22 Sep Does PT Hurt? And other PT FAQs
We know that physical therapy can be intimidating, especially after injury or surgery. Knowing what to expect before your first appointment can reduce anxiety and help you feel more comfortable. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions we hear:
Do I need a doctor’s referral? In Indiana, you can schedule your first PT appointment without a doctor’s referral, depending on your insurance. Often, you have 64 days before a referral is necessary. You can talk with our front desk team if you have questions regarding a referral.
Will PT hurt? The answer is -mostly- no. We typically treat patients using a blend of manual (hands on) therapy and specialized exercises, both in the clinic and with a Home Exercise Program. You may experience some discomfort, but our PTs work with you to ensure that you are making progress while staying comfortable. “No pain, no gain” does not apply in physical therapy.
Does insurance cover PT? Depending on both the practice and your insurance coverage, PT is often covered by insurance. At Body One, we take most insurance and to get the most current information, you can contact our front desk or verify benefits with your insurance provider.
What is the first appointment like? Your first appointment is your initial evaluation. You’ll meet your provider, discuss your symptoms, concerns, and goals, and your PT will perform a thorough physical evaluation. They will then create a custom treatment plan, which will include in-clinic visits and a home exercise program.
How long will I need PT? It depends on your condition and on you. Everyone is different, and if you faithfully work on your at-home exercises, eat nutritious food, and get good sleep, your results will likely be better than if you skip exercises, eat junk food, and get by on only 4-5 hours of sleep a night. Your PT will design a program for you based on your unique needs. The average PT course is six weeks.
Your physical therapist isn’t just a medical provider, but also an expert resource. You’ll work with your PT to return to your sports, activities, job, and life and reduce your risk of future injury. If you have a question we didn’t cover, message us at info@bodyonept.com!
If you want to see the difference that great PT can make, in a comfortable patient-focused environment, schedule your appointment today. We have two locations in North Indy: North Meridian and Zionsville. We’ll get you started in the right direction!
