Frequently asked questions
What should I expect from Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is intended to be a short-term form of treatment. Therapists enable patients to take ownership of their rehabilitative process. Patients participate by performing specific home exercise programs, as well as activity modification for pain and symptom management while transitioning back to their normal activities.
Typically, patients can expect to attend clinic visits anywhere between one to three times weekly depending on their condition and their post-rehabilitation goals. In most cases, patients are not seen more than eight visits. At the time of discharge, patients have become independent with their symptom and pain management and are ready to return to normal or modified activities.
What kind of qualifications do physical therapists have?
Qualifications will vary from therapist to therapist depending on their clinical and collegiate, graduate and continuing educational experiences. Prior to the mid 1990’s therapists received a 4-5 year undergraduate PT degree in the form of a Bachelor’s of Science in Physical Therapy. As the field of physical therapy evolved so did the educational requirements. All programs transitioned to post graduate professional programs conferring the degree of MPT or MSPT (Master’s of Physical Therapy or Master’s of Science in Physical Therapy). This degree required 3-4 years of undergraduate and 2-3 additional years in a professional physical therapy program. Currently, nearly all accredited physical therapy programs have further transitioned to a 3 year post graduate program which confers a DPT degree (Doctorate of Physical Therapy).
Do I need to come early?
Yes. It is important that you are present 20 minutes prior to the beginning of your first visit. This will give you enough time to fill out the paperwork required by AC Physical Therapy and your insurance company. We strive to see all patients at their given appointment time allowing your physical therapist to maximize your appointment and therapeutic outcomes.
How long will my appointment be?
The first appointment is an hour in length. Follow up appointments will be 30 minutes of one on one time with your physical therapist and often followed by 15 minutes of selected modalities.
Do I need a referral from my Doctor to have Physical Therapy treatment?
Colorado is a “Direct Access” state. This means, legally, licensed Physical Therapists can evaluate and treat patients without them being seen by a physician first. However, many insurance companies require a referral from a physician in order for outpatient physical therapy services to be covered and paid for by the insurance carrier. Therefore we recommend you check your insurance benefits prior to coming in for an evaluation by a PT without a referral.
What if I don’t have insurance?
We provide affordable physical therapy services to patients on a cash pay basis. We also accept most major credit cards.
What if I don’t get better?
Unfortunately not everyone will get better with Physical Therapy. We promise to do everything we can to help each patient achieve their goals, including referring them to other medical practitioners for different types of care when appropriate.
