Here are some facts for you to draw your own conclusions about whether you should see the physical therapist at the physician’s facility or go to the private practice physical therapist. Studies have indicated that number of treatment are higher ( the number of physical therapy visits per patient were 39%-45% higher in physician owned clinics) and the costs were higher in physician owned practices as compared to private practice physical therapists. Up to 30-40% higher per patient. (1).(3)

Another study indicates that licensed and nonlicensed providers of physical therapy spend less time with each patient at physician owned practices as compared to private physical therapy practices. (2)

1. Mitchell,J., Scott, E., Physician Ownership of Physical Therapy Services: Effects on Charges, Utilization, Profits, and Service Characteristics, Journal of American Medical Association, 1992.

2. ” Joint Ventures Among Health Care Providers in Florida, ” State of Florida Health Care Cost Containment Board, 1991.

3. Federal Office of Inspector General May 1, 2006-Report calls into question billing processes performed by non-physical therapist owned practices.

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Most of us can continue to perform tasks we need to perform at home and our jobs even with some medical issues. However, when we experience pain and limited movement this affects our ability to do tasks at home and work in a negative way.

Phyical therapists are experts in movement and function. They do not just treat people who are ill. Physical therapist can prevent injury, loss of moveemnt, and prevent surgery at times. Physical therapists can work on work sites consulting on the design of work stations to prevent injuries. Physical therapists can also consult for recreational athletes how to improve their fitness level.

Physical therapists use a variety of treatments for patients. These include therapeutic exercises, hands on manual therapy, ultrasound-a form of deep heat,electric stimulation-used to decrease pain or inflammation,moist heat, ice, patient education on how to take care of themselves, and given exercises to do at home.

Physical therapy can only be performed by a licensed physical therapist or a physical therapy assistant. a physical therapy assistant has a two year degree and is licensed and can only work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists.

Physical therapy is usually covered by most insurance plans. The coverage will vary from each plan. Noth Carolina is a direct access state. This means a referral from your physician is not required. Your insurance company may require one. Medicare patients need a referral from your physician.

1. Your medical history
2. Your current complaints and problems.
3. How your complaints affect your daily life.
4. Pain intensity, what makes the pain better or worse.
5. Your goals with physical therapy.
6. Any medications you take, tests and procedures you have had.

• The physical therapist will then perform an objective evaluation. This may include the following:

       1. Palapation- 

     The therapist will touch the area of pain or problem area. This is done to feel for tenderness, swelling,  soft tissue restrictions,  warmth, inflammation.

           2. Range of Motion-

       The therapist will move your joints to see if there are any limitations in movement and how much movement you have.

           3. Muscle Testing-

     The therapist may test how strong your muscles contract. Pain with this and weakness may be noted. The quality of the contraction is graded.

           4. Neurologic Screening-

     The therapist may check to see how your muscles and nerves are working together. May check reflexes, sensation of touch and temperature, and pain.

           5. Special Tests-

     The therapist may perform additional tests to help in determining your treatment plan.

           6. Postural Assessment-

      The therapist will assess your posture and see what is not aligned properly.

Your physical therapist will design a plan of carebased on their findings from the initial evaluation.  The plan is developed with your input. This p[lan will include how often per week you should attend physical therapy for how many weeks. Goals will be developed with your input and your physician’s input too.. It also includes a home exedrcise program.