October is National Physical Therapy Month and currently nine million adults undergo some form of physical therapy every year for treatment of diseases and injuries. Patients who undergo physical therapy participate in a series of therapeutic exercises designed to help manage their disease or improve function after an injury. This month we will be answering frequently asked questions regarding physical therapy, as well as, informing you of the benefits physical therapy can have on your body and your budget.
Isn’t Physical Therapy Just for Athletes?
No, physical therapy is a treatment everyone can benefit from when suffering from a disease or injury or functional loss. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to receive treatment or gain the benefits that come out of participating in physical therapy.
Do I Need a Referral from My Doctor to See a Physical Therapist?
Many patients are under the impression that they need to get a referral to undergo physical therapy. The state of Illinois has Direct Access to physical therapy, which means you can call and make an appointment. Some insurances still require a referral (Medicare), but many do not. Our staff will make sure you understand what your insurance requires before making an appointment.
Is it Covered by My Insurance?
Most insurance companies cover physical therapy, but it can vary depending on what type of insurance you have. The more medically necessary the physical therapy is, the more your insurance should be willing to cover. Treatments such as fitness and wellness programs, sports enhancement trainings, and health education classes are physical therapy services your insurance will not cover. If you do not have health insurance you can still undergo physical therapy, but the cost will have to be paid out of pocket or you will have to create a payment plan.
Benefits of Undergoing Physical Therapy.
Those suffering from diabetes can benefit from doing the exercises in physical therapy because they help them effectively control their blood
sugar. Those who may have suffered a heart attack, can regain their strength through the conditioning that they partake in while receiving treatment. The treatment for those who suffer from lung disease can help clear up any fluid in their lungs. As mentioned in last month’s blog, women who suffer from PCOS improved their symptoms by exercising. That also applies to women who suffer from health issues such as breast cancer, pelvic pain, and urinary incontinence. The exercises done in physical therapy can help them improve their symptoms as well.
Affordable.
Physical therapy is a cost effective option when compared to other medical treatments. Early physical therapy has been shown to save patients with low back pain up to $3,000 per episode compared to not having physical therapy. At Touchette, physical therapy provides our patients with the opportunity to take a hands-on approach with a licensed physical therapist to manage chronic disease or recover after injury to live their best life possible. We partner with Professional Therapy Services, Inc., to provide physical therapy services at two convenient locations. Learn more about the services we provide and how you can get started here.