What to Expect

We aim to restore the normal motion, flexibility, and strength in your muscles and joints to get them to move as freely as possible. As a result, you will function better and have reduced pain and discomfort.

Here is an overview of what will happen during your physical therapy treatment:

Before Your First Appointment

1. Follow any advice your doctor gives you.
2. Rest as much as possible to give the affected part of your body a chance to heal.
3. Apply ice to reduce the pain and any swelling that may occur.
4. Avoid repetitive motion and overuse.
5. Download and completely fill out patient forms to save time.

Your First Visit

Don’t forget to bring:

• Doctor’s prescription for physical therapy (required for treatment)
• Picture ID (ex: driver’s license)
• Insurance information
• Copayment if neededRelevant medical documents
• Your calendar (to make appointments)
• Comfortable clothes and shoes
• Completed paperwork

Your first visit will include:

Paperwork (If you do not bring your completed paperwork with you)
You will need to fill out proper paperwork at the clinic.  With this step completed at the very beginning, you will be able to concentrate on the most important part: your recovery.

Evaluation
Your Physical Therapist will be doing a full evaluation of your situation.  The therapist will be looking for any loss of normal motion, flexibility or strength in the affected area or surrounding areas.  The therapist will evaluate how this is affecting the function of your whole body during daily activities including work tasks.  The initial evaluation can take up to an hour or in some cases, longer.

Appointments Thereafter
After the initial evaluation, you will undergo regular treatments with your physical therapist.  Appointments for all your visits will be scheduled in advance and will last between 30 minutes to 45 minutes depending on your insurance.  Your physical therapist will be in contact with your designated physician as the treatment progresses. Treatment may include:

1. Modalities: The use of heat, cold, electro-stimulation, etc. to help decrease the pain patients are experiencing. Modalities help to improve circulation and/or help the muscle relax.  This is usually done as a preparation for doing exercises or activities to improve strength and flexibility.
2. Hands-on Manual Therapy: Specialized techniques used by physical therapists to relax muscles in spasm, lengthen tight muscles, restore balance to muscles, and improve motion of the joints.
3. Exercises: Tools used to aid in patient recovery that maintain the progress made in physical therapy.  This is a vital part of physical therapy because exercises help to stabilize and support the patient’s affected area. Sticking to the assigned exercises will help patients get back to restore their quality of life.
4. Posture and/or Body Mechanics Education: Safe positioning of the body during activities. Physical therapists will educate the patient about proper body mechanics to aid with recover and prevent future re-injuries.

Exit Interview
Upon completion of treatment, you will be referred to a member of our quality assurance staff.  They will conduct a quick quality assurance survey with you to ensure you have received all the necessary tools for your continued success.

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