Frequently Asked Questions
What makes our facility different than other Physical Therapy clinics in the area?
- Hands on treatment during EVERY visit
- Personalized care for every patient
- Manual therapy, therapeutic exercises and modalities with high focus on patient education
- Highly educated professional PTs and support staff
- Beautiful clinic with state of the art equipment
- Locations near major freeways with ample parking
Function Fit Rehab, you will receive hands on treatment by a licensed therapist on every visit. We offer personalized care for every patient including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises and modalities with a high focus on patient education.
What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy refers to hands-on techniques used to help assess, diagnose and treat certain ailments. There are many different types of manual therapy techniques used. The type of manual therapy used is dependent on the training of the therapist and his/her assessment of what is the most beneficial for the patient. The therapists will also explain the purpose of each technique and are always open to any questions.
What should I expect during the first visit?
When you first arrive at the clinic, have your insurance card and driver’s license available for photocopy. You will also need to give us your prescription for physical therapy from your doctor. Paperwork will then be given to you to fill out. It is recommended that you come in 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment to complete the paperwork. You can also download the paperwork to complete ahead of time.
After the paperwork is complete, you will be given a tour of our facility. An initial evaluation to help determine causes of symptoms/dysfunction will be performed and a treatment plan made. The initial evaluation is comprised of the following components:
- Subjective: The physical therapist will discuss with you your medical history; symptoms, problems or complaints; pain intensity, aggravating or easing factors; what activities in your daily life are affected by your complaints/problems; any tests, medications or procedures performed and what your goals are for physical therapy.
- Objective Measurements: The physical therapist will make observations and take measurements.
- Postural Assessment: Positions of joints, symmetry and muscle mass are assessed.
- Movement Assessment: The physical therapist may examine the biomechanics of certain activities such as walking, lifting, reaching up to determine whether the movements can be performed more efficiently and with less pain.
- Range of Motion: Joints will be moved around to see quality and quantity of movement and if there is pain.
- Strength: The physical therapist will check for weakness, pain and quality of muscle contraction.
- Special Tests: These are used to confirm or rule out certain physical therapy diagnoses.
- Palpation: Touch is used to determine tenderness, temperature, soft tissue integrity, swelling, sensitivity etc.
- Neurological Tests: Tests like reflexes, sensation and strength testing may be used to determine if the nerves are being affected or contributing to your symptoms.
- Assessment: The physical therapist will discuss with you the findings of the evaluation and educate you on the sources of the problem. Goals of therapy will be discussed as well has a treatment plan and rehabilitation program. Each treatment usually comprises of manual therapy treatment, one on one with the physical therapist; an exercise program for the clinic and at home and modalities as necessary.
- Plan: The physical therapist will discuss with you how many visits you will require and how long you should expect to be in physical therapy to reach maximal function. Together, you will create a schedule that is most convenient for you.
What should I wear?
Loose comfortable clothing should be worn so that the areas being assessed are easily exposed for examination. Comfortable shoes are also recommended. Gowns are also available for your convenience.
How long will each treatment last?
Each treatment lasts for 50-75 minutes and involves one-on-one manual therapy treatment with the physical therapist, therapeutic exercise performed at the clinic to ensure proper mechanics and techniques and usually ends with modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, ice or heat pack. It is important to perform home exercises as prescribed by the physical therapist outside of the clinic.
Will I have to do exercises?
Therapeutic exercise is a very important component of your rehabilitation program. Compliance with a home exercise program will facilitate recovery, makes changes from physical therapy more permanent and help prevent risk of re-injury. The exercises always performed at the clinic first before it is prescribed for your home program to make sure it is done correctly. A hand out will be given with diagrams to help you remember your home program.
Will I have the same therapist each time I come?
We prefer that each patient remains with the same therapist for each visit so that the physical therapist can follow you through the full course of treatment and be the primary contact for communication with other health care providers including your doctor. On occasion, you may see another therapist if there is a conflict in schedules.
Do I need to see a doctor before I go to physical therapy?
You are welcome to schedule a free consultation without a prescription to discuss any problems you may have and how we may help you.
How many visits will I need?
The number of visits is dependent on the individual, the diagnosis, the severity of symptoms, medical history, prior level of function etc and can range from a few visits to a few months. The physical therapist will discuss with you how many visits you will require and how long you should expect to be in physical therapy to reach maximal function.
How much will I have to pay for physical therapy?
The amount paid out of pocket depends on individual insurance plans and coverage. We will gladly verify your insurance and explain your benefits and financial responsibility before your first visit. For those patients without coverage options, discounted cash rates are available, and vary depending on diagnosis and treatment.