You finished physical therapy a few months ago but now that pain seems to be coming back!  Maybe the fall chores stirred things up and now you just don't know what to do. Your therapist gave you a program to exercise to maintain your goals but... "where did I put that now?" Does this sound familiar to you?

Since 2004 the First Choice physical therapists have been credentialed as "Direct Access" providers. This means you may be able to be seen "directly" by our therapists without a doctor's referral. The State Board of Physical Therapy passed "Direct Access" legislation in 2004 and all of the staff at First Choice can see you for up to 30 days of treatment without a physician referral. In fact, several major insurance companies already allow for this coverage and our offices can always help you determine the coverage you have.  We correspond with your doctor to make a note that you are in treatment again or if you have any medical problems that need diagnosis and referral.

It's not unusual for a back problem to flare up because of awkward or unfamiliar movements or activity. It is important to maintain and upgrade your home program to keep the highest function of shoulders and knees. Our goal is to make you as independent as possible and to help you achieve a full recovery!

We know that insurance does not always cover the treatment that your doctor and therapist would like you to have. If your insurance plan does not cover Direct Access to your therapist please call to learn how affordable a program can be. At that time you can discuss what treatment plan is best for you while talking to your therapist about your goals. It is likely that a few visits to First Choice can provide that "tune up" that you need to get on to feeling 100 percent!

By Chip O'Malley, PT, OCS