Whether you are a first-time patient, or returning for follow up sessions, you might have some questions about who we are and what we do. Below, you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions about physical therapy.
Q: What is the difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy?
Physical therapists are state-licensed professionals who evaluate and treat various physical injuries, provide post-operative rehabilitation, massage therapy, and more. Occupational therapists are licensed professionals who specialize in therapy programs for work injuries, joint range-of-motion, adaptive techniques, and workplace evaluations.
Q: What is the difference between a physical therapist and physiotherapist?
The difference between a physical therapist and a physiotherapist is: nothing! These terms are synonymous. “Physiotherapist” is typically used outside the United States but refers to the same occupation.
Q: What are the educational and training requirements for physical therapists?
To practice physical therapy in the U.S. you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)-accredited education program. The graduate must thereafter pass a licensure exam before a state’s Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. There are also post-graduate educational opportunities for specialty certifications and clinical residency or fellowship programs.
Physical therapists study and receive training in subjects that include:
- Biology/anatomy
- Physiology
- Exercise physiology
- Kinesiology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Evidence-based practice
- Cardiovascular and pulmonary systems
- Endocrine and metabolic systems
- Musculoskeletal systems
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, our doctors have earned Doctors of Physical Therapy degrees, and are the only Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists in Monmouth County.
Q: Do I need a physician’s referral/prescription to attend physical therapy?
No – In New Jersey, physical therapists may evaluate and treat patients without a physician’s referral or prescription, provided that physical therapists refer their patients to a dental, podiatric, medical, or surgical specialist for conditions outside the scope of physical therapy, or the patient hasn’t made reasonable progress after 30 days of treatment.
Q: Will my insurance cover physical therapy?
Most insurance companies cover physical therapy. However, the extent of coverage may vary from policy to policy. For example, some policies may only cover physical therapy that is medically necessary, while other policies may also cover preventative care.
ProFysio Physical Therapy participates with Medicare and New Jersey personal injury protection (MVA) insurance programs. We also accept New York workers’ compensation claims, and most other insurance on an out-of-network basis. Unfortunately, we do not accept Medicaid or New Jersey Family Care. We also offer Care Credit so patients can get the necessary treatment within a tighter budget.
For a more comprehensive list of insurance providers accepted by ProFysio, visit our services page.
Q: What should I wear to my appointment?
You should wear comfortable, unrestrictive clothing for maximum range of movement. Patients with neck, shoulder, or back injuries should wear loose-fitting short-sleeved shirts, or tank tops. Patients with lower-extremity and hip injuries should wear shorts or loose-fitting pants. The ultimate goal is to allow your physical therapist to make an accurate assessment of your condition.
Q: What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your insurance card and, if applicable, any operative records, MRI or x-ray results. You should also bring any adaptive equipment you use, such as a brace, crutches, sling or splint.
Q: How long does a session last?
Your first evaluation may last around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition. Subsequent sessions last an hour on average, and possibly more time for more extensive conditions. We also limit our sessions to 2 patients per hour to ensure you get the necessary attention to optimize your recovery and experience.
Get Comprehensive Care from Our Monmouth County Physical Therapists
Our goal at ProFysio Physical Therapy is to guide and support our patients through treatment and towards their ideal physical condition. Whether you’re here for rehabilitative or preventative care, our highly trained licensed doctors and staff are devoted to helping you realize an active, and pain-free lifestyle through comprehensive individualized care.
Schedule a consultation with our doctors by calling (732) 333-6360, or by contacting us online.