Q: Does my physician need to refer me to physical therapy or can I just come in and have you treat my back?

A: There are actually 2 answers:
1. To actually receive physical therapy treatment in the state of Texas, a written prescription from your physician, physician’s assistant, podiatrist, dentist or chiropractor.
2. Physical therapy screens are allowed in Texas without a prescription. A screen is an evaluation with treatment that allows a physical therapist to assess a person’s problem and direct the person to the appropriate level of care. The screen is convenient for people to stop their local Peak clinic and with this on-line coupon receive a $75.00 value for free.

Q: What should I bring to my first physical therapy session?

A: First, your prescription for physical therapy, driver’s license, insurance card and any pertienent medical information that is easier to have copied versus telling your therapist. Second, either wear or bring clothing to change into that allows for the therapist to evaluate your injury. Examples of this would be shorts for a knee injury, loose fitting pants and shirt for a back injury.

Q: I’m sore after my initial evaluation, is that normal?

A: Yes. During the initial evaluation it is important for the therapist to pinpoint the source of your pain. This involves palpation of sore spots and various motions and movements that may cause soreness. With the plan of care now developed, your next treatments will focus on decreasing pain and improving function.

Q: I’m feeling better now, but still have 4 visits left on my prescription, can I stop going?

A: Each therapy visit builds on the previous one. To stop prematurely, could result in regression or worse yet, a more severe injury in the future. Only your physician or physical therapist should make the decision of when to discontinue therapy.

Q: My doctor wrote my physical therapy prescription on a competitor’s prescription pad, do I have to go to them?

A: No. It is the patient’s right to decide where they go for physical therapy. Many therapists utilize prescription pads for marketing purposes. Any prescription is good at any physical therapy clinic as long as it is less than 30 days old.

Q: How do I know if you take my insurance?

A: Each Peak clinic has it’s insurance list on their clinic home page or you can call the clinic. Peak strives to be accessible as possible to our customers and accepts most insurance plans

Q: I work out at a gym with a personal trainer. I’ve had some aches and pains before and he has given me some advice on different stretches to do. What’s the difference between what a personal trainer does and what a physical therapist does?

A: Physical therapists receive a degree from an university in how to medically treat patients with a variety of diagnoses. Personal trainers receive training and certification on how to assist the “well” public in meeting their exercise goals. The main difference is that physical therapists receive a degree and pass a state licensing exam on how to assist patients with pain, weakness and dysfunction. Many patients who successfully complete their physical therapy programs become excellent personal trainer candidates.