Laurel Physical Therapy Office FAQs

What do physical therapists do?

As physical therapists, we have the ability to specifically identify musculoskeletal dysfunctions based on abnormal movement patterns, reduced range of motion and expressed symptoms utilizing various tests and measures that are specific to each patient and specific target tissues that may be affected. After determining your specific impairments, we are then able to provide patients with manual interventions, strength and stabilization exercises, flexibility training, promoting proper body mechanics with functional movements, such as bending, lifting, carrying, and squatting. Each patient is different and will be provided with an individualized approach to their specific symptoms.

What’s next after physical therapy?

Throughout your sessions of physical therapy, your therapist will be providing you with home exercises and self-management techniques to promote independence towards reaching your goals and returning to your prior level of function.

Can my therapist provide me with a diagnosis?

After a thorough examination and interview process, it is our mission to provide you with a rehabilitative explanation of your musculoskeletal system.

Can I go directly to my physical therapist, or do I need a referral?

Most health insurance companies require a referral for treatment from your PCP or your referring specialist. Please contact your insurance carrier to determine if a referral is required for a specialty visit.

What if my problem or pain returns?

Many patients may go weeks, months or years before their symptoms return. It is our duty to provide you with the techniques and self-management exercises to manage your symptoms independently throughout your time at physical therapy. In the instance that your symptoms do return, we offer a 15-minute consultation to discuss your symptoms and concerns to determine if returning to physical therapy is the right option for you.

Will I get a massage at physical therapy?

Physical therapy utilizes manual interventions including soft tissue mobilizations, joint mobilizations, active release techniques, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, cupping and trigger point dry needling to improve the mobility of your muscles, improve circulation and reduce pain.

What types of treatments will I receive?

Physical therapy treatments will consist of a series of interventions including electrical stimulation therapy, ultrasound therapy, cold therapy, heat therapy, strengthening and stabilization exercises, flexibility training, balance, and neuromuscular retraining as well as manual interventions including soft tissue mobilizations or joint manipulations. Depending on your course of treatment, your physical therapist will decide which of these interventions will provide you with the best results.

Is physical therapy painful?

Physical therapy should not be painful. However, it is normal to experience soreness following your sessions.

Are there physical therapy specialists?

Our physical therapists are specialized in manual physical therapy, as they have their Manual Therapy Certification. We also have providers who specialize in migraine relief, pelvic floor rehabilitation, trigger point dry needling, cupping and functional movement analyses.

Who will see me?

For your first appointment, you will be assigned a physical therapist that will follow you directly throughout your sessions. Our facility utilizes a few support staff including licensed physical therapy assistants; however you treatment will primarily be over seen by your designated physical therapist.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing that allows us to evaluate your area of injury.

Will my insurance cover my visit?

Health Insurance coverage can vary from plan to plan. Our staff will verify your benefits with your insurance company prior to your sessions to find out exactly what your plan will cover. Based on your coverage, you and your physical therapist will create a plan that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Which insurances do you accept?

We participate with most Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania insurances including, but not limited to the list below. Notify us if you don’t see your insurance on this list.
– Auto
– Aetna
– Blue Cross/Blue Shield
– CareFirst
– Cigna
– Coventry
– Healthsmart
– Medicare
– Medicaid (including MPC, Amerigroup, Priority Partners)
– Railroad Medicare
– Tricare
– UniCare
– United Health Care
– UMR
– Worker’s Compensation
– Self Pay

Why are people referred to physical therapy?

There are many reasons patients may be referred to physical therapy, including neck, low back pain, migraines, pre and post-operative rehabilitation, migraine management, pre and post-partum pelvic floor management, arthritis symptom management, vestibular rehabilitation or generalized strengthening and balance training to reduce fall occurrences. Our main priority is to get you to regain your functional independence and return to your desired lifestyle.

Why is physical therapy a good choice?

As doctoral prepared physical therapists, we have the ability to determine if physical therapy is the best option for you by ruling out systemic and non-musculoskeletal dysfunctions. Once we determine if you a good candidate for physical therapy, it can have many benefits including promoting healthy movements, improved quality of life, adequate sleeping patterns and providing our patients with the resources they need to be successful following their time in therapy.

What happens during my first visit?

During your first visit, a thorough interview, evaluation and examination will be performed that is tailored to your expressed symptoms. This can include various manual techniques, exercises, movement analyses and general education to assist with self-management techniques. You should expect to move throughout your treatment, so we recommend bringing comfy clothes and supportive shoes. Other interventions that may be utilized including electrical stimulation therapy, cold therapy, heat therapy, as well as ultrasound therapy to address pain and inflammation management.

What happens after my first visit?

Your individual plan and treatment will depend upon what you and your therapist talk about and what you want to achieve with physical therapy. You can expect hands on care specific to your body which may include soft tissue and scar mobilization, visceral manipulation, and dry needling. Your home program may include breath work, strengthening and stability exercises, stretches, and modifying some of your day to day activities.

How many visits will I need?

On your first visit, you will have the opportunity to discuss your plan of care with your physical therapist, where they will estimate the number of visits you will need. We often see results quickly and the number of visits can range from as little as 2 or more, depending on your rehabilitation diagnosis. We highly encourage our patients to complete their physical therapy plan to maximize their benefits and return to their functional lifestyle.

How long will each treatment last?

You should expect your initial evaluation to last from 60-90 minutes, with follow up appointments lasting 45-60 minutes depending on your plan of care.

What do I need to bring with me?

For your first visit, you should be sure to bring the following:
-Insurance Card
-ID
-PT/OT Script
-Referral (if applicable)
After verifying your benefits, each session will be submitted to your health insurance company for review. Coverage of insurance is strictly dependent on your individualized plan. We do our best to provide you with this information in regard to your copay or coinsurance, prior to your initial evaluation, so you are aware that you may have out of pocket costs.

How does the billing process work?

Our front office staff will assist with verifying your insurance benefits and estimating the patient responsibility. After your visit, our billing team will submit the claim to your insurance company and determine the remaining patient-due balance, if any.

Do you have a wheelchair?

We do not; however, our office is wheelchair accessible.

Do you accept Medicaid?

Yes.

Do you have an interpreter?

Yes; remote service via Language Line.

Do you have a no-show fee/late policy?

No.

Can I use public transportation to get to the office?

Please visit Google Maps to view your public transportation options (Directions –>Transit).

Where are you located?

Click here to see our locations.

Do you take self-pay patients?

New patient: $100 ; Follow-Up: $100

Patient Intake Forms

2024 Patient Information Packet E Forms (Click To Download PDF)