~ Why Pelvic Physical Therapy? ~
How does physical therapy help with pelvic pain?
Muscles, connective tissue (fascia and scars), and nerves in the pelvis and surrounding regions may all contribute to pelvic pain. Physical therapists are well trained to evaluate and treat muscle spasm and trigger points that can result from muscle imbalance, compression or stretch injuries, and trauma.
Are Kegels good for everyone?
No. Kegel exercises, or pelvic muscle contractions, may be helpful for some patients with certain symptoms, such as stress incontinence. However, when done incorrectly, or if performed with a shortened or painful muscle, symptoms may remain unchanged or worsen.
Why do I need to have my pelvic muscles examined?
If your symptoms involve pain, weakness, or coordination of the pelvic muscles, you will need a pelvic muscle examination for the most comprehensive assessment of your problem. This assessment provides important information regarding your individualized physical therapy treatment plan, and full recovery may not be achieved without it. However, you always have the option to defer or decline this or any part of your examination and treatment.
Why choose Fundamental Physical Therapy?
By staying with a small, independent clinic, you are choosing a therapy experience that is catered to you and your needs. As a small clinic, you will be dealing only with your therapist, no front desk or billing specialists. Your questions can be directly answered by the therapist that is treating you and your care can be tailored directly to your needs and your schedule. I strive to be available via email, texting or phone for concerns as they arise and to support you throughout your pelvic health journey. You may reach out with questions even after your care has finished, or come in for a “tune up” visit as needed in the future. I want to develop a relationship that will extend beyond your treatment sessions and throughout the seasons of your life. I love what I do and want to get you back to doing what you love!
~Appointments~
What happens on my first visit?
I will talk with you to learn about your symptoms and your goals. I will review your medical history and forms with you, answer your questions and learn more about what brings you to therapy. I will perform a comprehensive, hands-on evaluation of your overall alignment, flexibility and movement to determine the root source of your symptoms. This may include a visual and manual internal and external examination of your pelvic muscles. Biofeedback with an external or internal vaginal or rectal sensor may also be a part of your examination. Not all parts of the evaluation will necessarily be completed on the first visit but may continue throughout your care as you progress.
We will discuss findings and treatment recommendations, start you on a home program and answer any additional questions.
Do I need to come early?
Client history forms will be sent to you prior to your first visit. By having paperwork completed, you can ensure that your evaluation is thorough and valuable. If, before your first visit, you have completed all paperwork, your arrival time should be at the time of your appointment. If you have not completed your paperwork, you should allow 10-15 minutes to fully complete this prior to your appointment time. Prepare to come a few minutes early to your follow up sessions to allow time to use the restroom, if needed, prior to seeing your therapist.
What should I bring?
**Completed client forms for your first visit (or submit online). These forms take time and thought and should be done in advance of your visit. If you do not bring them with you, you will need to fill them out prior to seeing the therapist.
**A referral from your physician, if required by your insurance company and you plan to submit for reimbursement. If you are not sure whether you need a referral for insurance purposes, check with your insurance provider.
**You may bring a separate list of your current medications, past surgeries and any specific tests / results with you as well.
**Any bladder, bowel or food diary that the therapist has requested you complete.
What should I wear?
Wear or bring comfortable clothing that you can move in for your first and follow up visits. This may include comfortable shorts, yoga or sweat pants, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, and a shirt. Women may want to bring a sports bra as some of the assessment and treatment will require us to look at your spine and abdomen. I also have gowns for your convenience.
What happens if I start my cycle?
I am still able to see you if you start your period. In most cases this will not disrupt exercise or manual treatment, although there may be some interventions that we will defer until your cycle ends based on your comfort and/ or treatment plan. Contact me prior to changing your appointment if you have any questions.
Can I bring my spouse?
Yes. You may bring a spouse, partner or friend with you to any or all visits. I am happy to work with you together on pain management techniques, home exercises and general education about your condition.
Can I bring my children?
I would love to meet your family! However, it is preferable for you to come to your initial and follow up treatments without your children if possible. This allows for open discussion of personal information, as well as comprehensive examination and treatment. I understand that many of my patients are busy moms, and that childcare issues may be a factor from time to time. Please keep your appointment and come as planned if this occurs and we will do my best to accommodate your needs accordingly. (Infants that are content in their carriers are welcome!)
~ Scheduling and Fees ~
How many visits will I need?
The number of treatment sessions and frequency of visits will vary according to your diagnosis, duration and intensity of your symptoms, other medical and musculoskeletal contributors, and your consistency with attendance and home program. I will be able to give you a plan of care and treatment goals at your first visit and will continue to discuss and update this throughout your treatment.
Do I have the option to cancel or reschedule?
Fundamental Physical Therapy aims to provide clients with the highest quality of treatment and wellness care. I strive to make each visit productive and to build upon the previous sessions. Progress and improvement are made with consistent attendance at appointments and regular completion of home exercises. Please make every effort to attend your scheduled appointments in order to gain the most from your therapy. If you find that you are unable to make your appointment, please let me know as far in advance as possible. By canceling your appointment at least 24 hours in advance, I am able to offer needed treatment to other patients by re-booking the vacant slot. In an effort to eliminate unused appointments there is a 24-hour cancellation policy: No-shows and cancellations with less than 24 hours will be charged $70. We strive to be flexible and will work to reschedule your appointment the same week if possible. Cancellation fee is waived if you are able to reschedule within the same week.
I can’t come as often as the therapist recommends; will you still see me?
YES! I understand that many clients are juggling many other time and financial commitments, and that this may at times affect their ability to attend physical therapy. My treatment philosophy relies on both clinic treatment and a home program. The best outcomes come from consistent care and compliance with instructions for home exercises and behavior modifications. Decreased frequency of treatment sessions may prolong your symptoms; however, I will work with you to maximize your time in the clinic as well as emphasize your home exercises so that you can progress you toward your goals between visits.
How much will pelvic therapy cost?
Initial Evaluation appointments are $220 for a 1-hour session with the physical therapist.
Follow Up appointments are $120 for a 45 - 60-minute session with the physical therapist.
Do you take my insurance?
I am not affiliated with any insurance company. I am a fee-for-service provider meaning you pay directly for your care. You have the option of submitting your physical therapy receipts to your medical insurance for reimbursement via your out-of-network benefits. Please see Insurance Worksheet to help you navigate your insurance benefits.
I do accept payment via credit card, HSA card and check. A credit card will be required to be put on file at time of your first visit. Full payment is due at time of service.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
North Carolina is a direct access state for physical therapy services meaning you do not need a referral from a physician in order to receive physical therapy services. However, pelvic health problems may occur in conjunction with other serious medical problems. Thus, I may request a referral from your medical provider prior to your first session or during your treatment course to ensure adequate medical screening and testing. This will allow me to collaborate and communicate with your health care provider to ensure comprehensive treatment and wellness.
Some insurance companies will require a physician’s order in order to cover physical therapy services. Check with your insurance company if you are planning to submit your visits for reimbursement.
