Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a physical therapist?
Physical Therapists are licensed health care professionals who are experts in musculoskeletal dysfunctions. Therapists are trained to analyze movement and identify abnormal mechanics. Physical therapists utilize movement, various hands on techniques, exercise of all types, and modalities (heat, electricity, ultrasound, etc) in order to improve your potential to live the life you desire. From this assessment, a physical therapist will treat a dysfunction with manual skills, accelerating the recovery process. Our goal is to assist you in achieving the highest, most safe level of activity possible over the shortest time period.
2. My doctor wrote me orders for physical therapy at another facility but I would rather get treated at Active Body Physical Therapy. Am I allowed to do this?
YES! All patients have the right to choose where they attend physical therapy. We work diligently to coordinate our services with all medical doctors and other healthcare professionals.
3. How long is each visit?
The first visit, the initial evaluation, takes about one hour, including filling out the necessary paperwork. Each follow-up appointment is approximately 45-60 minutes, but may vary depending on the type of treatment required. Speak with the therapist about this after your first session.
4. What information do I need to bring with me to my first visit?
On your initial visit, please bring physician’s orders for physical therapy, your insurance card, proper insurance referrals (if your plan requires one) and any other appropriate billing information. In addition, please wear gym clothes or loose fitting clothing!
5. In addition to the evaluation, what else will be involved in my treatment?
Therapists may use one or a combination of the following interventions to achieve treatment goals: Therapeutic exercises (including aerobic conditioning); Manual therapy techniques (soft tissue and joint mobilization); Mechanical and/or thermal modalities; Electro-therapeutic modalities.
6. Is there anything I can do at home to help speed up the recovery process along?
Yes! We will customize a home treatment program (HEP) for you – it will include advice on how to reduce your pain, exercises and stretches -- so that you can continue your rehabilitation process in between physical therapy sessions. It is essential that you follow the instructions and perform the home exercises regularly to control your symptoms and accelerate your recovery.