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Swift Rehabilitation Inc. provides physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech & language services. Our licensed and compassionate team members are here to support you and your family through the process. Call us to book your free consultation today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Your First Visit Video

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During your first appointment at physical therapy, you will undergo a structured initial evaluation process. Here’s what you should expect:

  • Arrival and Paperwork: Ensure you arrive with your completed forms, which are available for download on our website under the ‘paperwork’ or ‘forms’ section.
  • Referral and Insurance: Present your physical therapy referral if you have one (not always necessary; please confirm when booking your appointment). We will also make a copy of your insurance card.
  • Evaluation by the Therapist: You will meet with the therapist for an initial evaluation where the following will be discussed:
    • Medical History and Current Issues: Details about your medical history, current complaints, pain intensity, what increases or decreases your pain, and how your issues affect your daily activities.
    • Goals for Therapy: What you aim to achieve through physical therapy.
    • Medication and Previous Tests: Any relevant medications, tests, and medical procedures you have undergone.
  • Objective Assessment: The therapist will conduct a thorough assessment that may include:
    • Palpation: Examining the affected area to assess for tenderness, swelling, and other tissue characteristics.
    • Range of Motion (ROM): Assessing the movement quality and any limitations.
    • Muscle Testing: Evaluating muscle strength and quality of muscle contraction, including pain presence and strength grading.
    • Neurological Screening: Checking nerve-muscle communication and sensory responses such as touch, pain, or temperature, along with reflex testing.
    • Special Tests: Performing specific tests to diagnose or rule out additional issues.
    • Posture Assessment: Analyzing the alignment of joints in relation to each other and ideal standards.
  • Treatment Planning: Post-evaluation, the therapist will compile a list of issues and propose a tailored treatment plan. This plan includes the frequency of therapy sessions, duration of therapy, home exercises, patient education, short-term and long-term goals, and expected outcomes post-therapy. The plan is developed considering inputs from you, your therapist, and your doctor.

Please remember to bring your physical therapy referral from your doctor, as well as your payment information. If your insurance is covering the cost, don’t forget to bring your insurance card. For Workers’ Compensation cases, bring your claim number and your case manager’s contact details. If you are covered by auto insurance or an attorney lien, please bring this information with you as well.

We recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing that allows us to easily access and evaluate the area needing treatment. For example, if you have a knee issue, wearing shorts would be ideal. For shoulder concerns, a tank top would be suitable. If you’re dealing with low back problems, opt for loose-fitting pants and a shirt for a more thorough examination.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Treatment sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes per visit.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The number of visits varies greatly. Some patients may only need one visit, while others may require months of care. It depends on factors such as your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, and your medical history. You will be re-evaluated monthly, and we will provide a progress report with our recommendations whenever you see your doctor.

 
 
 
 
 
 

With over half of all Americans experiencing pain, as highlighted by an ABC News/Stanford study, the need for effective treatment is clear. Physical therapists are uniquely qualified not just to address pain but also its underlying causes. They specialize in treating movement and neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, often associated with pain, and can correct these disorders to alleviate pain.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in treating movement and neuro-musculoskeletal disorders. They help patients with various conditions, such as orthopedic issues, injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation, to reduce pain and regain function. Physical therapists also assist patients recovering from strokes to regain mobility and independence. Additionally, they focus on preventing injuries and improving movement through therapeutic exercise, functional training, and patient education. Physical therapists work in various settings, including industrial workplaces, sports facilities, and fitness clubs, to promote safe movement and prevent overuse injuries. They use a range of treatments, including exercise, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound and hot packs. Direct access to physical therapy is available in all 50 states, allowing patients to seek treatment without a physician’s referral in many cases.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Doctors refer patients to physical therapy when they have a movement dysfunction that causes pain or limits their daily activities. Physical therapists specialize in treating these dysfunctions and associated pains, restoring normal movement and function.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

When deciding between a physical therapist (PT) working for a physician and one who owns a private practice, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Studies have shown that patients attending physician-owned physical therapy practices tend to receive more treatments, leading to higher costs. Additionally, these clinics may use physical therapy assistants instead of physical therapists, potentially impacting the quality of care.

On the other hand, therapists in private practices often provide more personalized care, with the same therapist managing your case from start to finish. Research suggests that therapists practicing through direct access (where patients can seek therapy without a physician referral) believe this approach benefits both them and their patients.

In summary, choosing a private practice physical therapist can offer you high-quality, cost-effective care with a focus on personalized treatment and continuity of care.

 
 
 
 
 

Typically, health insurance will cover the cost of your treatment. Please click on the insurance link above for a summary of accepted insurances. Our receptionist can also help clarify your insurance coverage, so be sure to speak with them.

 
 
 

You will be evaluated and treated by one of our licensed and highly trained physical therapists. Unlike clinics where you may see different therapists each visit, we prioritize developing a one-on-one relationship with you to ensure continuity of care. This allows your therapist to understand your specific needs and work closely with you to facilitate a faster recovery.

 
 
 

Yes, physical therapy has several specialized areas, including:

1. Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Focuses on treating musculoskeletal conditions like post-surgical rehabilitation, arthritis, and injuries to muscles, bones, and joints.

2. Manual Therapy: Involves hands-on techniques to treat movement dysfunctions, including mobilizations, myofascial release, and joint mobilization.

3. Geriatric Physical Therapy: Specializes in the rehabilitation of seniors, addressing age-related challenges like balance issues and loss of strength.

4. Sports Rehabilitation: Focuses on assisting athletes in recovering from injuries and surgeries, using sport-specific programs for retraining.

5. Fitness and Wellness: Helps with fitness needs, weight management, osteoporosis, diabetes management, and fall prevention.

6. Hand Therapy: Specializes in treating hand and wrist conditions, often requiring additional training and certification.

7. Women’s Health: Focuses on women’s issues like pregnancy problems, pelvic pain, and incontinence.

8. Industrial Rehabilitation: Helps with on-the-job injuries, evaluating work tasks, and redesigning workflows to prevent injuries.

9. Pediatric Physical Therapy: Specializes in treating children with developmental disorders, neurological issues, and orthopedic problems.

10. Aquatic Physical Therapy: Uses water properties to assist in rehabilitation, beneficial for chronic pain and limited weight-bearing patients.

11. Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Assists patients with heart and lung conditions, providing exercise programs and breathing techniques.

12. Neurological Rehabilitation: Focuses on patients with neurological conditions like spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and strokes.

13. Balance, Dizziness, and Vertigo Rehabilitation: Specializes in treating dizziness and vertigo issues, providing balance exercises and sensory techniques.

14. Amputee Rehabilitation: Focuses on the rehabilitation of amputees, providing training in using prosthetic limbs and assistive devices.

15. Wound Care: Specializes in treating wounds, using techniques like debridement and special dressings to promote healing.

16. Lymphedema Rehabilitation: Focuses on treating lymphedema, a condition causing painful swelling due to damaged lymph drainage.

17. Osteoporosis Rehabilitation and Prevention: Specializes in evaluating and treating patients with osteoporosis, designing specialized exercise programs to prevent fractures.

Pain relief is often a key goal in physical therapy, and various techniques like hands-on therapy, modalities (e.g., ultrasound, electrical stimulation), and movement are used to achieve this. While some treatments may cause discomfort, such as regaining range of motion after surgery, your therapist will use a range of methods to manage pain and improve your mobility. It’s important to communicate any pain intensity, frequency, and duration to your therapist so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Physical therapy involves various treatment interventions tailored to individual needs. Some common treatments include:

1. Active Range of Motion (AROM): Patient moves a body part through range of motion against gravity.

2. Active Assistive Range of Motion (AAROM): Therapist-assisted active range of motion.

3. Stationary Bicycle: Used for improving strength, range of motion, and cardiovascular endurance.

4. Gait or Walking Training: Analysis and correction of walking problems.

5. Isometrics: Muscle contraction without joint movement for strengthening.

6. Isotonics: Muscle contraction through the range of motion with resistance.

7. Soft Tissue Mobilization: Therapeutic massage to relax muscles, reduce swelling, and relieve pain.

8. Mobilization: Hands-on procedures to increase soft tissue or joint mobility.

9. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF): Manual resisted exercises in diagonal patterns to mimic functional movements.

10. Posture Training: Instruction in correct biomechanical alignment to reduce strain on muscles and joints.

11. Progressive Resistive Exercises (PRE): Exercises with gradually increasing resistance for muscle reeducation and strengthening.

12. Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Movement of body part through range of motion without muscle use.

13. Stretching/Flexibility Exercise: Exercise to lengthen muscles or soft tissue.

14. Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy: Use of cold to reduce swelling and pain.

15. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES): Electrical stimulation to improve strength and decrease pain and swelling.

16. Neck Traction: Gentle pull on the neck to relieve pain and muscle spasm.

17. Heat: Application to decrease chronic pain and muscle relaxation.

18. Iontophoresis: Use of electrical charge to propel medications through the skin for conditions like bursitis.

19. Pelvic Traction: Pull on the lumbar spine to relieve low back pain and muscle spasm.

20. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): Use of low voltage to control pain.

21. Ultrasound: Use of high-frequency sound waves to promote healing.

22. Whirlpool: Immersion in water with massaging motion for pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Massage may be incorporated into your treatment as part of the rehabilitation process. Therapists use various techniques to aid recovery, including deep tissue methods. Massage is often used to improve venous return from swollen areas, relax tight muscles, or alleviate pain. It’s important to note that, contrary to common belief, massage does not actually increase circulation.

If you experience a flare-up or exacerbation of your symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us. We may recommend scheduling another visit, consulting with your doctor, or making adjustments to your daily activities or exercise regimen.

In most instances, you have the freedom to select any physical therapy clinic. Our practice is affiliated with numerous insurance plans. For further clarification, feel free to contact us, and we’ll strive to address all your inquiries.

Direct access to physical therapy is available in all 50 states. If you’re not experiencing substantial improvement within 30 days, your therapist may refer you back to your physician. Starting with a physical therapist can be cost-effective and safe.

In many states, physical therapists are not authorized to provide medical diagnoses. This responsibility typically lies with your physician. While therapists play a crucial role in your medical care, they usually do not offer medical diagnoses.

Billing for physical therapy is similar to what you experience at your doctor’s office. When you receive treatment, the physical therapist bills your insurance, Workers’ Comp, or you directly using Common Procedure Terminology (CPT) codes. The payer processes the information, pays according to a fee schedule, and sends an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to you and the clinic. You’re expected to pay any remaining balance. The process typically takes 60 days, but delays can occur.

After physical therapy, some patients may need to continue with home exercises, while others may opt for a gym program. Some will return to normal daily activities. Communicate your goals to your therapist for a custom program.

Yes, physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are licensed by their respective states.

When choosing a physical therapy clinic, consider the following factors:

  • Licensing: Ensure the therapists are licensed in your state.
  • Initial Assessment: The first visit should include a comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
  • Goal Setting: Discuss your goals with the therapist during the initial visit.
  • Treatment Options: The clinic should offer a variety of techniques including hands-on therapy, exercises, and modalities like heat or ultrasound.
  • Insurance Coverage: Check if they accept your insurance or offer alternative payment options.
  • Convenience: Choose a clinic that is conveniently located to minimize travel time.
  • Operating Hours: Consider the clinic’s hours of operation and how they fit into your schedule.
  • Patient Satisfaction: Ask if they can provide satisfaction survey results.
  • Therapist Involvement: Ensure that the therapist provides the treatment rather than delegating it to others.
  • Interview: Consider interviewing the therapist before starting treatment.
  • Recommendations: Seek recommendations from family and friends.

The “Good Faith Estimate” is a right given to patients to understand the estimated costs of their medical care. Health care providers must provide this estimate for non-emergency items or services, including related costs like tests, drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. Patients should receive this estimate in writing at least 1 business day before the service or item is provided. If the final bill is at least $400 more than the estimate, patients can dispute the bill. This measure helps patients understand and plan for their medical expenses.

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