FAQs

Q.  What are your hours of operation?
A.  We are open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Q.  What is a physical therapist?
A.  Physical therapists are highly educated, licensed health care professionals, trained in the evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction.  Therapists help patients to improve movement and function, relieve pain, and expand movement potential — often without expensive surgery or the side-effects of medication. Physical therapy is often the treatment of choice in situations where pain impairs function, in recovering from an injury or surgery, and in recovering from a disease or illness.

Q.  Will my insurance pay for treatment?
A.  Most insurance companies do provide coverage for physical therapy services. The amount and type of coverage varies. We participate with Medicare, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Health Net, Sutter Select and many other insurance companies. It is always best to check with your insurance company regarding specific coverage guidelines. Our staff will verify your coverage prior to your first visit.

Q   Do I need to be referred by my doctor?
A.  The State of California allows direct access for patients to receive a physical therapy evaluation without a physician referral. However, ongoing treatment by a physical therapist requires a diagnosis by a physician. This can be verbal from your physician, faxed, or hand carried by you.

Q.  How do I get started?
A.  Just give us a call at (707) 303-4992 and our office staff will assist you in setting up an appointment.

Q. What should I wear?
A. You should wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and that allow the therapist to evaluate the area of the body to be treated. For example, for a shoulder injury, you could wear a t-shirt or sports-bra. For a low back or leg problem, it might be appropriate to wear shorts.

Q. Will the evaluation or treatment hurt?
A. Exercises are designed not to be painful. Some treatments require the therapist to help restore motion and that can be difficult at times.  However, as the patient, you are a participant in the process and should look forward to your visits, not fear them.

Q.  In addition to the evaluation, what else will be involved in my treatment?
A.  After identifying the physical therapy diagnosis and any functional limitations or impairments during your evaluation, your therapist will determine an appropriate treatment plan. Visits will commonly include "hands on" treatment from the therapist, such as a joint mobilization or soft-tissue mobilization or stretching technique. The therapist will also include exercise and programs to restore motion, strength and balance to your activity.

Q. How long do treatments last?
A. Treatments typically last one hour, but sometimes can be longer, especially if the pool is used in your rehabilitation.

Q. How often will I have appointments?
A. Typically patients attend physical therapy appointments two times per week, but it can be as many as three, if needed.

Q. How is my progress measured?
A. Progress is measured during routine re-assessments with your therapist and through constant communication during all visits.

Q. Will I have an increase in my symptoms?
A.  You should report any increase in symptoms or change in symptoms to your treating therapist as soon as possible, either at the time or with a phone call after the visit.  Usually, there is an explanation that will help you get through the process. If it is something out of the ordinary, your therapist will ask you to come back so he or she can re-evaluate you.

Q.  What is my responsibility in the treatment process?
A.  You should communicate with your therapist by giving constant feedback and asking questions. Make sure to complete home exercises and maintain consistency with your appointments.

Q.  What can I do to get better at home?
A.  Make sure to follow your home exercises and if you are not sure about what to do at home, speak with your therapist.

Q.  Will I need maintenance or follow-up care?
A.  Each patient will have a complete plan of care upon discharge that will address further treatment, if needed.

Q. What if I need to return to physical therapy?
A.  Depending on how long it has been — you may be able to come back in or may need to get a new referral — your therapist will be the best person to talk with if you are concerned about the need to return. We will make every effort to provide a follow-up appointment in a timely fashion.