One of the most important things to know is that you do not need a physician’s referral to begin physical therapy in Alabama. This is called Direct Access. It puts you in control of your healthcare, allowing you to seek treatment for muscle and joint problems immediately, without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy are highly trained to be your first point of contact. They can evaluate your condition, provide a diagnosis for issues within our scope of practice, and begin treatment right away. 

Saves You Time: Get evaluated and start treatment faster.

Saves You Money: Avoid the cost of an unnecessary physician visit.

Leads to Better Outcomes: Research shows that starting physical therapy sooner leads to a quicker recovery.

If your therapist determines that your condition requires medical attention from a physician, we will communicate with your primary care doctor or help you find the right specialist to ensure you receive the appropriate care.

Your first appointment is the foundation for your entire recovery program. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete your new patient paperwork. This visit will last approximately one hour and will be a dedicated one-on-one session with your physical therapist.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. The Conversation (Subjective History): Your therapist will begin by simply talking with you. This is your opportunity to tell your story. You’ll discuss your current problem, your symptoms, your medical history, how your pain is impacting your life, and, most importantly, what you hope to achieve through therapy.
   
   
2. The Physical Assessment (Objective Evaluation): Next, your therapist will conduct a thorough physical examination. This may include:

• Movement Screens: Assessing how you walk, bend, and move in general.
• Range of Motion Measurement: Measuring the flexibility and mobility of your joints.
• Strength Testing: Evaluating the strength of the muscles supporting the affected area.
• Palpation: Using their hands to feel for tenderness, swelling, or tightness in the muscles and joints.
• Specialized Tests: Performing specific tests to help diagnose your condition, such as tests for ligament stability or nerve involvement.

3. The Plan of Care: Based on the evaluation, your therapist will explain their findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. They will provide you with a physical therapy diagnosis and work with you to create a personalized Plan of Care. This plan will outline your treatment goals, the types of treatments you will receive, and an estimated frequency and duration of your therapy sessions.
   
   
4. Beginning Treatment: In most cases, your treatment will begin on the very first day. You will likely receive some initial hands-on manual therapy and be taught your first set of exercises for your home program.

To make your first visit as smooth and productive as possible, please remember to bring the following:

• Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes that allow you to move freely and allow the therapist to access the area being treated. Athletic shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers are ideal.
• Photo ID and Insurance Card: We will need to make a copy of your identification and any health insurance cards.
• New Patient Paperwork: You can download and complete your paperwork from our website before you arrive to save time.
• List of Medications: Please bring a list of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are currently taking.
• Physician’s Referral (if you have one): While not required, if your doctor has given you a referral or any special instructions, please bring them with you.

We are honored to be your choice for physical therapy in Rainsville. Our team is ready to welcome you and get you started on your path to recovery.

Contact our friendly front office team today at 256-638-2831 to schedule your first appointment.