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What's the difference between a Physical Therapist and a Physical Terapist Assistant?Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating individuals with a range of medical conditions that impact daily life. They focus on restoring lost function and enhancing quality of life. Physical therapist assistants work closely with the team, providing therapy services under the direction of the physical therapist.
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How do I get started with Physical Therapy?Your primary care physician or other specialists, such as orthopedic surgeons, physician assistants (PAs), and nurse practitioners (NPs), can write prescriptions for you to be treated by a licensed physical therapist.
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What should I expect at my first Physical Therapy appointment?During your first appointment, your physical therapist will start by getting to know you. They'll take a detailed patient history to help develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. Following this, the therapist will conduct a systems review to ensure physical therapy is safe for you. Next, various tests and measures will be used to identify any existing issues. Using this information, your therapist will create a personalized treatment plan and offer interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and neuromuscular reeducation. Your initial visit typically lasts about an hour, but it may extend longer based on your specific condition. Follow-up appointments will vary in length (ranging from 45 to 90 minutes) depending on your progress and treatment goals.
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Do I have the option to choose a Physical Therapist other than the one recommended by my doctor?Yes! It is your right to choose your Physical Therapist! This means you can choose to receive physical therapy (PT) treatment that aligns best with your preferences and needs. While your healthcare provider may offer recommendations based on their expertise, according to New York State legislation, they cannot mandate where you receive your PT services.
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How often do I need to attend Physical Therapy?Patients typically schedule 2 to 3 therapy sessions per week, taking into account factors such as the initial evaluation, the patient's availability, and insurance coverage allowances.
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Will you be in contact with my doctor regarding my recovery progress?Yes, as physical therapists, we regularly write progress notes to update your doctor on your treatment progress. Additionally, we may also communicate with them directly via phone calls.
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What can I do at home to help my recovery process?Following a comprehensive evaluation, your physical therapist will create a personalized home exercise program tailored to your specific goals. You will receive a worksheet with detailed instructions for each exercise, along with any necessary tools like exercise bands or tubing, to use at home.
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