FAQs

All patients receive hands-on manual therapy from a Doctor of Physical Therapy such as therapeutic massage, joint and spine mobilizations, myofascial release, mobilization with movement (MWM) techniques, Graston and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), as well as many other advanced techniques.

Cupping, Blood Flow Restriction (BFR), Dry Needling (NC only), and Kinesio Taping® techniques may also be used to improve strength, decrease pain and promote healing while performing home, work, and athletic activities.

Patients are prescribed specific therapeutic exercises that are tailored to meet their functional goals. Other treatments may include the use of modalities such as Normatech compression, moist heat, cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, TENS, and mechanical traction.

In addition to manual techniques and modalities, patients play an active role in their treatment. You’ll be instructed in a proper home exercise program to maximize strength, flexibility, and function.

In 2006, New York state passed a law introducing “Direct Access” to physical therapy. This means that patients may receive a physical therapy evaluation and 10 treatments (or up to 30 days of treatment) of physical therapy without a referral. All treatment under Direct Access is covered by insurance. Workers’ Compensation and No-Fault still require a referral from your physician.

North Carolina is one of 20 states that allow patients total, unrestricted access to a physical therapist. According to state law, no type of physician referral is required for a physical therapist to evaluate or treat a patient.

Bring your ID, insurance information and reports of any medical tests performed. Also bring in your completed New Patient forms. If you have a physician’s referral or prescription, please bring it as well.*

*In case of Workers’ Comp or No-Fault case, you must bring your physician’s referral.

Patients are most comfortable in loose-fitting clothing and sneakers. We ask that we be able to examine the body part being treated. For example, if your knee is being examined, please bring a pair of shorts or sweatpants. Shoulder or neck examinations require a tank top or sports bra.

Your initial visit will last approximately one hour. This hour is dedicated to the examination and treatment of your pain, as well as the instruction of your home exercise program. Each subsequent visit may last up to two hours, depending on your functional status.

Prescribed programs are most effective when administered 2 to 3 times a week, but most often this will depend on the severity, type, and chronicity of the condition. Each patient’s plan of care is prescribed by the examining Doctor of Physical Therapy along with the referring physician or surgeon. If you are examined without a referral—through Direct Access—you will be prescribed physical therapy based on the examination administered by the Doctor of Physical Therapy.

We encourage patients to continue with the evaluating Doctor of Physical Therapy. However, if there’s a schedule conflict, you may see another doctor.

We adhere to all state and federal guidelines regarding issues of patient confidentiality.

Patients are constantly re-evaluated to ensure maximum therapeutic benefits. You will be given a progress note to take to the appointment with your physician and/or surgeon.