Frequently Asked Questions
Physical therapists are experts trained in the evaluation and treatment of muscle, joint, and nerve dysfunction. We are trained specifically to improve movement and function, relieve pain, and expand movement potential. Physical therapy is often the treatment of choice in situations where pain impairs function, in recovering from an injury or surgery, and in recovering from a disease process or illness. Physical therapists also teach adaptive and physical coping skills in dealing with impaired function from a disease, injury or illness.
On your first visit, your therapist will perform a thorough examination of the problem. The examination involves a history, tests and measurements, postural and movement analysis, and palpation to determine muscular and joint involvement. Following the evaluation, these findings will be discussed with you and a physical therapy plan of care will be developed by you and your therapist. Treatment is rendered on the first visit as appropriate.
Treatment is based on the initial examination findings along with ongoing reassessment and evaluation. Treatment may consist of a variety of hands-on joint and soft tissue treatment techniques, gentle exercise techniques, pain reducing modalities, and education in self-management skills. Treatments are designed to increase motion and strength, reduce pain, and most importantly, restore function. Patients are typically involved in an active exercise program at home and are educated in ways to speed recovery and prevent recurrence of the problem.
You should arrive 15 minutes early for your scheduled appointment so that you can fill out any necessary registration forms. If you would like to fill out your new patient forms ahead of time, you can download them from our Patient Resources page. You will need to bring your insurance card, your photo ID, a list of current medications, and your physician's prescription or referral if one was provided to you (A physician's prescription is no longer required to see a physical therapist. Certain insurance companies may still require a physician's prescription for physical therapy, but our friendly staff is happy to assist you in understanding insurance benefits and requirements).
The first session will last approximately one hour. Subsequent sessions are 30 minutes to 1 hour in length.
Typically, treatment should begin as early as possible. Treating a problem early helps to prevent it from becoming chronic and in the prevention of future problems. This decreases the length of time you may require treatment and reduces healthcare costs.
Definitely. When you have a problem you think may be helped by physical therapy ask your doctor or give us a call and we will help you to determine if this is a problem that may be helped by physical therapy. We work together with doctors, specialists, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals in order for you to have the best physical therapy outcome and experience.
A doctor referral/prescription is no longer required to see a physical therapist which means you can feel better now, and we can see you right away! Certain insurance companies may still require a physician’s prescription for physical therapy, but the friendly staff at Northern Rehab is happy to assist patients in understanding their insurance benefits and requirements related to physical therapy.
Absolutely! The decision of where you go to receive treatment is yours. If you have a specific therapist or practice you would like to go to, you should let your doctor or insurance company know this. Not all physical therapists or practices are the same and the choice of your provider is yours. Sometimes your physician will recommend a specific therapist or practice to you, sometimes your insurance company will require you to go to specific therapists or practices. You always have the right to ask for a specific provider. If we are not “in network” with your specific insurance company, many have out of network options that still provide coverage and your physical therapist will work with you to assure the best outcome in the most affordable manner.
Most insurance companies do cover physical therapy services. The amount and type of coverage varies. It is always best to check with your insurance company regarding specific coverage guidelines. Our office staff will also verify your specific coverage guidelines at your first visit.
On a waitlist or waiting weeks for a physical therapy appointment? Northern Rehab can see you within a few days from when you call for an appointment. We prioritize your physical therapy needs and will get you in as soon as possible. Just give us a call and our office staff will assist you in scheduling an appointment!
Our convenient locations:
- DeKalb | 3266 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, IL 60115 | 815-756-8524
- Genoa | 540 East Main Street, Suite 5, Genoa, IL 60135 | 815-784-6417
- Rochelle | 1211 Currency Court, Suite C, Rochelle, IL 61068 | 815-562-3299
Just give us a call and our office staff will assist you in setting up an appointment.
You should wear loose comfort clothes that you can easily move in. If we are seeing you for your knees, please bring or wear shorts. We also have gowns and shorts available in the clinic to use as needed.
Please communicate your needs with your therapist! We will always try to accommodate you to provide the best experience with us. However, using some gym equipment may be appropriate to achieve your best outcome. Please be sure to discuss your concerns with your therapist!
Northern Rehab is outstanding! Very knowledgeable and responsive. Excellent service from everyone. I came in with a cane, went out dancing and running! Thank you!
Northern Rehab does a great job of working with you to get the best possible result, in my case rehab for double knee replacement. I felt Brandon definitely helped me to exceed the goals we both set for my recovery. I felt I got great care with Northern Rehab!