FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / About Physical Therapy Treatments

S.P.O.R.T. Physical Therapy is dedicated to providing every patient with the information and resources they need to get the most out of their physical therapy treatments. We’ve taken some time to answer some of the most common questions we receive about our PT treatments and services.

How long will each treatment last?

Typically treatments last 45-90 minutes per visit.

How many visits will I need?

This varies from patient to patient. Depending on your condition and its severity, you may need as little as one visit or months of care. Your medical history and diagnosis will determine how many visits are required.

Why is physical therapy a good choice?

If you are suffering from pain, a physical therapist can not only help alleviate your pain, but treat it at its source. While physical therapy is not right for everyone, PT can help treat movement disorders and relieve pain associated with movements and neuro-musculoskeletal disorders.

What do physical therapists do?

Physical therapists are experts in movement and function, and treat patients with orthopedic problems such as lower back pain, knee injuries, etc. While physical therapists do work to correct injuries, a huge part of physical therapy programs is helping prevent injury, loss of movement, and reduce the risk of overworked muscles. Many physical therapists work with athletes to ensure they are operating at peak performance. Education also plays a large role in physical therapy. Our goal is to provide patients with the resources they need to take care of themselves and prevent further injuries.

Why are people referred to physical therapy?

Typically patients with movement dysfunctions are referred to physical therapy to alleviate pain and restore movement. If your ability to move certain parts of your body limits your ability to complete daily activities, you may be a good candidate for physical therapy. A physical therapy program is designed to help restore your body’s ability to naturally move and reduce associated pains.

Who will see me?

Developing a one-on-one relationship with each of our patients is a top priority for our physical therapists, so you will typically work with the same therapist through every step of treatment. Working with a single therapist helps create continuity of care and can help speed your recovery.

Does S.P.O.R.T. Physical Therapy Clinic treat children?

We treat patients 8 and older with a variety of diagnoses.

Is physical therapy painful?

One of the primary objectives of physical therapy for many patients is pain relief. This is often accomplished through modalities such as electrical stimulation, moist heat or cold therapy, and ultrasound. Movement can also provide pain relief, and your physical therapist will provide you with manual techniques and exercises that can relieve your pain and recover your range of motion, endurance, and strength.

For some patients, physical therapy may be painful. For example, recovering range of motion from total knee replacement or shoulder surgery may be painful. Your physical therapist will work with you to help develop a treatment plan that helps you recover, but it is important to communicate if your treatment is painful. This helps your therapist adjust your care accordingly.

What happens if my problem or pain returns?

It is not uncommon to experience a flare-up. If you do experience a flare-up, please give us a call. Depending on the severity, you may need to receive additional treatment, see your physician, or simply alter your daily activities or exercise routine.

Can my therapist provide me with a diagnosis?

While your physical therapist is an important part of your medical team, in most states physical therapists cannot make a medical diagnosis. Typically, your physician provides you with a medical diagnosis and may provide you with a prescription for physical therapy.

Is my therapist licensed?

All of our physical therapists are licensed in both Idaho and Washington.

For additional questions, information please contact us at one of the following locations:

Warner Clinic: (208) 746-7573

Orchards Clinic: (208) 746-0214

Email address: sportpt@sportptclinic.com

We look forward to hearing from you and are happy to address any concerns you may have.