1. What can physical therapy do for me?
Physical therapists are found in all areas of medicine. Physical therapy relieves pain of musculo-skeletal origin (chronic low back and neck pain), facilitates rehabilitation after trauma or surgery (joint replacements, motor vehicle accidents, manages neurological deficits (strokes, brain injury), helps to restore functional strength, coordination, and balance, (weakness) and preserves the longevity of joint mobility (arthritis). These are just some of the ways physical therapy can help keep you moving.
2. What is an orthopedic manual therapist?
In addition to treating the more common orthopedic conditions, manual therapists are trained at tracking down the origins of chronic pain. They do this by using their hands as the primary diagnostic and treatment tool. This form of therapy is unique and proven very effective.
3. Is physical therapy paid for by my insurance?
Most insurance policies allow for physical therapy benefits. Our office will check for you.
4. What is the difference between physical therapy and chiropractic?
Despite the popular and understandable perception, physical therapy and chiropractic are very different and should not be confused. Physical therapy is a form of mainstream medicine which requires advanced medical education and training. The profession is dedicated to the preserrvation of musculo-skeletal function and the relief of pain.
To the best of my knowledge, chiropractic asserts that mal-alignment of the spinal column leads to “dis-ease” and correction of these by performing “adjustments” will correct the ailment. Over time, chiropractic has incorporated many of the same modalities that traditionally fell under the domain of physical therapy. This can add to the confusion between the two professions.
Physical therapists perform “mobilizations and manipulations” while chiropractors perform “adjustments.” Despite their seeming similarity, these treatments differ drastically in technique, risk, application and objectives.
5. Does physical therapy hurt?
That depends. Post surgical rehabilitation of a knee can require moments of discomfort if there is a build up of scar tissue. Most treatments however relieve symptoms rather than irritate. A temporary soreness often follows a successful treatment as the body adapts to the changes made in therapy.
6. What is unique about Bastian Physical Therapy?
One on one personalized care that offers “one stop shopping” to keep your body in optimal condition and feeling great. The clinic is modern, spacious, smartly landscaped and comfortably appointed, putting you at ease the moment you step through the gate.
7. How long can I expect to be in PT?
That depends on your goals, your condition, and often, your insurance benefits. Chronic pain may take longer to resolve as the origins are often “hidden” and difficult to change. One can expect, however, to notice an improvement in your symptoms almost immediately.
8. How long does each appointment take?
Each appointment is catered to the person and the condition being treated. Most appointments last approximately
1 - 1 1/4 hours.
9. What types of conditions do you treat?
Click here to see what physical therapy conditions I treat.
10. Which insurance companies are you affiliated with?
Click here to see a list of insurance companies with whom we are affiliated.
11. Do I need a physician’s referral to make an appointment?
No. I am licensed to treat without a referral (insurance companies may have separate requirements). If treatment progresses beyond 30 days, law requires intervention by an MD (or equivalent medical referral) to continue therapy. Our office will facilitate this process by establishing a working relationship with your physician and insurance company.
12. How does physical therapy differ from personal training?
Personal trainers focus on the overall conditioning and fitness of an individual. They help with basic strength, flexibility, and endurance training. They do not have medical training and cannot diagnose or treat injuries.
Physical therapists diagnose and treat musculo-skeletal disorders, often using specific and adaptive exercises as a means to restore function. A physical therapist is trained to do personal training whereas a personal trainer cannot perform physical therapy.