Frequently Asked Questions

What are physical therapists?

Do I need authorization from my doctor to be seen by a physical therapist?

What should I expect from my first visit?

What should I wear to my first visit?

How often will I need physical therapy treatments?

Will my physical therapist communicate with my referring practitioner?

 

What are physical therapists?

Physical therapists are licensed allied health professionals who work to restore maximum function to people who have sustained disabilities, impairments or limitations in movement as the result of an injury, pathology, surgery or disease entity. Physical therapists examine, evaluate, diagnosis, develop treatment plans and goals, and provide prognoses for each individual patient.

At Cape Ann Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy Center, we use a wide variety of modalities such as joint and soft tissue mobilization techniques, therapeutic exercises, ultrasound, electric stimulation, neuromuscular re-education, heat, cold, patient education, and home exercise prescriptions for the purposes of decreasing pain, improving movement and restoring the patient’s prior functional abilities.

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Do I need authorization from my doctor to be seen by a physical therapist?

Massachusetts is a direct access state which means that legally a physical therapist can examine and treat a patient without a physician’s authorization. However, some insurance companies do require a referral or prescription from a physician for physical therapy services. Check with your insurance company or call our office and one of our administrative staff will assist you regarding authorization if needed.

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What should I expect from my first visit?

You will be asked to fill out a health history form. One of our physical therapists will then ask you questions about your condition and perform a thorough musculoskeletal initial examination. Upon completion of the examination, your physical therapist will discuss your evaluation, diagnosis, goals, and treatment plan with you.

What should I wear to my first visit?

We provide patient gowns and shorts. If you would prefer to wear your own clothing, bring or wear a garment that will allow the physical therapist to thoroughly examine the part of your body that is impaired. For example, for the knee/foot/lower back/hip: wear or bring shorts. For the upper extremity/elbow/shoulder/neck: tank top or sports bra for women.

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How often will I need physical therapy treatments?

Once your initial examination is complete, your therapist will devise a treatment plan that will be discussed with you. At that time, frequency of visits will be determined and modified as needed.

Will my physical therapist communicate with my referring practitioner?

Yes. A detailed letter of your initial examination, including your treatment plan, will be sent to your referring practitioner (e.g. physician, dentist, osteopath, nurse practitioner, surgeon), as well as progress reports and a discharge summary.

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