Frequently Asked Questions
General Physical Therapy Questions
What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy is a healthcare service focused on improving movement, reducing pain, and restoring physical function. It uses a combination of exercise, hands-on techniques, and movement training to help individuals recover from injury, surgery, or movement limitations and return to daily activities safely.
How can physical therapy help me?
Physical therapy can help reduce pain, improve mobility, increase strength, and restore movement quality. It can also help prevent future injury by addressing underlying movement patterns and physical limitations that may contribute to pain or dysfunction.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to start physical therapy?
In many cases, patients can begin physical therapy without a physician referral, depending on state regulations and insurance requirements. Some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so we recommend checking with your insurance provider if you have questions.
How long does a physical therapy session last?
Physical therapy sessions typically last between 45 and 60 minutes. Session length may vary depending on your condition, treatment plan, and individual needs.
How many visits will I need?
The number of physical therapy visits varies based on your condition, goals, and how your body responds to treatment. Some people notice improvement in just a few visits, while others may benefit from a longer course of care. Your physical therapist will discuss expectations and progress with you along the way.
What conditions do you treat?
Physical therapy can help with a wide range of conditions, including joint and muscle injuries, post-surgical recovery, sports-related injuries, chronic pain, balance and mobility concerns, and work-related injuries. Treatment is always tailored to the individual and their specific needs.
Questions about Appointments & Your First Visit
What can I expect during my first physical therapy visit?
Your first visit typically includes an evaluation to better understand your movement, symptoms, and goals. Your physical therapist will review your health history, assess strength and mobility, and discuss a plan of care tailored to your needs. Initial treatment may begin during this visit when appropriate.
What should I wear to my appointment?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. Athletic or loose-fitting clothing and supportive footwear are often helpful, depending on the area being treated.
How often will I need to come in?
Visit frequency varies based on your condition, goals, and treatment plan. Some patients attend sessions multiple times per week, while others may come in less frequently. Your physical therapist will discuss recommended frequency and adjust it as you progress.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
For your first visit, please bring any relevant medical or surgical information, your insurance information if applicable, and comfortable clothing. If you have questions before your appointment, our team is happy to help.
What happens if I miss or need to cancel an appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, we ask that you notify us as soon as possible. This helps us accommodate other patients and keep scheduling running smoothly. Specific cancellation policies can be discussed when scheduling.
Questions About Treatment & Our Care Approach
Will I work one-on-one with my physical therapist?
Care at Greives Rehab & Performance is focused on individualized treatment. Sessions are designed to provide dedicated attention and guidance from your physical therapist, with treatment tailored to your specific needs and goals.
What types of treatments do you use?
Physical therapy treatment may include therapeutic exercise, movement training, hands-on techniques, and patient education. Treatment plans are customized based on your condition, goals, and how your body responds to care.
Do you use hands-on manual therapy?
Yes, hands-on manual therapy may be used as part of your treatment plan when appropriate. Manual therapy techniques can help improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support overall movement quality.
How is your approach different from other physical therapy clinics?
Our approach emphasizes individualized care, hands-on treatment, and movement-focused rehabilitation. We aim to address not only symptoms, but also the movement patterns and limitations that may contribute to injury or discomfort.
Do you treat chronic pain as well as new injuries?
Yes, physical therapy can be beneficial for both chronic pain and recent injuries. Treatment focuses on understanding contributing factors, improving movement, and supporting long-term function regardless of how long symptoms have been present.
Questions About Sports, Activity, & Performance
Do you treat sports injuries?
Yes, physical therapy can help treat a wide range of sports-related injuries. Care focuses on restoring movement, strength, and control to support recovery and a safe return to activity.
Can physical therapy help me return to sport safely?
Physical therapy can help guide a gradual return to sport by improving strength, mobility, and movement mechanics. Treatment is designed to support safe progression while reducing the risk of re-injury.
Do you work with recreational athletes?
Yes, physical therapy is beneficial for athletes of all levels, including recreational and active individuals. Treatment plans are tailored to activity demands, goals, and overall movement needs.
Can physical therapy help prevent future injuries?
Physical therapy can help reduce injury risk by identifying movement limitations, strength imbalances, and habits that may contribute to injury. Treatment often includes education and exercises designed to support long-term movement health.
Do you offer wellness or performance-focused programs?
Wellness and performance-focused services may be available to support strength, movement efficiency, and injury prevention. These programs are designed to help individuals stay active and maintain long-term physical health.
Questions About Post-Surgical & Injury Recovery
When should I start physical therapy after surgery?
The timing of physical therapy after surgery varies depending on the procedure and your surgeon’s recommendations. In many cases, physical therapy begins shortly after surgery, but your physical therapist will follow appropriate guidelines and discuss timing with you.
Do you follow my surgeon’s protocol?
Yes, post-surgical rehabilitation is guided by your surgeon’s protocol when one is provided. Treatment is progressed carefully and adjusted based on your recovery, movement, and individual needs.
Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery?
In some cases, physical therapy may help improve movement, strength, and function enough to delay or avoid surgery. While this depends on the condition, physical therapy is often recommended as a conservative treatment option before considering surgical intervention.
How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery, individual health factors, and treatment goals. Some people progress quickly, while others require a longer course of rehabilitation. Your physical therapist will monitor progress and adjust care accordingly.
Questions About Balance, Mobility, & Aging
Can physical therapy help with balance problems?
Yes, physical therapy can help address balance issues by improving strength, coordination, and movement control. Treatment is tailored to individual needs and focuses on supporting safe and confident movement.
Do you offer fall prevention programs?
Fall prevention services may be available to help reduce fall risk and improve stability. These programs often focus on balance training, strength development, and functional movement for daily activities.
Is physical therapy helpful for older adults?
Yes, physical therapy can be very beneficial for older adults. It can help support mobility, balance, strength, and independence, making everyday activities safer and more comfortable.
Can physical therapy improve walking or mobility?
Physical therapy can help improve walking and overall mobility by addressing strength imbalances, movement patterns, and coordination. Gait and mobility training is designed to support efficient, confident movement in daily life.