Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Physical Therapy

1. What Does a Typical Physical Therapy Session Involve?

A typical physical therapy session at Start PT Now includes a blend of personalized assessments, targeted exercises, and hands-on therapies. Your therapist may start with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and range of motion, followed by strength training, flexibility exercises, and possibly techniques like ultrasound or manual therapy to improve mobility and reduce pain. Each session is customized to your unique needs to ensure optimal recovery.

2. How Long Will My Treatment Last?

The duration of your physical therapy program depends on the nature of your condition and your specific recovery goals. While some patients see improvement in just a few weeks, others with more complex injuries may need several months of consistent sessions. During your initial consultation, your therapist will provide a tentative timeline based on your assessment and desired outcomes.

3. How Often Will I Need to Attend Physical Therapy?

Typically, patients visit once or twice a week for physical therapy. However, your therapist may recommend a different frequency based on your progress and personal schedule. Regular attendance is important for achieving consistent results.

4. Will Physical Therapy Be Painful?

It’s common to feel mild soreness after physical therapy sessions, especially if you’re working to strengthen weakened muscles. However, therapy should not be painful. If you experience any sharp pain, it’s essential to communicate this with your therapist, who can adjust your exercises to avoid discomfort and ensure a safe, effective recovery.

5. Do I Need a Doctor’s Referral to Start Physical Therapy?

In many states, physical therapy is available through "direct access," which means you can start therapy without a doctor’s referral. At Start PT Now, we’re happy to guide you through this process and help determine if direct access is available in your area.

6. What Can I Do at Home to Support My Recovery?

Your physical therapist will provide you with a personalized set of exercises to do at home. These exercises are crucial for maintaining progress between sessions and can include simple stretching, strengthening exercises, or activities tailored to your injury. Home exercises improve the likelihood of a quicker recovery and help prevent re-injury.

7. Will I Need Special Equipment for My Home Exercises?

In most cases, your therapist will design home exercises that don’t require special equipment. If additional tools, like resistance bands or small weights, can enhance your results, we’ll let you know how to acquire these affordably. Many exercises use body weight and common household items​.

8. When Will I Start to See Results?

Most patients notice initial improvements within a few weeks, especially in terms of reduced pain and increased mobility. However, significant progress often takes a few months of consistent therapy and adherence to home exercises. Patience and regular attendance are key to seeing the best results.

9. How Will My Progress Be Measured?

Your therapist will monitor your recovery through periodic assessments, tracking improvements in range of motion, strength, and pain levels. These assessments provide valuable feedback and may lead to adjustments in your treatment plan to keep you on track for your goal.

10. Can I Continue Exercises After Completing Physical Therapy?

Yes! In fact, we encourage our patients to continue a maintenance exercise routine after completing therapy. Regularly engaging in prescribed exercises can help prevent future injuries and maintain the progress you’ve achieved during your sessions.

At Start PT Now, we’re dedicated to supporting every step of your recovery. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule a consultation, reach out to us! Physical therapy can be a transformative experience, and we’re here to make it as seamless as possible.