Physical Therapy

Physical Therapists (PTs) are licensed, highly-skilled, hands-on rehabilitation professionals. They can help patients reduce pain and improve function and restore mobility. In many cases, Physical Therapy is the first avenue for noninvasive treatment. Because of the effectiveness of Physical Therapy, it often reduces the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects.

Our Physical Therapists also teach patients how to manage their condition, so that they will achieve long-term health benefits, stay active, and enjoy a better quality of life.

Physical Therapy is essential for proper recovery from surgery such as joint replacements or ligament repairs. Restoring strength and range of motion under the care of a skilled Physical Therapist is imperative for both short and long-term post-surgical success. Our Aquatic Therapy program is an experience that can make a dramatic impact on recovery for many different types of conditions, especially sports injuries and post-surgical cases.

Additionally, our PTs design personalized home exercise programs to supplement the treatment here. Upon discharge, patients have exercises that can provide lifelong mobility support, and future injury prevention for your condition – especially for athletes with more active lifestyles.

Physical Therapists at The Hetrick Center also provide care for people in a variety of settings, including Virtual Physical Therapy, and 1 at-home post-surgery visit if it is ordered by your doctor. We also offer Direct Access for most patients, which means you do not need an RX from your doctor to get Physical Therapy – you can come directly to our PT Department for 30 days. Some insurances may require a referral or authorization.

Evaluations

Every patient has an initial evaluation, at which time they sit down with the Physical Therapist and describe how they are feeling. What makes them feel better and or worse, what daily and recreational activities they are able to do. What things they cannot do. The most important issue is what the patient’s goals are? The PT will then measure motion in the joints, test strength, and palpate for areas of pain. After the evaluation is done, the therapist will explain the findings to the patient.

Follow up treatments

Because each patient’s need is so different, each treatment plan is designed for the patient. These plans include a review of the patient’s goals, as well as the therapist’s goals to make sure everyone is in agreement. Subsequent visits typically occur two to three times per week, depending on the patient’s needs. So these sessions can include exercises, stretches, hands-on care by the therapist or therapist’s assistant. Also, various modalities to help decrease pain and/or inflammation, and an educational component.

Re-evaluations

As you improve, the exercises will also proceed to include specific sport and/or work-related simulation exercises if necessary. A re-evaluation will be done approximately every thirty days to assess your progress. Each re-evaluation will be fax to your physician to coordinate care. When all goals are sufficiently met, as express by you, your therapist, and your physician, you will discharge to an independent home exercise program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is physical therapy and how can it help me?

Physical therapy is a personalized, hands-on approach to improving movement, reducing pain, and restoring function. It focuses on identifying the root cause of discomfort or limitation and using targeted exercises, manual therapy, and specialized techniques to help your body heal and perform at its best.

What conditions can physical therapy treat?

Physical therapy can address a wide range of conditions, including back and neck pain, joint injuries, sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, arthritis, and mobility issues. It is also effective for improving balance, flexibility, strength, and overall physical performance.

Do I need a referral to start physical therapy?

In many cases, you may not need a physician referral to begin physical therapy, depending on state regulations and your insurance provider. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance company or the clinic to understand your specific requirements.

What happens during my first physical therapy appointment?

Your first visit will include a comprehensive evaluation where your physical therapist reviews your medical history, assesses your movement, strength, and flexibility, and discusses your goals. Based on this assessment, they will create a customized treatment plan and may begin therapy during the same session.

How long does it take to see results from physical therapy?

Results vary depending on your condition, severity, and consistency with your treatment plan. Many patients begin to notice improvements in pain and mobility within a few sessions, while more complex conditions may require a longer course of care to achieve optimal results.