FAQs

Physical therapy is the science of developing a comprehensive program implementing a variety of techniques, exercises and modalities to meet each individual’s goals and needs. Physical Therapy will assist you to achieve your highest level of function improving your quality of life.

Physical therapists are doctorate-level neuromusculoskeletal and biomechanical experts who specialize in helping people improve their physical function and quality of life. Furthermore, physical therapists work with their patients to help them achieve their goals, whether that’s recovering from an injury or surgery, reaching a new fitness level, or minimizing pain.

Occupational therapy focuses on the restoration of normal function using a whole person model or adaptive strategies to overcome challenges once full and maximum recovery has been reached. Restoration of function for the “job of life” is a common goal and includes all of the patient’s life roles work, leisure, and self-care activities.

Most musculoskeletal and neurological conditions can be treated through physical therapy. In fact, therapy is an effective proven, low cost and noninvasive way to overcome most injury, illness, impairment or disability. We see all kinds of conditions ranging from pain, fractures, total joint replacements, sprains/strains and post surgical conditions to name a few. Commonly we successfully treat things like carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff tears, ligament tears, tendonitis and other tendon disorders and arthritis. Conditions range anywhere from back/neck pain, shoulder and elbow pain, headaches, and lower extremity conditions including hips, knees, ankles, and foot pain and dysfunction.

That depends on the reason you're seeking care. We'll work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your specific needs. Generally a therapy plan lasts 30 to 90 days.

YES. As a patient, you have the right to request the physical therapy clinic of your choice. Choosing a physical therapist is as important as choosing the right doctor and surgeon. It will ensure you get the best results for you!

Under the best case scenario, physical therapy treatment should begin as early as possible. Early treatment can help prevent conditions from becoming chronic or from affecting other areas of the body. Early treatment can also decrease the length of time needed for therapy and reduces healthcare costs. If you have had surgery your doctor should be informed and authorize starting therapy.

Maybe. Arizona is a direct access state which means a physician referral is not required to receive physical therapy treatment. However, some insurance companies may require a physician’s referral. If you are unsure whether your insurance company requires a referral, call us and we can help. Regardless, we always work in close communication and collaboration with your other health care providers and case managers.

If your injury occurred on the job and you are filing a worker’s compensation claim you will need a physician’s prescription and referral.

Read more at stirehab.com/do-i-need-referral-for-physical-therapy/

At your first appointment, your physical therapist will discuss your health history, reasons for seeking care, and goals. The PT will then complete a thorough initial evaluation, assessing things like your strength, flexibility, balance, range of motion, and pain levels. Together, you’ll create a plan of care to assist you in meeting your goals.

You should bring your insurance card and photo ID. If you had surgery, any operative, MRI, and x-ray reports are very beneficial. In general, the wearing of comfortable clothing that will allow you to move around is best. Change areas are available in most clinics.

Initial appointments are typically 60 to 90 minutes. A normal session usually last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. This depends on your condition, progression, and your schedule. Our therapists are very concerned with providing you the most out each treatment so the length of treatment can vary. Our treatments are designed for you and will fit our program into your schedule.

Physical therapy shouldn’t be painful, but you may experience some temporary soreness and discomfort as you work and stretch muscles in a new way. If you ever feel pain during a session, immediately let your therapist know as they can help you understand that pain and modify the activity as needed.

YES. Your physician and therapist will set a treatment plan that they feel will allow you the best opportunity to rid you of your condition and/or pain. Each visit is critical to your recovery. The more you’re here the quicker you will get better. Your therapist will make a commitment to you and getting you better, and we ask the same of you in return.

No. We want to get you completely better, and that may include some exercises, strengthening, stimulation, etc. that goes beyond the point of you just “feeling better.” If you are feeling better, discuss your current state with your therapist and doctor to see if a modification should be made to your treatment plan. To avoid re-injury, it is important that you complete the prescribed treatment plan set out by your physical therapist and doctor.

Please remember that an appointment means that we have reserved that time especially for you. Each and every appointment is an integral part of getting you the care and results that you need. If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, please try and give us at least 24 hours notice.

Tracking your progress is an ongoing process that your therapist will be evaluated during each session to quantify any progression. Your progress will be noted and sent to your referring physician, primary care physician, insurance company, lawyer and case manager (if applicable). Your therapist may track your progress using various kinds of self-report questionnaires to help us better understand your condition in your own words. Patient Progress Reports give you the opportunity to give us an update on your condition and your therapy.