Questions people ask before they book.

Questions people ask before they book.

Here is what people usually want to know before their first appointment. If your question isn’t here, call any of our five clinics at (757) 742-3778 and we’ll answer it.

What should I expect during physical therapy sessions?

Your first visit starts with a cause-first evaluation: a full history, a movement assessment, and a look at what’s actually driving your pain, not just where it hurts. From there we build hands-on treatment and exercises picked for your goals, plus coaching on posture and body mechanics so the problem doesn’t just come back.

Do I need a referral from my doctor before attending physical therapy?

No. Virginia law lets you start physical therapy without a doctor’s referral. You can be evaluated and treated for up to 30 days before a referral might be needed. It’s one of the reasons people get started here faster.

What do I need to wear or bring with me?

Wear comfortable clothes that move with you and won’t restrict circulation. If your therapist needs to see the area that hurts, loose or athletic clothing helps. Bring your medical history, any imaging, and your doctor’s notes if you have them.

Is there anything I can do before my appointment to prepare?

Come rested so you can give the session your full attention. It also helps to know what pain medication you’ve taken recently, if any, so your therapist can plan the visit around it.

How long will my physical therapy sessions last?

Most sessions run 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your condition and what we’re working on that day. Your therapist will give you a real estimate at your first visit.

Are there any exercises I can do at home between appointments?

Yes, and we expect you to. Your therapist will give you specific exercises to do between visits. Doing them is what turns a good session into faster progress.

What if I have questions after my physical therapy session?

Ask your therapist before you leave, or call the clinic directly. You should never leave a session unsure about what happens next.

Will insurance cover my physical therapy?

Most plans cover physical therapy, and what you owe depends on your specific plan, copay, and deductible. We run a courtesy check of your benefits before you start, and we’ll call to verify your coverage. If you’re uninsured or facing a high deductible, ask about our cash-pay rates.

How often will I need to attend physical therapy sessions?

That depends on your goals and what we find at your evaluation. Most people attend two or three times a week, and a typical course runs several weeks depending on what we find. Your therapist will lay out specifics for your case at your first visit.

How long will it take for me to see results?

Everyone heals on a different timeline, so we won’t promise a number that isn’t true for you. Most people start noticing change within a few weeks. The more you follow through on your home program, the faster that happens.

Will my physical therapist be able to answer any questions I have about my condition?

Yes. You work one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, every visit, and that person owns your case from evaluation to discharge. Bring your questions. That’s what the visit is for.

What if I feel too much pain during a session?

Tell your therapist right away. We adjust the intensity or the technique on the spot so treatment stays effective without becoming something you dread.

How will I know when I no longer need physical therapy?

You won’t wonder. Every plan here has an endpoint we set together at the start, and your therapist will tell you when you’ve hit your goals and are ready to move on.