FAQs
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical Therapy is treatment of movement disorders and limitations caused by musculo-skeletal, neurological or cardiovascular conditions. Examples include sports injuries, back pain, neck pain, joint pain, surgery recovery, joint repair and replacement, stroke, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and much more. Treatment may include stretching, exercise, manual techniques (soft tissue work, joint/spinal mobilization, etc.), electrothermal modalities (ultrasound, laser, electric stim, etc.), and other specialized techniques.
Physical therapy can only be provided by a Physical Therapist (PT) or a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) under the supervision of a PT. PTs and PTAs must be licensed by the State Board and prove additional education each year to maintain current knowledge. Many PT’s are Doctors of Physical Therapy.
How do I get an appointment?
You simply call us at 607-973-2107, stop in at 35 Bridge St, Corning, NY or email us at office@choiceptcorning.com to set up an appointment.
Do I need to see my medical doctor first?
No! While we always appreciate physician referrals and we commit to working closely with your physician, it is not necessary to get you started. Either way, we will be sure to communicate with him or her from your first day with initial findings, periodic progress reports, and any other form of communication necessary to ensure a team approach to your best care.
Do you accept my insurance?
Most likely. We accept all major insurances and frequently add new insurances to our list as necessary.
How much will physical therapy cost?
How much you pay is completely dependent on the coverage provided by your insurance plan. Where you choose to go for physical therapy does not change that amount. Any in-network PT provider will be bound to the same fees and copayments.
Choice PT does offer a reasonable cash/out-of-pocket rate and payment plans for individuals who do not have insurance or choose to not use their insurance.
Is there a copayment?
Usually, yes, but this amount is determined by your insurance plan, not us. If you have two insurances (such as Medicare and AARP) you may not have any copayment at all.
How long will my visits be?
Your first visit will be 1 hour to allow your therapist adequate time to diagnose your issue and develop an individual treatment plan. Follow up visits will typically range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your situation.
How often and how many times will I need to come?
This will vary depending on the type, severity and longevity of your condition. Typically, effective treatment requires 2-3 visits per week for several weeks.
Will my insurance cover all of that?
Insurance plans vary greatly. Some do limit the number of physical therapy visits. Part of your initial visit includes researching your insurance plan so we can plan accordingly for your best outcome.
Does physical therapy treatment hurt?
Hopefully not! There are procedures that can be uncomfortable at times, but as a rule: NO it should not hurt and you should leave each visit feeling better than when you arrived.
What should I wear?
You should wear comfortable shoes and clothes that allow full movement of your body, at least in the areas we are looking at. Ladies should avoid dresses if possible since laying down and moving legs around is often necessary.
I am a very private person. Will I be in a gym with other patients?
Traditionally, most conditions require some time in our small, private gym (patients only). However, there are more private areas if preferred or if a treatment area or procedure is particularly sensitive.
Can I get appointments early in the AM, late in the evening, or on weekends?
Yes. We have early morning and evening appointments that vary by day. Please contact us at 607-973-2107 to claim your spot! Weekends are not available.
What if I am seeing a chiropractor, trainer, massage therapist or another practitioner for my problem?
Providers such as these offer valuable services that can be helpful with managing many conditions. Physical therapists and chiropractors have similar levels of education, treat many of the same conditions and often serve very similar patients, but will likely do so with different treatment philosophies, though even this can vary. Other professionals and para-professionals such as trainers and massage therapist offer only a small percentage of what a proper physical therapy program should entail. Only a physical therapist can provide physical therapy, but sometimes it is beneficial for patients to receive services from a variety of different places simultaneously. What’s right for you can only be determined by a team approach between you, your providers, and your physical therapist.
What is your cancellation policy?
Appointments can be rescheduled or cancelled with a call to our office 607-973-2107. Failure to show up for an appointment without calling or cancellation of the appointment with less than 24 hours (one business day) notice will result in a late cancelation/no show fee of $25 for follow up visits or $50 for initial visits/evaluations/consultations.
