FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy (PT), is the use of a detailed evaluation (along with other medical history and imaging when available) to design a treatment with the goal of promoting the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Common interventions often include the use of biomechanics/kinesiology, manual therapy (soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, and modalities (electrotherapy, heat, ice and laser therapy). Physical therapists also work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Can I choose where to go for PT?

Yes! As a patient, you have the right to receive physical therapy at any place you choose. While a doctor’s office may refer you to a specific PT clinic, you get to choose where you are treated. At First Rehab & Sport, you will receive the highest quality care while achieving the results you need. We pride ourselves on providing a positive, encouraging environment with well-trained, friendly staff. We are confident in our ability to help you reach your goals and live a pain-free life.
Do I need a prescription or physician’s order to receive physical therapy?
Why Choose First Rehab?

Expert therapists and staff at each First Rehab location are committed to providing the highest-quality physical therapy care, one-on-one. First Rehab does not double book appointments as some other clinics do. We strive to provide care with minimal discomfort to gain maximum function. Services include physical therapy treatment for spinal disorders impacting the neck and lower back, shoulder dysfunction, hip and pelvic pain, knee problems, foot and ankle pain, sports injuries, vestibular disorders, post-concussion syndrome, chronic pain disorders and a number of neurological disorders including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and post-stroke. We are able to treat high level athletes, geriatric patients, and pediatric patients.
Are your physical therapists trained to treat my condition?

Physical therapists have years of university-level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. Our physical therapists have graduated degrees from accredited physical therapy and physical therapist assistant programs and are state-licensed. Depending on the university, the physical therapy program is either a master’s or doctorate level degree. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.
What is direct access to physical therapy?

The state of Michigan allows direct access to physical therapy. In short, this means that a patient does not need to visit their doctor to obtain a referral or prescription to physical therapy. This practice is not designed to eliminate physicians, but instead put patients directly in contact with injury experts as quickly as possible. Physical therapists are trained to look for “red flags” and refer patients to their primary care physicians for symptoms that are identified to be outside the scope of PT practice. According to Michigan Direct Access Law, a patient can receive treatment for up to 21 days (NOT 21 treatment visits) before needing a referral from a physician. In many cases, 3 weeks or less of PT can resolve a patient’s problem. IF a patient needs to continue therapy beyond the 21 allowed days, a referral is required to continue. As stated previously, certain insurances do still require a doctor’s referral for physical therapy.
How do I schedule an appointment?
What should I expect during my first therapy visit?

On your first visit, one of our licensed therapists will do an evaluation. This is a thorough examination of your current performance compared to your previous abilities. Your therapist will spend time with you getting a detailed history and completing standardized assessments to gain an accurate understanding of your current abilities. He or she may test your strength, check your range of motion in various joints, watch you walk, assess your posture, and palpate muscles or other body landmarks. At First Rehab, we search for the source of your symptoms and the underlying root cause driving your pain and symptom patterns. This examination allows us to identify any perpetuating factors that may prolong your recovery. After the evaluation, the therapist will discuss the findings with you and then develop a rehabilitation program to help attain the goals you set together to help you reach optimal function. Depending on how much time your evaluation takes (generally 60-80 minutes), we may also provide some treatment and/or initiate a home exercise program for patients to start doing on their own. Our goal is to also provide education on self-management of your condition.
What insurances do you accept?
Does insurance cover my therapy?

Yes, in almost all cases it does. Most plans do have deductibles and copays for PT services. First Rehab & Sport Physical Therapy will be happy to assist in contacting your insurance company and determining your coverage and costs based on your individual policy. We do offer different payment options for your convenience.
What about deductibles and copays?

Most plans carry a deductible which requires you to pay for your healthcare until you reach a set amount. This amount is your deductible. After your deductible has been met, you will share healthcare costs with your insurance company. Your share is either a flat rate (co-pay) or percentage of costs (co-insurance).
Can I still get therapy if I don’t have insurance?
What are my payment options?

If you have insurance we will bill them on your behalf. If a deductible, co-pay, or co-insurance are part of your plan, payment is expected at the time of service. We also have affordable cash pay programs. Additionally, we accept cash, check, Visa, and MasterCard.
What type of costs are associated with physical therapy?
What if I can’t afford PT?
What should I bring to my first physical therapy visit?

For your first physical therapy visit, you will need to bring your completed patient forms and photo identification, insurance information, and a list of your current medications (both prescribed and over the counter). If you have one, you should bring a prescription for therapy from your doctor. Please also bring any relevant x-ray, MRI, or CT scan reports if you have them.
What should I wear to physical therapy?

Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow you to easily move around. During therapy, the body part to be addressed may need to be exposed. For example, knees and shoulders may be more easily accessed if you are wearing loose short sleeves or shorts. Back pain may require changing into an examination gown. In addition to the examination gowns we do have paper shorts if you forget yours. Private changing areas are available. Please do not wear flip flops, sandals or dress shoes. In the winter months, we ask that you bring dry, clean shoes to wear during therapy sessions.
How long do physical therapy appointments last?

The initial physical therapy evaluation will last about one hour, but we ask you to please arrive 20 minutes prior to your initial visit to allow for your initial check-in. Subsequent follow-up visits will last about 40-60 minutes in length and are dependent upon the specific needs of the patient.
How many visits will I need?
Does physical therapy hurt?

Physical therapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels can fluctuate at times. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.
How is my progress measured?

Tracking your process is an ongoing process that your therapist will be evaluating during each session to quantify any progression. Your progress will be noted and sent to your referring physician, primary care physician, insurance company and/or case manager. Your physical therapist will complete a progress evaluation and will ask you to complete a ‘Patient Outcome Form” generally every 4-6 weeks. This information helps your therapist track your recovery and request continued support from your physician and/or insurance to continue PT services.
Will you be in contact with my physician?

Yes, our therapists will forward initial evaluation results and impressions following your first visit and any subsequent re-evaluations.. Your physician will be advised of your progress. In addition, please advise us if you have a follow-up appointment scheduled with your physician so that we may prepare a report in advance of your appointment.
What happens if I miss or have to cancel an appointment?

Please help us to provide you with the best service possible by keeping scheduled appointments. Unless cancelled at least 24 hours in advance, our policy is to charge for late, cancelled or missed appointments at the rate of $35 per missed visit. You will be given a copy of our attendance policy during your initial evaluation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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