Frequently Asked Questions
| Testimonial |
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I feel like I recover faster from my injuries. If I use my body for just about anything I've injured, it would take three weeks to a month to recover from a neck injury for instance, but now my recovery may take place in one or two visits. The result is that I am doing more with my life and feel much better. Therapy on my right arm is feeling much better. It is helping the pain and I would recommend everyone to come to APOT. — JS |
- Do I need a prescription for physical therapy?
- What kinds of services and treatment can I expect?
- What should I expect to take place on my first visit?
- What should I bring to my first visit?
- What time should I arrive for my first visit?
- How long is each session?
Do I need a prescription for physical therapy?
Thanks to recent direct access legislation passed in New York, we can treat you immediately without a prescription or referral from a physician. You are entitled to 10 visits or a 30-day period of treatment, whichever occurs first. If further treatment is needed, then a referral from a physician is necessary. Also, some insurance companies may require a prescription for reimbursement of services. When we verify your insurance coverage, we will check with your provider to find out if a prescription is necessary and let you know.
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What kinds of services and treatment can I expect?
A physical therapist will take your health history, observe your posture and movement, and evaluate problem areas. Treatment may include, but is not limited to the following:
- manual therapy
- therapeutic exercise
- application of therapeutic techniques such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation, moist heat and ice
- training for activities of daily living
- individualized home exercise program
- strengthening and flexibility exercises
- patient education
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What should I expect to take place on my first visit?
An initial evaluation will be performed by a physical therapist that lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. A thorough review of your medical history leading up to the injury will be discussed. The therapist will then assess your posture, joint mobility, range of motion, strength, muscle integrity and flexibility. After your evaluation is completed, some portion of the treatment plan will be started on your first visit. There is always ample time to answer any questions you may have regarding your condition. At the end of your visit, you will be asked to schedule follow-up appointments based on your needs and availability.
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What should I bring to my first visit?
It depends on the nature of your injury, however, we suggest that you bring comfortable workout attire, including sneakers. Shorts are recommended for knee, ankle, or foot conditions. Women should wear a sports bra for neck or shoulder conditions. We also provide t-shirts, shorts and medical gowns to allow access to the neck or lower back. You should also bring your prescription from your physician and your insurance card/information.
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What time should I arrive for my first visit?
We recommended that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment in order to complete all the necessary paperwork. If you would like to fill out the paperwork before you arrive, please go to our Forms page to download.
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How long is each session?
Again, it depends on the nature of your treatment, but a typical session is 30 – 60 minutes.
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