Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes, physical therapy is covered by most medical health insurance  companies, but can vary from one physical therapy practice to another.   The patient may have co-payments and/or deductibles depending on the  type of medical health insurance plan they have.  

Yes, you need a physician referral to begin physical therapy only if  you plan to use your medical health insurance to cover the costs for  physical therapy services.  The physical therapy referral can be made by  any physician such as your primary care physician or specialist, nurse  practitioner, and often times a physician assistant.  

No, you don’t need a physician referral for physical therapy services when paying out of pocket.   

The initial evaluation will take place on the first appointment,  which consists of a thorough examination based on the injury / condition  that will be treated.  The intervention and treatment portion will  begin right after the initial evaluation, which consists of a variety of  manual therapy treatments such as joint and soft tissue mobilization,  therapeutic exercise, posture and body mechanics training, and  modalities to help decrease pain and improve functional mobility. 

It’s recommended to keep hydrated and to wear comfortable clothing  for your physical therapy appointments because you will likely be  exercising and practicing functional movements during your session.   Recommended clothing resembles gym wear or anything that allows you to  move and stretch without clothing restricting you.  Have water readily  available.  Having an exercise towel is a good idea.  

 The number of physical therapy visits needed varies from one  diagnosis to another and how much pain the patient is in.  The average  number of visits a patient will typically go through for a non-surgical  condition is about 8 to 12 visits, and about 10 to 20 visits for  post-surgical patients.