FAQs

We pride ourselves in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and want to ensure that your physical therapy experience is a positive one. Below we have answered some questions on what to expect; if you should have more specific questions, just ask when you call to schedule your appointment.

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy (PT), also known as physiotherapy, is one of the allied health professions that treats acute and chronic pain as well as movements and physical impairments. This is done by using evidence-based kinesiology, exercise prescriptions, health education, mobilization, and electrical and physical diagnostics.

Physical therapy is used to improve a patient’s physical functions through physical examination, diagnosis, prognosis, patient education, physical intervention, rehabilitation, disease prevention and health promotion.

What do physical therapists do?

Physical therapists are highly educated and licensed health care professionals who help patients improve or restore mobility; in many cases they help patients reduce pain and avoid the need for surgery or long-term use of prescription medications.

Physical therapists examine, evaluate, and treat patients whose conditions limit their ability to move and function in daily life. Your physical therapist’s overall goal is to maintain, restore, or improve your mobility and help reduce your pain.

In most states, you can make an appointment with a physical therapist without a physician referral. Whether this is your first visit or you’ve been treated by a physical therapist in the past, there are things you can do to make your visit as successful as possible.

How should I prepare for my visit?

Before your visit, make a list of any questions that you have to make the best use of your time with your physical therapist.
Write down any symptoms you have and for how long you have had them. If you have more than one symptom, begin with the one that is the most bothersome to you. You should note if it is better or worse with certain activities, movements, or positions.
Write down key information about your medical history, even if it seems unrelated to the condition for which you are seeing the physical therapist. For example: Make a list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements that you are taking.
Make a note of any important personal information, including any recent stressful events, injuries, incidents, or environmental factors that you believe might have contributed to your condition.
Make a list of any medical conditions of your parents or siblings.
Bring a list of the names of your physician and other health care professionals that you would like your physical therapist to contact regarding your evaluation and your progress.
When you call to make your appointment, ask whether you should wear or bring a certain type of clothing when you come for your first visit. You may want to avoid tight or formal clothes, in case the therapist wants you to engage in activities during the first session

Don't See Your Question?

Do You Participate With My Insurance?

Innovative Physical Therapy accepts most insurances, however, for specific information, contact us for verification. 443-512-8337 or contact us here.

Carefirst Community Health Plan of Maryland
Carefirst Medicare Advantage
UnitedHealthcare
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Medicare and Medicaid
Johns Hopkins Healthcare
Maryland Physicians Care
TRICARE
UnitedHealthCare
Veterans Administration
All Auto/Workers’ Compensation Insurances
Amerigroup
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
Cigna Healthspring
Humana Military
Medicare / Medicaid
Motor Vehicle Accident
All PPO Networks
Priority Partners
Maryland Physicians Care

What Happens If I'm Late Or Cancel My Appointment?

Arrive for treatment sessions at the scheduled time or a few minutes early so you are prepared. Late arrival may affect not only your 1-on-1 time with the therapist, but that of other patients in the clinic.

Actively participate in the discussion to determine visit frequency and work in partnership with the physical therapist to achieve your treatment goals.

Show up for appointments. Failure to show for an appointment and not calling to cancel the visit may result in a fee and is disruptive to the physical therapist’s schedule. If an emergency prevents you from attending, try to provide adequate notice. It is important to review the facility’s financial and cancellation policy prior to the start of treatment.

If you plan to discontinue therapy or change the frequency of treatment because of personal or financial considerations, discuss this with your physical therapist.