Physical Therapy is the treatment of disease, injury, or deformity by physical methods such as massage, heat treatment, and exercise rather than by drugs or surgery. Physical Therapy utilizes neuromuscular re-education exercises, manual therapy (similar to massage), and patient education to decrease your pain and help you return to your pre-injury functionality.
Q.
What is a Physical Therapist?
A.
Physical Therapists (PTs) are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility. In many cases, this can be accomplished without surgery, and often reduces patents’ need for long-term medication
Q.
Will Physical Therapy cause me pain?
A.
No, Physical Therapy should not cause more pain than you are already experiencing. However, there is a difference between pain and muscle soreness. Someone unfamiliar with muscle soreness may perceive strong discomfort; however this is a good sign that you are building muscle and regaining your normal functionality.
Q.
What type of Physical Therapy does Centre do?
A.
At Centre we specialize in orthopedic injuries, whether ongoing or recent (e.g. something that happened as a result of a car accident, slip, sprain/strain, or overuse injury). We’re also experts in post-surgical rehabilitation, and can help you restore your mobility. A list of our services can be viewed here.
Yes! We accept most major insurances including PPOs and Medicare.
Q.
Do I need a Physician’s prescription (referral) for Physical Therapy?
A.
If you have Medicare then you will need a prescription from a physician.
Through Direct Access in Illinois, if you have any other type of insurance, then you can receive either ten physical therapy visits or be seen over a three week time period (whichever comes first) before requiring a physical therapy prescription from any physician, physician assistant, or chiropractor.
Q.
How long will my appointment be?
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You can expect your appointments to range from 60-90 minutes to accommodate your specific physical limitations and diagnosis.
Q.
How long will I be in Physical Therapy?
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Treatment length is individualized and patient-specific; it depends on patient goals, diagnosis, and physical limitations, among other factors.
Q.
Will I be doing the same exercises every single session?
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No. There may be overlap in the exercises you perform from session to session, and we may review exercises from your home program or previous session; however, you will be learning new exercises each session as you progress towards your goals.
Will I be seen by a Physical Therapist or a rehab aide?
A.
Each session with be one on one with your physical therapist without the utilization of a Rehab Aide.
Q.
Who would benefit from Physical Therapy?
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Physical Therapy benefits a wide range of people. Maybe you’re suffering from muscle weakness or balance problems, or you’ve lost some functional abilities and cannot complete your daily activities independently. Physical Therapy helps to treat your discomfort and restore your normal functionality.
Q.
What will I have to do after Physical Therapy?
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Once you’ve completed your course of treatment, you’ll be given an individualized home program that you should continue to perform for optimal mobility.
Q.
I don’t have a doctor’s referral. Can I come anyway?
A.
Anyone, with the exception of Medicare patients, can be seen in physical therapy without a physician’s referral.
Q.
Physical Therapy is only for people who have gone through a surgery, trauma, or car accident, right?
A.
Nope! Many people who pursue Physical Therapy have pain from joint/muscle overuse, arthritis, or other long-standing medical issues. Physical Therapy is for anyone experiencing pain or having a difficult time performing their daily activities (e.g. climbing stairs, walking, lifting, sitting, etc.).
