We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move around easily for your appointments. Athletic wear, workout attire, and gym shoes will work well.
You can expect your first visit to last for about 60 minutes. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our Patient Care Coordinator who will ask to see your photo ID, insurance card, and any other paperwork that you brought with you. If you were unable to complete the new patient forms via the portal, your PCC will provide those to you at this time to complete prior to meeting with your therapist. Once you are checked in for your visit, your therapist will take you to a private exam room where they will complete a comprehensive evaluation as well as review your medical history, perform diagnostic testing, and speak with you to learn more about your condition.
Not always! You can learn more about Direct Access Physical Therapy by clicking here: https://phoenixphysicaltherapy.com/services/physical-therapy/direct-access-physical-therapy/
Please bring your doctor’s referral (if you have one), your ID, insurance cards, and any test results pertinent to your condition.
Please arrive 15 minutes early for your first visit to ensure your paperwork is complete, and the Patient Care Coordinator can properly provide you with any information you may need regarding your therapy program.
Appointments will last between 30-60 minutes depending on your condition. Ask your therapist for more specific timing after your initial evaluation.
It is typically recommended you attend therapy sessions 2-3 times a week, but your therapist will create a personal plan for you based on your evaluation.
Just call the clinic! Our Patient Care Coordinators are happy to reschedule your appointment. (Please note we do have a 24-hour cancellation policy that can be reviewed at your clinic’s front desk.)
Our Patient Care Coordinators are ready to help you schedule your appointments. You can call the clinic to stop by the front desk before or after your therapy session.
Physical therapy should challenge you, but it should not cause sharp or worsening pain. You will likely feel temporary, manageable discomfort, muscle fatigue, or mild soreness as your muscles adapt and heal. Always tell your therapist about any new or worsening pain.
Yes, almost always. Your therapist will assign a “home exercise program” (HEP). Consistently doing these prescribed movements on your own is critical to recovering faster and preventing setbacks.
This will depend on your condition. Most people begin to feel noticeable relief, like decreased pain, less swelling, or better joint mobility within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent therapy. However, full recovery typically takes 6 to 12 weeks for mild-to-moderate injuries, and 3 to 6 months following surgery.
Your therapist and your doctor will communicate throughout your time with us. They will determine how many sessions you need to get you back to doing the things you need to do and love to do.
While we accept most insurances, it is best to call the clinic nearest to you and speak with one of our Patient Care Coordinators to see if your insurance is accepted.
For those that are uninsured, we have cash payment options. Payment is set according to the complexity of your condition as determined by your therapist following evaluation. Payment is expected at the time of service.
Your Patient Care Coordinator will provide a Good Faith Estimate ahead of your first appointment, however it is best to check with your insurance company to determine your out-of-pocket expenses. You can read more about our Good Faith Estimates here: https://phoenixphysicaltherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/PHX_GFE_Web_Posting.pdf
Yes. Our Patient Care Coordinators are trained to perform insurance verifications; however, it is best to have a good understanding of your individual policy.
Yes! Physical therapy can often help you avoid or delay surgery. By addressing the root causes of pain through targeted strengthening, mobility work, and improved joint mechanics, therapy decreases the need for invasive procedures and avoids surgical risks like anesthesia complications.
Yes, physical therapy is often a critical part of recovery after surgery, helping to restore strength, improve mobility, and reduce scar tissue. It is highly recommended to start rehab under the guidance of your surgeon’s specific post-operative protocol, which typically begins a few days to two weeks post-surgery.
No. Imaging is not required to start physical therapy. Physical therapists evaluate the root cause of your pain through movement and strength testing. Often, clinical guidelines recommend conservative care (like physical therapy) before ordering expensive imaging. However, if you had imaging done, be sure to tell your therapist so they can review the findings.
Yes, we can accommodate family members to allow them to attend therapy sessions. Children under 12 must be closely supervised due to the safety of the child and other people in our clinics.
If you can call and give our team a heads-up, they will try to still accommodate your appointment. However, our schedules are booked to allow optimal attention to each patient, so your Patient Care Coordinator may elect to reschedule your appointment.
Please call the clinic and speak with your Patient Care Coordinator. They will be happy to reschedule your appointment. (Please note we do have a 24-hour cancellation policy that can be reviewed at your clinic’s front desk.)