Choosing the Right Physical Therapy Program or Facility

If you are experiencing health issues that can be remedied by physical therapy, you may feel overwhelmed when looking for the best options. Searching for a physical therapy program or clinic can be time-consuming and confusing. We have some tips for you to streamline your search. 

  

How Has Physical Therapy Changed? 

In recent years, physical therapists have changed how they treat pain and facilitate healing. Gone are the days of using ice and heat to treat your pain. In the past two decades, studies have revealed that passive treatments, like when you lie on a table and have a treatment done to you, are not as effective as active treatments. 

  

What is Active Physical Therapy? 

The short answer is active physical therapy means exercise. Of course, finding the correct activity for you is critical. However, the evidence is strong that exercise intervention is a solution for everything from cardiovascular issues to diabetes and orthopedic problems. 

  

What Kind of Physical Therapists are Available? 

One size does not fit all. While you want to look for a therapist using the most recent research and treating patients with active physical therapy, you can get even more specific. Look for the credentials "PT" (Physical therapist) or "DPT" (Doctor of physical therapy.) 

Many physical therapists specialize in one or more of ten specific areas:  

• Cardiovascular & Pulmonary
• Clinical Electrophysiology
• Geriatrics
• Neurology 
• Oncology 
• Orthopedics
• Pediatrics
• Sports
• Women's Health
• Wound Management

  

Can You Use Health Insurance for Physical Therapy? 

A critical piece of finding a physical therapy program or facility is finding out if they accept your health care plan. If you can find an in-network therapist, you will lessen your out-of-pocket costs. You can also inquire if the facility accepts cash payments outside of insurance. 

 

While asking about insurance, you can also find out if the clinic submits claims on your behalf. If your insurance requires a copayment, you might have to pay a bit outside of what the insurance company covers. 

  

How Can You Prepare for Your First Visit? 

Before you head to your first appointment with your physical therapist, there are some things you can do to make the most of your time. 

• Make a list of questions you have. 
• Write down the symptoms you are experiencing. 
• Bring a record of key medical history information. If you have x-rays or other images relevant to your concerns, bring them. 
• Ask a family member or friend to attend your sessions with you. Two sets of ears are better than one! 
• Bring your glasses or hearing aids if you wear them. 
• Bring a list of your health care providers so your physical therapist can reach out to them, if necessary. 
• Dress comfortably for movement during your session. 

 

Rogers Pharmacy is here for all your health questions. We have affordable, quality solutions for all your home healthcare needs. Reach out with confidence that our superior products and knowledgeable staff are ready to help you find the right solutions for your health needs. 

  

Stop by and see us at 125 East South Avenue in Maryville or call us at 660-562-2300.

______________________________________________________________________Sources:

https://www.choosept.com/why-physical-therapy/choosing-your-physical-therapist

https://www.nytimes.com/article/physical-therapist-search.html