What to Expect

Physical therapy is a noninvasive approach to the treatment of physical injuries.  We work in assisting people to reach their highest functional status based on their desired goals.  Goals can be as simple as full range of motion in the ankle after surgery and as advanced as completing a triathlon.  Our main objective is to remove the factors contributing to the injury instead of just masking the symptoms.

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Who Can Benefit From Physical Therapy?

Anyone with a physical condition that results in some form of functional limitation is a potential candidate for physical therapy. Examples include post-surgical conditions, traumatic injuries, sports injuries and repetitive strain injuries.

How Long Does Physical Therapy Take?

The evaluation and all follow up sessions last about an hour.  Typical physical therapy programs last two to six weeks at a frequency of two to three times per week, depending on what your referring doctor prescribes.  The length of your treatment depends entirely on the severity of your condition.  Your treatment is completed when the therapist and referring doctor feel that you have returned to your prior level of function, have met your goals, or feel you have control over your symptoms.

How Does Physical Therapy Work?

Typically, treatment begins after your doctor or surgeon gives you a referral for physical therapy.  This is needed in order to submit claims to insurance companies.  Any physical therapy referral will do- even if it lists a different clinic name! Patients who want to pay cash do not need a referral.  An initial evaluation is performed on your first visit to find the source of your physical ailment and determine the best strategy to maximize your benefit in rehab.  Typical tests performed include flexibility, strength, range of motion, and active/dynamic movement assessments.  Every program is customized to address an individual’s specific needs and deficits.  The therapist and your referring doctor work closely together to make sure that treatment is beneficial.  Treatments can include, but are not limited to, manual therapy (soft tissue and joint mobilization), therapeutic exercise, iontophoresis, gait training, and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation if needed.

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