Frequently Asked Questions

Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, we can always take new patients and we can often fit a new patient in the same day you call. In New York State, we have Direct Access to physical therapy. This means you do not need a physician's referral for your first visit.

What happens at my first visit?
At your first visit your therapist will do an initial evaluation and often begin treatment the same day. They will go over your medical history and get an idea of how you arrived at our office. A physical therapy plan of treatment will then be coordinated with your doctor. Please allow 45 to 60 minutes for your first visit.

What do I need to bring with me at my first visit?
Please bring the referral that your doctor gave you for physical therapy (if you have one). Also your insurance card(s) and a list of any medications you are on. If you are a No Fault or Worker's Compensation patient, please bring all necessary information such as claim number and insurance carrier information. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing if possible.

What will the physical therapist do?
This depends on your specific diagnosis. The therapist will review your medical and mechanical history as to how your symptoms have developed. The therapist will evaluate your functional abilities as well as any movement loses and painful positions or movements. This assessment will determine what type of condition you have and we will be able to design a specific treatment plan.

How long will the sessions last?
Your initial evaluation will last 45 to 60 minutes. A typical session after that will last between 30 and 40 minutes.

How many visits will I need?
This depends entirely on the condition, the severity of the condition, and your compliance with your home exercises. Sometimes patient see improvement within one or two visits, sometimes several months of care are required. Most patients will need on average 2 to 3 visits per week depending on what your doctor and therapist recommend. You will be reevaluated regularly and care is always coordinated with your referring physician to ensure the best outcome.

Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most insurances (for a more complete list, look under the Insurance tab). At your first visit, we will contact your health insurance company to determine your physical therapy benefits.

Why is physical therapy a good choice?
Physical therapy, specifically the McKenzie Method, is a very patient empowered method of correcting a disorder and improving pain and can help you keep your pain from returning later. Physical therapy is safe, drug-free, and has no side-effects. For more information on choosing physical therapy, see the consumer choice brochure published by the New York Physical Therapy Association by clicking here (link to PDF of brochure).

I have other questions, what should I do?
Please feel free to call us at 518-273-2121. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.