How are Physical Therapists qualified and what types of patients do they see?
Physical Therapists (PTs) are trained at the Post-Graduate level at an accredited University and are licensed by the state in which they practice. PT's are experts of the muscular and skeletal systems and the aim is to restore function. Individuals who require PT services often have muscle or joint related pain and dysfunction related to injury, surgery, accident, conditions (i.e. pregnancy) or illnesses/syndromes. Poor posture or improper body mechanics during repetitive motion or lifting may also lead to the gradual onset of chronic pain (primarily neck and back). These individuals may also benefit from PT services.
Do PT's provide massage?
PT's use techniques such as Soft Tissue and Deep Tissue Mobilization (Myofascial Release) in order to reduce pain, promote healing and increase tissue extensibility. Retrograde massages can be performed when the patient presents with extremity swelling. Cross friction massages are applied to those patients suffering from tendonitis or scar adhesions. These and other techniques represent only a portion of the services a patient may be provided during each treatment session.
What do PT sessions consist of and how long are they in length?
Each visit is usually an hour in length and the first visit consists of a PT Initial Evaluation. First the medical history is examined including current level of function - (difficulties/inabilities with activities of daily living at home, work, and/or hobby), then strength, range of motion, sensation, and joint movement are tested and measured. Special tests are performed to the affected joint and associated joints in order to test the origin of the pain, weakness and/or limited mobility. Balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration and motor function are also tests that may be performed.
At the end of the Initial Evaluation, according to the findings, a specific plan of care is designed and sent to the referring physician for signature. This plan includes specific exercises to enhance mobility, strength and endurance, modalities for pain as needed (heat, cold, ultrasound, and/or electrical stimulation), techniques to improve tissue mobility if applicable, and joint mobilization or stabilization, as required by the patient's condition. The treatment plan is progressed at intervals as the patient tolerates.
Treatment sessions are several times a week (2-3) for optimum benefit and patients are educated on a home program, proper posture, body mechanics and prevention techniques. At one month of the initial evaluation, the patient is re-evaluated to check progress; if function is restored and patient has returned to previous or improved functional level, then discharge from PT is in effect; if more PT is indicated because of unmet goals or limitations still present, then additional PT is requested by form of a Progress Note to the referring physician. (Sometimes the length of visits is restricted due to insurance plans).
What type of equipment is used in PT?
Most of the equipment available at PT Remedy you would also see at a commercial gym including general conditioning and cardiovascular equipment, as well as weight training equipment. In addition, PT Remedy utilizes specific tables for treatment: Mechanical Traction Table - for neck and back nerve impingement disorders, and a Pre-natal Treatment table - to allow pregnant patients to lay face down and facilitate back treatment. Each of these tables is located in a private treatment room. Modalities - ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat and ice therapy are offered. Specific therapy equipment designed to challenge an individual's range of motion, strength, balance and endurance are also available.
Do you provide home health PT?
At this time, PT Remedy only provides Outpatient services in the clinic setting.
Where are you located and do you provide transportation services?
PT Remedy is located at the Waterways Shoppes in Parkland, on 441 just north of Hillsboro . PT Remedy does not provide transportation services.
Do you provide Occupational and Speech Therapy?
PT Remedy provides Outpatient Physical Therapy and may provide Occupational Therapy as needed. Please check with our front office. Speech Therapy will not be provided at this location.
Do I need a physician's referral in order to receive PT?
The state of Florida is 1 of 42 states that allow patients Direct Access to PT without a physician's referral. The patient must seek a physician if the complaint is beyond the scope of PT or if it is not resolved within 21 days after receiving PT. Please check with your insurance company to see if you have Direct Access benefits.
PT Remedy accepts most major PPO insurances, Worker's Compensation, Auto and Medicare. For a complete list, please check with our front desk.
What if I do not have insurance?
PT Remedy accepts private pay patients. Private pay costs would be based on a flat fee per visit. For cost per visit information, please check with our front desk. We accept cash, check and MasterCard/Visa credit cards.
Have a question? Please call us at 954-384-7262 or email us at info@ptremedy.com.