Frequently Asked Questions

 How do I know if I need Physical Therapy?

Physical Therapy is an excellent treatment intervention for people in pain, post injury, post-surgery, with weakness, loss of range of motion, balance impairments, frequent falls, or if you are diagnosed with a medical condition. Physical Therapy can also benefit you pre-operatively to strengthen your muscles to prepare your body for surgery. Physical Therapists can also provide wellness evaluations to identify any risk factors for injuries and to provide your body with a “tune up”.

What is the process to receive Physical Therapy?

Most commonly you will be examined by your medical doctor (PCP, orthopedic, neurologist, podiatrist, etc) who will give you a prescription for Physical Therapy. As Doctors of Physical Therapy in New York, we are able to provide Physical Therapy treatment Direct Access (without a prescription) for 10 visits or 30 days, whichever comes first. After that time you must obtain a prescription from a physician.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring your driver's license, insurance card, Physical Therapy prescription obtained from your medical doctor, and any imaging reports (MRI, xray, CT scan, etc).

What happens during the first session?

The Doctor of Physical Therapy will evaluate your posture, range of motion, strength, gait (walking), as appropriate, to determine any deficits.  Goals will be established with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.

How long are sessions?

The initial evaluation is generally 45 minutes-1 hour and subsequent sessions are 45 minutes.

What will I be doing in Physical Therapy?

During your session you will engage in exercises geared towards achieving the goals established with your Physical Therapist at the initial evaluation.  Your Physical Therapist may also perform manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, stretching, Kinesio Taping, etc to facilitate your treatment.

How should I dress for Physical Therapy sessions?

Please dress in comfortable clothing that you will easily be able to exercise in and expose the parts of the body that are being worked on (IE: if coming in for a knee condition, please wear shorts or loose pants where we can physically see your knee).

Is Physical Therapy painful?

Depending on your diagnosis, Physical Therapy treatment may be uncomfortable. Your Physical Therapist will work with you to determine your tolerance to certain interventions to make sure you have a comfortable session with minimal to no pain. You may also experience muscle soreness equivalent to the day after going to the gym.