustain your recovery without further treatment. Long-lasting results are our goal.
How long does each session last?
The initial visit will typically last about an hour. This time will give the therapist enough time to conduct a thorough assessment. Usually, we will initiate treatment that same day, beginning with hands-on therapy to relieve your pain, stiffness, and muscle spasm. We’ll discuss your therapy goals, and you’ll receive a clear explanation of your condition and treatment plan, plus a personalized home exercise program.
After the initial visit therapy visits will generally be about 30 minutes. On each visit, we’ll check again that you’re doing your home exercises correctly. As your condition improves, your exercise program will advance. The therapist will show you the correct and comfortable way to perform your personalized home exercises.
How many visits will I need?
Everyone is physically unique. Some people reach their goals within 3 visits. Other cases take longer. On average, patients reach their goals after 8 to 9 sessions. The earlier you begin treatment and the more consistent and dedicated you are to your home exercise program, the fewer sessions you typically need. At your first visit, we’ll discuss how many sessions you will likely need.