Lymphedema FAQs

What is Physical Therapy?
         
Physical therapists provide services that help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries or disease. They restore, maintain, and promote overall fitness and health.  Therapists examine patients’ medical histories and then test and measure the patients’ strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. They also determine patients’ ability to be independent and reintegrate into the community or workplace after injury or illness. Next, physical therapists develop plans describing a treatment strategy, its purpose, and its anticipated outcome.    

Do I need a referral?

Yes. 
If you feel that you may benefit from physical therapy, discuss it with your physician.   Ask your physician if it would be appropriate for you. 
Try to let your doctor know what improvements you would like to see in yourself.  For instance, tell your doctor if you'd like to walk better or put your shoes on more easily with less swelling in your feet.  

Can I choose where I go for Physical Therapy?

Absolutely!  You have a right to choose where you go for physical therapy.  Even if your physician has an association, you may request a referral to United Physical Therapy, LLC, (insurance coverage, however, may dictate where you go).

Will my insurance cover Physical Therapy? 

Call your insurance company/agent to determine your coverage, including maximum visits or amount spent in a calendar year.  Check with us if you do not find us in your provider director. We are in several major networks and subnetworks that your insurance company may use.

Discussion points in talking to your insurance: 

         Does my plan cover physical therapy at all?
         Am I limited by a set dollar amount per year?
         Am I limited to a set number of visits per year?

How often do I have to come?

Your physician and your therapist will determine the number of visits that are ideal to your treatment.  However, we realize that you do have a life outside of therapy and will work to meet your schedule and needs. 

Do you work with my doctor?

Yes.  United Physical Therapy, LLC, works with physicians from across the United States to provide their patients’ physical therapy.   We will communicate our initial findings; write interval progress notes; and write a discharge summary to let your doctor know how you are doing.

How long does an appointment last?

Your tolerance to therapy and your condition will dictate how long your appointment will last.   Additionally, we fully respect your time and will complete your therapy in a timely manner.  You will not be waiting for us.

Does Physical Therapy hurt?

No.  Physical therapy should not hurt.  Many think that “no pain, no gain” goes hand-in-hand with physical therapy.  This is not true.  Soreness may occur depending on the injury or illness.   However, we, at United Physical Therapy, LLC, respect your pain levels and tolerance.