Frequently Asked Questions

Physical Therapy:

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a profession dedicated to the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of physical disabilities and movement disorders. It is used often to help patients recover from surgery, injury, illness, manage chronic conditions, and prevent future health issues. Physical Therapists are highly trained professionals who develop personalized treatment plans based on a thorough assessment of the patients needs. They aim to enhance the quality of life by reducing pain, improving function, and preventing disability.

Physical Therapy can treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
  • Musculoskeletal injuries
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Chronic pain conditions
  • Neurological conditions
  • Balance and vestibular disorders
  • Pediatric conditions
  • Joint pain

Most insurances do not require a referral for physical therapy.

During your first appointment, the physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including your medical history, a physical examination, and possibly some diagnostic tests. They will discuss your symptoms, treatment goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

A typical physical therapy appointment will last between 45-60 minutes.

The number sessions each patient needs will vary based on individual conditions, severity, and goals. Your therapist will provide an estimated timeline based on the results of your initial evaluation.

Physical therapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore mobility, pain levels may fluctuate. You may experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering.

Yes, and we accept all insurances and will help you check your insurance benefits at no charge!

Comfortable, loose fitting clothing that allows the therapist access to any problem areas. Comfortable sneakers are also recommended.

The timeline for improvement varies greatly depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some people may see improvements within a few sessions, while others with more complex or chronic issues may take several weeks to months.

In a lot of cases, physical therapy can help manage and alleviate symptoms, potentially reducing the need for surgery. Your physical therapists can provide a better idea based on your specific condition.

If you don’t see improvement, your physical therapist may adjust your treatment plan, suggest different modalities, or refer you to another healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Physical therapy focuses on improving movement, strength, and physical function, while occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals perform daily activities and improve their quality of life through adaptations and skills training.

Exercises play a crucial role in physical therapy. They help to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, increase range of motion, and promote overall functional ability.

FSPT offers a wide range of treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. Some of the top treatments include:
  • Dry needling
  • Cupping therapy
  • Manual therapy
  • Therapeutic exercise
  • Joint mobilization
  • Soft tissue mobilization/massage
  • Electrical stimulation (E-stim)
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Balance and gait training
  • Neuromuscular re-education
  • Patient education and home exercise programs

Occupational Therapy:

What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy empowers individuals of all ages to achieve greater independence and satisfaction in daily activities. By developing personalized treatment plans, therapists help with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. OT supports children with developmental delays, adults recovering from injuries, and seniors maintaining independence, ensuring everyone leads productive and fulfilling lives.

Occupational therapy can benefit individuals of all ages with various conditions, including physical disabilities, mental health issues, developmental delays, and injuries.

  • Stroke or brain injury
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Hand injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Mental health conditions
  • Developmental delays
  • Sensory processing disorders

During your first appointment, the occupational therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation which includes discussing your medical history, current difficulties, and goals. They will assess your ability to perform daily activities and create a personalized treatment plan.

A typical occupational therapy appointment will last between 45-90 minutes.

The number sessions each patient needs will vary based on individual conditions, severity, and goals. Your therapist will provide an estimated timeline based on the results of your initial evaluation.

Yes, and we accept all insurances and will help you check your insurance benefits at no charge!

Activities can include exercises to improve strength and dexterity, activities of daily living (ALD) training, cognitive exercises, and the use of adaptive equipment.

Yes, occupational therapy can help can help individuals manage mental health issues by developing coping strategies, improving daily routines, and engaging in meaningful activities

Comfortable, loose fitting clothing that allows the therapist access to any problem areas. Comfortable sneakers are also recommended.

Speech Therapy:

What is speech therapy?

Speech therapy, led by speech-language pathologists (SLPs), improves communication and addresses swallowing disorders. SLPs help individuals articulate sounds, use language effectively, and manage voice and fluency issues. Whether aiding children with speech delays, adults post-stroke, or seniors with age-related challenges, speech therapy enhances communication skills, boosting confidence and improving personal, academic, and professional outcomes.

Individuals of all ages who have difficulties with speech, language, communication, or swallowing

  • Speech delays and disorders
  • Language delays and disorders
  • Articulation disorders
  • Fluency disorders
  • Voice disorders
  • Cognitive-communication disorders
  • Swallowing and feeding disorders

A Speech Language Pathologist will conduct an assessment, which includes discussing your medical history, evaluating your speech and language abilities, and understanding your communication needs and goals. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan to help you meet your needs and goals.

A typical speech therapy appointment will last between 45-90 minutes.

The frequency of sessions depends on the individual’s condition and goals. It can range from multiple times a week to less frequent sessions over a longer period of time.

Yes, and we accept all insurances and will help you check your insurance benefits at no charge!

Yes, adults with speech, language, or swallowing difficulties due to conditions such as stroke, brain injury, or neurological diseases can benefit from speech therapy.

Pediatrics:

How do I know which type of therapy my child needs?

Consult with your child’s pediatrician or a specialist if you have concerns about their development. They can help determine which type of therapy (speech, occupational, or physical) is the most appropriate based on your child’s specific needs.

Explain to your child what to expect in simple terms, reassure them that the therapist is there to help, and emphasize that the activities will be fun and aimed at helping them feel better or do things more easily.

We will work with families to schedule sessions at convenient times.

Your therapist will regularly update you on your child’s progress, set measurable goals, and provide reports. You may also notice improvements in your child’s abilities and behaviors at home and in other settings.

Signs can include delayed motor milestones (e.g. Sitting, crawling, walking), difficulty with balance and coordination, abnormal muscle tone (e.g., very tight ir very floppy muscles), and challenges with physical activities (e.g. running, jumping).

Parents play a crucial role in their child’s therapy by following the therapist’s recommendations, practicing the suggested exercises and activities at home, encouraging active play, and providing ongoing support and encouragement. Creating a positive and supportive environment helps reinforce the techniques learned during therapy and promotes steady progress.

The duration of therapy varies based on the child’s needs, the severity of the motor issues, and their progress. Your therapist will provide an estimated timeline and regularly update you on progress.

Yes, physical therapy can help children recover from sports injuries by addressing pain, improving strength and flexibility, and preventing future injuries through proper technique and conditioning.

Speech therapy can help children improve their speech and language skills, which are essential for effective communication, academic success, and social interactions.

Yes, occupational therapy can help address underlying sensory processing or motor skill issues that may contribute to behavioral problems allowing your child to improve in their ability to function and behave appropriately in various settings.

Signs can include difficulty with fine motor skills (e.g., writing, buttoning clothes), challenges with gross motor skills (e.g., balance, coordination), sensory processing issues, difficulties with daily activities (e.g., dressing, feeding), and social or behavioral problems.

Billing and Insurance:

Is therapy covered by my insurance plan?

Yes, therapy services are covered by insurance. However, coverage can vary, so it’s essential to check with your insurance provider regarding your specific benefits.

Most insurances do not require a referral from your doctor.

The cost of services vary based on the type of therapy, length of session, and the specific treatments provided. We do offer self-pay rates for patients that do not have insurance.

Out-of-pocket costs depend on your insurance plan, including deductibles, co insurance, and copays. Contact your insurance provider to understand your financial responsibility.

Insurance coverage varies by plan. Some plans cover the full cost after deductibles and copays, while others may only cover a percentage. Check your policy details or contact your insurance provider for specific information.

The number of covered sessions varies by insurance plan. Some plans have a set limit per year, while others may require periodic reauthorization based on progress. Verify with your insurance provider.

Yes, you can use HSA or FSA funds to pay for eligible therapy services. Check with your plan administrator for specific guidelines and eligible expenses.

If you have out-of-pocket costs after insurance, you will receive a bill. The bill will detail the services provided, the amount covered by insurance, and your remaining balance.

Yes! We offer flexible payment plans to help make your therapy more affordable. Please contact our billing department at 304-693-2781 to discuss the options available for you.