Your first visit

You have never been to physical therapy before? Here is what will happen on your first day, what to bring, how to dress and how long treatment takes.

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Watch what to expect

What happens on your first visit

Check in
Arrive with your paperwork completed if you have been given it. Give us your referral if you have one, and tell us when you schedule if you do not: a referral is not always needed. We will copy your insurance card.
Your evaluation
One of our licensed physical therapists reviews your medical history, your current problems, what aggravates and eases the pain, how it affects your daily activities and your goals. Then your therapist examines the area, which may include touch, range of motion, muscle and nerve testing, special tests and a posture assessment.
Your plan
Your therapist lists the problems and builds a plan with your input: how many times a week, for how many weeks, your home program, short-term and long-term goals, and what is expected after discharge.

Questions we hear before a first visit

What do I need to bring with me?

Bring your physical therapy referral (provided to you by your doctor) if you have one, and your payment information. If your insurance is covering the cost of physical therapy, bring your insurance card. If you are covered by Workers’ Compensation, bring your claim number and your case manager’s contact information. If you are covered by auto insurance or an attorney lien, make sure you bring this information.

How should I dress?

You should wear loose-fitting clothing to expose the area that we will be evaluating and treating. For example, if you have a knee problem, it is best to wear shorts. For a shoulder problem, a tank top is a good choice. For low back problems, wear a loose-fitting shirt and pants, again so we can perform a thorough examination.

How long will each treatment last?

Treatment sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes per visit.

How many visits will I need?

This is highly variable. You may need one visit or you may need months of care. It depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your impairments, your past medical history, etc. You will be re-evaluated on a monthly basis and when you see your doctor, we will provide you with a progress report with our recommendations.

Who will see me?

You will be evaluated by one of our licensed and highly trained physical therapists and he/she will also treat you during subsequent visits. Unlike some clinics, where you see someone different each visit, we feel it is very important to develop a one-on-one relationship with you to maintain continuity of care.

Who pays for the treatment?

In most cases, health insurance will cover your treatment. See our insurance page for a summary of the plans we accept, and talk to our front office so we can help you clarify your insurance coverage.