Question 1

What should I wear to Physical Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Loose fitting clothing that you feel comfortable moving and exercising in is ideal. Jeans, tight leggings, slacks, can be difficult to maneuver around and may make the manual techniques we use less effective and can limit how well you perform movements in clinic.

Question 2

Do you take my Insurance?

Accepted Answer

We accept most PPO Insurance policies and MediCare; our front desk will work with you to check your benefits and eligibility, and will inform you of any patient responsibilities such as co-pays due at time of appointment.

Question 3

What should I expect at Physical Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Since we prioritize our 1:1 time with you, each session is customized to meet your needs. But there are a few general things you can expect:

First, before we can improve your symptoms, we need to understand why you're experiencing them. This means we watch how you move, take measurements such as how far a joint can move or assess your strength, and see what we can help you improve.

We use manual therapy techniques to help reduce pain, and to help ensure your body is capable of doing what you need it to. Manual therapy includes techniques for reducing inflammation, soft tissue stimulation to relax and mobilize muscles, stretching, manual strengthening techniques, joint mobilizations to regain movement, and so much more.

We utilize exercise to reinforce what we do with our manual therapy and give you the tools for long-term results. Also, we know not every person likes to go to a gym, so we ensure our exercises are able to be performed at home with minimal equipment.

We also have modalities that can help further reduce pain and inflammation, and help you leave physical therapy feeling great - these include hot packs, ice packs, E-stim (electrical stimulation), ultrasound, and more.

Our sessions average 45 minutes to 1 hour per session.

We look forward to meeting you!

Question 4

Is Physical Therapy the same as Occupational Therapy?

Accepted Answer

The basic answer is no, these are two different specialties. But it can get confusing because we share some similar goals and techniques.

PT and OT both have a goal to improve how you move for a better quality of life and long-term health. We both use manual therapy techniques, hands-on care, exercises, and more to help you achieve your goals.

Physical Therapists take a deeper dive into your anatomy - from the muscles and skeletal systems through the nerves, to find ways to give you strength, endurance, and the ability to perform your needed tasks without pain and with confidence. We are highly skilled with returning to regular tasks after major life events like surgery or stroke.

Occupational Therapists take look at the lifestyle surrounding the physical limitations, such as home set-up, support systems, mental capabilities, emotions, and more. This means they can guide you in the HOW to perform your tasks.

For example, if you had a surgery that limits how high you can lift your arm, your physical therapist will work hard to get you as much movement back as possible. They will rebuild your muscle strength and endurance, teach you grip techniques, pain management techniques. Your occupational therapist will focus more on how to accomplish tasks with this new limitation - how to brush your hair if you can't raise your arm, how to adapt your kitchen to make it more functional for you.

Both approaches are powerful tools for rehabilitation, and both specialties are happy to work together to find the best option for you!

Question 5

Do You Validate Parking?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Please park in the Parking Structure of St. Joseph's Hospital; we will validate your parking for up to 2 hours at a time. Bring your ticket into the office with you and we'll provide you with a sticker at your appointment.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear to Physical Therapy?

Do you take my Insurance?

What should I expect at Physical Therapy?

Is Physical Therapy the same as Occupational Therapy?

Do You Validate Parking?