Physical Therapy FAQ
What is a Physical Therapist?
Professional education prepares physical therapists to be autonomous practitioners. Physical a
Therapists have graduated from an accredited, university-level Physical Therapy program. There
are variations with programs to include Bachelors/Baccalaureate, Masters, and Doctorate entry
qualifications. All licensed Physical Therapists must pass the National Physical Therapist
Examination and must be licensed by the State Board of Physical Therapy.
How can a Physical Therapist help me?
A physical therapist can help you restore and improve your motion to achieve
long—term quality of life, in many cases without surgery or prescription medication.
Please visit www.moveforwardpt.com for information about how physical
Therapy can bring motion to your life. A Physical Therapist will develop a plan of care to help you reach
appropriate goals for you.
What can I expect from a Physical Therapist? What is done on the first visit?
Your physical therapist will examine you and develop a plan of care using a variety
of treatment techniques that can help you move, reduce pain, restore function,
and prevent disability. Your physical therapist can also help prevent loss
of mobility and motion by developing a fitness- and wel|ness—oriented program
tailored to your specific needs.
Do I need a prescription from my doctor for Physical Therapy?
In the state of Texas, we are required by law to have a prescription for Physical Therapy treatment.
Without a prescription, we can only perform an evaluation, not treatment. Be sure to bring the
prescription with you on your first visit if your physician’s office has not already sent the referral.
What should I wear?
Please wear or bring with you something comfortable to Physical Therapy. The therapist needs to be
able to easily access the injured area. Attire should be appropriate for performing specific exercises.
How often do I attend Physical Therapy?
The frequency will depend on the physician's prescription and the plan developed by the Physical
Therapist during your initial evaluation. lvlost patients attend therapy 2-3 times per week. Of course,
the frequency will also depend on your injury and progression.
How long are the appointments? Do I need to schedule appointments in advance?
Your first appointment will last 1 to 1 2/2 hours. You will need to schedule all appointment in advance
in order to accommodate your needs at our facility.
How much does Physical Therapy cost?
We will contact the insurance company to determine benefits and discuss the options we offer prior to
your first appointment. Each insurance plan is different, it may vary from plan to plan with deductible,
co-pay, or contracted rate. Each plan may also vary depending on how claims are processed. Please call
our Home Office (972-745-7500) and/or your insurance with further questions as benefits depend on
your specific insurance plan. We don't want insurance or lack of insurance to hinder the treatment
process. We do offer Healthy Savings or payment plans if you have no insurance or a high deductible.
Learn more about Healthy Savings by visiting us at carenow.com.
Will it hurt or be uncomfortable?
We are here to make you feel better, not worse. The first time you see your therapist, you will be asked
to perform various movements for a thorough evaluation. Some of the movements may be
uncomfortable, but they are necessary to develop a treatment plan specifically for you. It may take 3-4
sessions before you feel any improvement or difference.
About your  Physical Therapist
■ Physical therapists can help you improve your mobility and quality of life
without surgery or prescription drugs, in many cases.
■ Physical therapists are trusted health care professionals who examine, diagnose, and then prevent
or treat conditions that limit the body’s ability to move and function in daily life.
■ Today's physical therapist is required to complete a graduate degree — either a masters or a clinical doctorate -- from an accredited physical therapist
program before taking the national licensure examination that allows him or her to practice.
■ Physical therapists can teach you how to prevent or manage a condition so
that you will achieve long-term health benefits.
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