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- Do I need a referral to
come to physical therapy?
In the State of NC a referral from a physician is not required to receive a physical
therapy evaluation or treatment. Some exceptions do occur. Medicare always requires a
referral to obtain physical therapy services. This referral may come from an MD, a
Physician Assistant, a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner or Optometrist. In
addition, some insurance companies require a referral to provide insurance coverage. You
should call your insurance company to determine whether or not you are required to have a
referral for coverage.
- What does a physical therapist do?
Physical therapists are experts trained in the evaluation and treatment of
musculoskeletal dysfunction. They are trained specifically to improve movement and
function, relieve pain, and expand movement potential. Physical therapy is often the
treatment of choice in situations where pain impairs function, in recovering from an
injury or surgery, and in recovering from a disease process or illness. Physical
therapists also teach adaptive and physical coping skills in dealing with impaired
function from a disease, injury or illness.
- What should I expect on my first
visit?
On your first visit, your therapist will perform a thorough evaluation of the problem.
The evaluation involves a history, certain tests and measurements, postural and movement
analysis, and palpation to determine muscular and joint involvement. Following the
evaluation, these findings will be discussed with you and a physical therapy plan of care
will be developed by you and your therapist. Treatment is rendered on the first visit as
appropriate.
-What type of treatment will I
receive?
Treatment is based on the initial evaluation findings along with ongoing reassessment
and evaluation. Treatment may consist of a variety of hands-on joint and soft tissue
treatment techniques, exercise techniques and pain reducing modalities. Treatments are
designed to increase motion and strength, reduce pain, and most importantly, restore
function. Patients are typically involved in an active exercise program at home and are
educated in ways to speed recovery and prevent recurrence of the problem.
-How long will each visit last?
The first session will last approximately one hour. Subsequent sessions are ½ - 1 hour
in length.
-When is the best time to
start physical therapy?
Typically, treatment should begin as early as possible. Treating a problem early helps
to prevent it from becoming chronic and in the prevention of future problems. This
decreases the length of time you may require treatment and reduces healthcare costs.
-Should I
ask my doctor to refer me if I think I may need therapy?
Definitely. If you have a problem you think may be helped by therapy ask your doctor or
give us a call and we will help you to determine if this is a problem that may be helped
by physical therapy.
-Will my insurance cover physical
therapy?
Most insurance companies do cover physical therapy services. The amount and type of
coverage varies. It is always best to check with your insurance company regarding specific
coverage guidelines. Our office staff will also verify your specific coverage guidelines
at your first visit.
-How can I make an appointment?
Just give us a call at 828-254-3525 and our office staff will assist you in setting up
an appointment.
-Can I choose what physical
therapist I go to?
Absolutely! The decision of where you receive treatment is yours. If you have a
specific therapist or practice you would like to go to, you should let your doctor or
insurance company know this. Not all physical therapists or practices are the same and the
choice of your provider is yours. Sometimes your physician will recommend a specific
therapist or practice to you, sometimes your insurance company will require you to go to
specific therapists or practices. You always have the right to ask for a specific
provider. If we are not "in network" with your specific insurance company, many
have out of network options that still provide coverage.
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