What is physical therapy?
It is often called "hands on healing". It is the conservative side of medicine that encompasses a full body approach to one’s ailment. Generally, the field uses the person’s own resources through techniques and modalities to restore a person to his/her optimal health.

What are modalities?
Modalities are treatment techniques used by physical therapists to aid in a person’s recovery. They include moist heat, massage, joint mobilization, stretching, myofascial release, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, iontophoresis, cryotherapy and therapeutic exercise. All are explained by the therapist before one is treated.

What is aquatic therapy?
Aquatic therapy is a branch of physical therapy that utilizes the buoyancy and resistance of water to promote healing.

What do I need to make an appointment?
In New York State, one needs a physician’s referral to make their first appointment. Insurance covers most physical therapy, but each plan is unique and some require prior approval.

Do I always see the same therapist?
At the Center for Physical Therapy, one will always see the therapist they start with. Unusual circumstances include scheduling difficulties or special diagnoses. Also, in the aquatic therapy environment, therapists may vary from session to session.

How long does each session last?
Generally, your initial visit will last over one hour where the therapist will explain your condition, provide treatment and give home instructions. Following visits may last from 1 to 3 hours depending on the person’s injury and level of activity. Pool sessions are generally 45’ to one hour. How frequent do I come? Most prescriptions are 2-3 times weekly, but this may vary upon your condition.

I’ve heard the treatment is painful. Is this true?
Contrary to popular belief, most of physical therapy feels good. Massage, heat and soft tissue work are all pain free. The reputation comes from physical therapist trying to push the body to its limits in order to get 100% recovery. Rest assured that the physical therapist will work well within your tolerance.

What insurance do you take?
The Center for Physical Therapy accepts most major insurance policies including MVP, Medicare, and Blue Cross. We also work as out-of-plan providers for other companies. Please call the front desk for details.

Do you take workman’s compensation and no-fault?
Yes, we do.

Is there a co-pay?
Most insurances have a co-pay for each visit, usually between $5 and $50. In today’s world, each policy is different, so you must check with your insurance representative.  Our physical therapy profession is working diligently with insurance companies to lower some of these excessive co-pays.

Is there a limit to the number of visits I am allowed?
Recently, the trend of insurance companies is to limit the number of visits. However, this is individual according to your plan and there are usually avenues of appeal.

What activities do I perform?
Depending upon your condition, one usually takes part in some type of therapeutic exercise. At the Center, we are firm believers in conditioning and that exercise plays a vital role in your recovery. Physical therapy is unique in the fact that treatment is not all passive; meaning one takes an active role in their recovery.

What do I wear?
Most people come in sweats or gym apparels. We ask that you wear something comfortable and you are able to expose the area that we are to be working on. For example please wear shorts if there is a knee condition or a tank top if there is shoulder trouble.

Is privacy maintained?
Yes, your privacy in conversation and in dress is most certainly maintained in six private rooms. Most knees and ankles are treated in an open, friendly atmosphere.

Is there contact between the physician and physical therapist?
At our facility a progress note will be written to your physician before your next visit or once every 4 weeks. If the physician has any concerns, there are direct channels to reach us.

What do I need to make an appointment?
In New York State, one no longer needs a physician’s referral.  Just call the office 845 297-4789 or click here to be connected.