Can I see my Physical Therapist without a doctor's referral? 

 

Yes! The state of California offers direct access to physical therapy for 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first. If a patient needs more physical therapy beyond this amount, a doctor's referral is required, and if a physical therapist suspects need for a physician's visit, a doctor's visit will be necessary.

 

 

Can I be reimbursed for my visit from my health insurance company? 

 

At Milk + Honey Physical Therapy, you will be provided with a super bill at the end of your visit which you can then take to your insurance company directly to see if it can be reimbursed or applied towards your deductible.

 

 

How long will my treatment session last? 

 

At Milk + Honey Physical Therapy, we pride ourselves on our one-on-one evaluation and treatment sessions.  Each visit will be a full hour with a doctor of physical therapy.  You will never be "handed off" to an aide, you will have individualized, personal, focused care.

 

 

How many sessions am I allowed to get? 

 

That is completely up to you and your physical therapist! Your therapist will give you options depending on what you are coming in with. You are always free to opt out at any time for any reason.

 

 

Is a physical therapist a medical doctor? 

 

No. A physical therapist holds the title "DPT," or Doctor of Physical Therapy. DPTs are required to obtain their doctoral degree from an accredited Physical Therapy School, which takes 3 years, after completing their undergraduate studies at a 4 year university. Their undergraduate courses are similar if not identical to the "pre-med" courses medical doctors must take. DPTs also have to take a Board Exam to be Board-Certified in their state of practice.

 

 

Is a physical therapist the same as a chiropractor? 

 

No. Chiropractors and Physical Therapists undergo a different set of educational courses and different training in two separate types of schools. A physical therapist does not typically perform "adjustments," as most chiropractors do; instead they introduce joint mobility with a series of manual techniques as well as exercises that will accustom your body and joints to the motion that is being introduced.

 

 

Will I have to exercise on my own outside of appointment sessions? 

 

Ideally, yes. The more you can do on your own, the more valuable your time with your therapist will be. A good analogy would be if you completely depended on your dental cleaning visits to be sufficient for your oral hygiene, without ever brushing or flossing your teeth at home!

 

 

Will I still need surgery if I am going to PT? 

 

This is case by case dependent. In many instances, physical therapy can be sufficient to avoid surgical intervention, but it is not always the case. Even if surgery is required, both "pre-hab" and rehab might be beneficial to your case depending on your diagnosis. Your physical therapist can help you determine what is the best course of action for you, and may refer you out to a specialist if necessary.

 

 

Does physical therapy hurt? 

 

There is a difference between pain, discomfort, and effort. Generally speaking, pain should be avoided during treatment sessions.

 

 

Will I be sore after PT? 

 

This depends on how much manual therapy and exercise you had during your session! It is helpful to keep yourself hydrated, especially after a treatment session.

 

 

Do I need an MRI or X-ray to come to physical therapy? 

 

No, you do not require an MRI or X-ray to come to physical therapy. That being said, any radiology reports will be helpful to your PT provider in helping you determine your diagnosis and plan of care.

 

 

What should I wear to my appointment? 

 

Clothes you are comfortable moving around and exercising in; work out clothes are a great option.