Will Your Patients Benefit From Physical Therapy?

As a physician, your goal is to determine the best course of treatment for each patient. A physical therapy evaluation and treatment plan can produce successful outcomes for those experiencing pain, limited range of motion, or other debilitating symptoms from a variety of common ailments. Doctors familiar with the benefits of physical therapy recognize that it is a proven method of treatment that enables patients to achieve optimal physical health and wellness.

By helping to alleviate pain and restore full motor function, physical therapists bring relief to individuals with problems ranging from neck pain to ankle sprains – and everything in between. You can be confident that when you refer patients to a highly trained and educated professional physical therapist, those struggling with pain and/or impaired mobility can soon return to their normal activities and enjoy life more fully.

Who Needs Physical Therapy Treatment?

While each individual and every diagnosis is different, physical therapy is often called for when patients have an injury and/or pain; especially when it hinders their movement and interferes with their ability to work, take care of their families, and participate in their favorite activities. The ability to complete routine tasks, participate in sports, or simply go for a walk around the neighborhood can pose a challenge to people hampered by pain, weakness or limited range of motion.

That’s when physical therapy can help. Physical therapy can alleviate pain quickly and restore full motion to joints from head to toe. Some of the many conditions that can benefit from physical therapy treatment are:

• Bone fractures
• Total joint replacements
• Low back pain
• Sprains and strains
• Neck pain
• Injuries from on-the-job, automobile, or at-home accidents
• Osteoarthritis pain
• Stroke
• Shoulder and rotator cuff pain
• Tendonitis
• Sports injuries

Whether a patient is suffering from common aches and pains or more advanced neuromusculoskeletal issues, physical therapy can help.

How Physical Therapists Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility

Physical therapists share your goal of improving patients’ health and well-being. They are skilled specialists with extensive education and training relating to the musculoskeletal system. And they focus on each individual, isolating the cause of his or her pain and creating a treatment plan that will work for the patient’s abilities and goals.

When patients are referred to physical therapy, the first step is to perform an extensive physical therapy evaluation. The physical therapist will review the patient’s medical history and doctor’s diagnosis, and then conduct an examination to assess body mechanics, flexibility, strength, and posture.

Following the initial evaluation, the physical therapist will create a customized plan that incorporates a variety of passive and active treatments. Some are designed to manage pain and help the body heal itself by improving blood and oxygen flow. Others are intended to stabilize the affected area and build muscle and joint endurance, thereby restoring full motor function. In addition, physical therapists teach their patients how to prevent further damage and future injuries, and to manage their condition to achieve long-term health benefits.

With this broad approach, physical therapy can heal patients while avoiding the drawbacks of other treatment options, such as the potential side effects of prescription medication or the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.

Exploring Physical Therapy as a Treatment Option

Patients who have suffered an injury or are experiencing chronic pain may ask you for a prescription for physical therapy. If you have limited experience with physical therapy, you may feel uncertain as to whether it is the right treatment for an individual’s condition. However, you can be assured that a qualified, licensed physical therapist shares your concern for the patient’s best interests, and will provide an informed recommendation about whether physical therapy can help.

If you serve patients in St. Louis County and are seeking a high-quality physical therapy center in Eureka, Missouri, you should know that many area doctors trust the skilled staff at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. Owner Sean Quinn and his team of professionals have served Missouri residents since 2004, and offer a wide variety of physical therapy services designed to get results. You are welcome to contact Sean or any of his highly qualified staff to discuss a patient’s condition before prescribing physical therapy.

The Sports and Physical Therapy Center Offers High-Quality Care for Your Patients

If patients come to you for prescription to licensed physical therapists in Eureka, you’ll want to ensure that they receive the best quality care. Take the time to research local clinics, and ask your colleagues and patients about their experiences with specific practices. As you gather information, you’re likely hear many positive reviews about the team at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. Sean and his staff are thoroughly trained, knowledgeable, and compassionate physical therapists with a proven record of getting results. You can be sure they will provide each of your patients with exceptional care.

Contact the Physical Therapy Experts in Eureka

Finding the best physical therapy services for your patients is as easy as contacting the experts at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. The clinic’s therapists will be happy to discuss your patients’ symptoms, as well as your specific concerns and questions. You are also invited to tour the facility and learn more about the equipment and treatments. Call 636-938-4065 or visit http://www.ptstl.com for more information about the staff, services, and proven results of the Sports and Physical Therapy Center.

Please consider the following important issue impacting private practice physical therapy clinics such as ours.

 Health Insurance Companies set up financial contracts with all healthcare providers in order to establish operating and reimbursement standards. These contracts are solely based on the bargaining power of the healthcare provider and the needs of the insurance company. These contracts have no relation to the quality of service provided by the hospital or clinic.

Over the last 20 years, large hospital systems have been given more favorable contracts than private practice clinics, especially in the field of physical therapy. Based purely on the size of the organization, insurance companies would be more willing to listen to the needs of the healthcare provider. More often than not, the needs of large hospital systems were taken into consideration because of the number of providers and services the system provided.

Conversely, the needs of private practice clinics and their owners are rarely taken into consideration when contracting reimbursement rates and patient co-pays. Without the benefit of having hundreds of providers and a multitude of services, private practice clinic owners are unable to negotiate for the basic needs just to maintain operations. Requests for reviews and appeals to the insurance companies routinely fall on deaf ears. Health Insurance companies are impeding Fair Trade Competition by deliberately paying large hospital systems more than private practice clinics for the same services.

Thus, we are taking our fight to the state legislature.  We are fighting for fair pay.  The insurance industry routinely discriminates against small businesses by paying hospitals as much as 100% more than they reimburse for the same services we provide.  I’m asking that you please contact your state representative and respectfully request their support by co-sponsoring bill HB 1355 and state senator for SB 644.

If you do not know your state representative or senator you may look them up at www.house.mo.gov in the “Legislature Look-up” but a 4 digit zip code extension is needed.  Your 4 digit zip code extension can be found at  zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp.

For quick reference:

• Representative Tim Jones represents most of the Eureka and Wildwood area – (573) 751-0562
• Senator Brian Nieves represents most of the Eureka and Wildwood area – (573) 751-3678
• Representative Paul Curtman represents most of the Pacific area – (573) 751-3776
• Senator Ryan McKenna represents most of the Pacific area – (573) 751-1492

Thank you for your help!

How to Avoid a Misdiagnosis in Physical Therapy

Physicians and other healthcare providers have long recognized the value of physical therapy services in relieving pain and treating injuries related to sports, accidents, and on-the-job incidents. As with any healthcare procedure, there are occasional instances of physical therapy patients receiving a misdiagnosis, which is an incorrect conclusion about the cause of a medical condition. A misdiagnosis can occur even when a trained healthcare provider evaluates a patient’s condition, assesses the symptoms, and thoroughly analyzes all of the available evidence – which is why patients should take proactive efforts to minimize this possibility.

While the odds of a misdiagnosis are low when being treated by a physical therapist, it has been know to happen. There is a level of risk involved with any type of healthcare treatment, and even the best healthcare systems have instances of misdiagnosis. In fact, the New England Journal of Medicine stated that 35% of physicians reported errors in their own or a family member’s care.¹ But patients are increasingly empowering themselves by taking their healthcare into their own hands. When you arm yourself with information, you can learn how to avoid a misdiagnosis.

How Patients Can Help Prevent a Misdiagnosis

People seek physical therapy services for a variety of reasons. Some want to alleviate chronic pain. Others are recovering from an injury. Still others are seeking to restore mobility so they can return to their favorite activities. No matter what reason you may have for starting physical therapy treatment, knowing how to avoid a misdiagnosis is one of the ways you can improve your experience, and make it a success.

Here are four ways to help prevent a misdiagnosis:

1. Research your family medical history. Too often, patients discover after the fact that their symptoms have a logical explanation based on their family’s medical history. With readily available online tools, you can create a family medical history. Sharing your history will help your physical therapist and other healthcare providers better evaluate your condition – and avoid a misdiagnosis.
2. Be curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have any doubts regarding your diagnosis, ask, “Could my condition possibly stem from something else?” Challenge healthcare providers to explore all of the possible causes and take their time in evaluating your condition.
3. Find an advocate. If you don’t feel comfortable asking questions or challenging healthcare providers, take a friend or family member with you. An advocate can remind you to speak up for yourself or write down notes while you listen to the physical therapist.
4. Get a second opinion. And if necessary, get a third, fourth and fifth, until you are satisfied. The best approach is to not reveal the diagnosis you’ve been given. Simply present yourself and your symptoms, and let the next healthcare provider form their own independent diagnosis.

Physical therapy can bring relief to patients with a variety of injuries and ailments. When patients and physical therapists work together as a team, the chances of a misdiagnosis are reduced. In addition, the outcome can be more successful, with long-term benefits and improved overall wellness.

Do Your Homework Before Choosing a Physical Therapist

Regardless of whether your physician refers you to a particular physical therapy clinic, you have the right to choose your physical therapy provider, and to empower yourself with information regarding your therapist. First, do your homework. Ask friends, family, and your primary care provider for recommendations. Check that the physical therapists you’re considering are licensed Missouri physical therapists, have the required educational background, and participate in ongoing training to keep their skills and knowledge current. Next, conduct a search to see if your physical therapist of choice has experienced any malpractice claims or other adverse reports.

Misdiagnosis, misconduct, and malpractice in physical therapy are rare – but they still happen on occasion. From 1990 through 2006, the National Practitioner Databank lists 951 such reports against physical therapists and assistants.² These statistics demonstrate the importance of patients and physical therapists working together to avoid a misdiagnosis or other potential problem.

The Sports and Physical Therapy Center Is Your Partner in Health

If you live in St. Louis County and are seeking highly qualified physical therapists in Eureka, ask your physician, friends, and family about the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. You’ll likely receive strong recommendations for owner Sean Quinn and his team of thoroughly trained, knowledgeable, and licensed physical therapists.

Since 2004, Quinn’s team of professional physical therapists has provided top-quality care to their patients. They are dedicated to pursuing continuous training, with a goal of obtaining new skills and the latest treatment methods to incorporate into their practice. In addition, each member of the Sports and Physical Therapy Center staff looks for ways to improve operations in an effort to avoid situations that could lead to a misdiagnosis or breakdown in patient care. When you request a prescription for physical therapy from your physician, you can feel confident in the Sports and Physical Therapy Center’s proven record of successful outcomes.

Trust the Experts in Physical Therapy Treatment

If you need relief from pain, stiffness, or decreased flexibility that is adversely affecting your quality of life, your first step is to find a qualified physical therapy center in Eureka, Missouri. You can trust the experts at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center to help you get back on the road to wellness through results-focused physical therapy treatment.

Don’t live with pain. Contact your physician for a prescription, and call the Sports and Physical Therapy Center at 636-938-4065 to schedule an appointment for an evaluation. You’ll find more information on all the services provided by the Sports and Physical Therapy Center by visiting http://www.ptstl.com.

Sources:

¹ Blendon, Robert J., et al. “Views of Practicing Physicians and the Public on Medical Errors.” The New England Journal of Medicine. December 12, 2002. <http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMsa022151>.

² U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration. “Practitioners With Reports.” National Practitioner Databank: 2006 Annual Report. <http://www.npdb-hipdb.hrsa.gov/resources/reports/2006NPDBAnnualReport.pdf>.

Tips From a Physical Therapist on Building Strength and Mobility

Physical therapy offers much more than just pain relief – it can help you build strength and mobility, too. How does physical therapy build strength? Physical therapists engage patients in exercises to improve their range of motion, and increase joint and muscle function. They often collaborate with personal trainers to create long-term strength training and conditioning plans for their patients.

Many individuals come to physical therapy seeking relief from pain or to recover from an accident or injury.  During the course of treatment, patients often reach the point where they feel their muscle tone and flexibility improving; they realize they have the ability to become stronger and improve their long-term mobility.  Partnering with a personal trainer is often the next step for those individuals once they are discharged from therapy.  If your goals include building strength and increasing mobility, your physical therapist can get you started in achieving them.

Your Physical Therapist Can Help With Your Fitness Plan
The best solution for optimal physical fitness is to work with both a physical therapist and personal trainer. All licensed physical therapists have undergone extensive training and education in body mechanics, anatomy, and physiology to name a few. They are experts in how your body functions, which is why  choosing the right physical therapist can be the first step to improving your overall health and fitness.

Your physical therapist will assess your strength and mobility using a series of tests, as well as his or her observation skills. You’ll then collaborate in establishing your personal fitness goals and creating a custom physical therapy and exercise program that will help you achieve them. With expert physical therapist tips and guidance, you’ll soon feel stronger and more flexible.

When you’re ready to increase your endurance, stamina, and muscle strength after physical therapy, a personal trainer can begin assisting you through the next phase of your fitness plan. Working in partnership with your physical therapist and personal trainer, you’ll gain confidence as you strengthen your body and achieve your goals. In addition, these experts will help you avoid the injuries that can occur when you begin a training program.

Strengthen Muscles With Tips From a Personal Trainer
Anyone can build strength, improve flexibility and increase mobility, no matter what their age. Under the guidance
of a physical therapist and personal trainer, you’ll learn how to exercise safely and with proper form. (Brian Joggerst
– a personal trainer at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center in Eureka, Missouri – offers compelling reasons to begin your fitness plan)
•    Prevent Osteoporosis. Strength training puts stress on your bones, which causes your body to respond by building more bone. Increased bone density can prevent osteoporosis, or softening of the bones – which affects some 40 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Health.1
•    Prevent Falls. Strong muscles help protect joints and can prevent falls by improving balance and coordination.
•    Live Longer. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended that adults engage in muscle strengthening activities two or more times per week. Subsequent studies show that adherence to these guidelines is associated with survival benefits.2 Simply put, exercise and weight training, along with other preventative measures, appears to reduce mortality risk.
•    Stay fit. A personal strength and conditioning routine can prevent the muscle loss and fat gain that naturally occurs as we age.
•    Avoid injury. Proper form is essential when weight training. Physical therapists and personal trainers specialize in teaching you how to perform each exercise correctly, so that you’ll get the maximum benefit from your efforts and avoid injury.
•    Feel great. Not only can strength training increase your bone and muscle mass, and improve joint function, but it also makes you feel great!

Ready to enjoy the benefits of stronger muscles, improved flexibility, and increased mobility? Take the next step and seek out the services of a trained professional. (If you live in St. Louis County, personal trainer Brian Joggerst will help you take on the challenge – and succeed.)

Attain Optimal Fitness and Wellness at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center
People of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds have long realized the benefits of  physical therapy and rehab services when recovering from an accident, injury, surgery, or chronic pain. Today, a growing number of individuals are seeking physical therapy in conjunction with fitness training to help build muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance.

St. Louis County residents researching physical therapists in Eureka will find the Sports and Physical Therapy Center comes highly recommended by both physicians and patients. Owner Sean Quinn and his team of qualified physical therapists, together with personal trainer Brian Joggerst, are able to provide a full range of services to help clients get and stay fit. Whether you’re new to exercise or have already experienced the benefits of strength training, you can be confident you’re in good hands at this well-equipped  physical therapy center in Eureka, Missouri.

Countless individuals have improved their strength, increased their mobility, and achieved their fitness goals at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. With an entire team of experts focused on helping you get results, you’ve got nothing to lose – and a lifetime of fitness to gain.

Want to learn more about strength and conditioning training? Visit  http://www.ptstl.com. To schedule a physical therapy evaluation, contact your physician for a prescription and then call the Sports and Physical Therapy Center at 636-938-4065.

Sources:
1National Institute of Health. What Is Osteoporosis? Fast Facts: An Easy-to-Read Series of Publications for the
Public. <http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/Osteoporosis/osteoporosis_ff.asp>

2American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Volume 40, Issue 5, May 2011. Adherence to the 2008 Adult Physical
Activity Guidelines and Mortality Risk. <http://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(11)00064-X/fulltext>

Why Physicians Refer Patients to a Physical Therapist

If performing your everyday tasks, job duties, or favorite activities is difficult because of limited mobility or pain, you may benefit from physical therapy treatment. Doctors recognize the effectiveness of physical therapy, and often suggest it for treating back, neck and shoulder pain; injuries; osteoarthritis; and other short- and long-term health problems. Patients recovering from cardiac and joint replacement surgeries benefit from physical therapy, too.

With extensive training in musculoskeletal disorders, physical therapists are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of conditions. They help alleviate your pain without drugs or invasive procedures, while providing support as you gain control of your health. Your physical therapist can also teach you how to improve your overall physical condition with strength building and flexibility exercises. When your body moves with ease, you’ll find more pleasure in every day activities. With physical therapy, you’ll soon be on your way to a lifetime of better health.

Wherever You’re Feeling Pain, Physical Therapy Can Help

Doctors use their education, training, and experience to determine if a patient is a good candidate for physical therapy treatment. Some of the many reasons your physician might refer you to a qualified physical therapist include:

• You have pain when moving one or both arms.
• Your back pain makes it difficult to walk, sit, or stand.
• Shoulder pain is keeping you awake at night.
• Going up and down stairs hurts your knees.
• A fall has resulted in an injury to your hip, shoulder, or arm.
• One or both knees feel unstable or are grinding.
• You’re concerned about falls, due to a loss of balance and flexibility.
• An automobile accident has resulted in headaches or neck pain.
• You have a tendon or ligament problem, such as tennis elbow or an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
• Your discomfort is interfering with your activities.

Physical therapy can also help with the general fatigue, weakness, and lack of coordination that may occur with a chronic health problem. Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, or rheumatoid arthritis are often referred by their healthcare providers to qualified physical therapists.

Your Physical Therapist Is Part of Your Healthcare Team

If your doctor feels your condition can be effectively treated by physical therapy, he or she will write a prescription for physical therapy treatment. Your first visit to a physical therapist will begin with a thorough evaluation. The exam includes a number of tests that establish your range of motion, balance, and muscle strength to name a few. The results of these tests, along with observations made by the physical therapist, will help determine which muscles and joints are causing your ailment.

Following your evaluation, your physical therapist will develop a personal treatment plan. As your partner in good health, your physical therapist will keep an open dialogue with you – as well as with your physician – throughout the course of your treatment. Your doctor’s prescription for physical therapy may recommend a certain number of visits; however, the duration of your treatment may vary based on your diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and physical condition.

Every Patient Is Different

All patients experience pain and recover from injuries differently. For example, while two people may suffer the same type of knee or shoulder injury, their physical abilities and level of discomfort may differ. A physician’s recommendation for physical therapy will be based on each patient’s unique needs.

If you’ve suffered an injury, are living with pain, are concerned about a lack of balance, or have a limited range of motion, ask your doctor about physical therapy and rehab services. Don’t wait for the pain to go away on its own. If you ignore pain, you risk exacerbating the underlying cause of your condition. Besides, no one has to live with pain when physical therapy can alleviate it and help the body heal itself – for good.

Ask Your Doctor for a Physical Therapy Prescription

Now that you know how physical therapy can help you regain strength and flexibility, and alleviate your pain, take the next step and ask your physician for a physical therapy prescription. In Missouri, you may see the physical therapist of your choice; however, you will need a physician’s prescription prior to seeking physical therapy treatment.

If you live in St. Louis County, you’ll find top-notch physical therapists in Eureka at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. Owner Sean Quinn and his qualified team of licensed physical therapists have extensive experience in evaluating and treating nearly every type of injury and debilitating condition. The Sports and Physical Therapy team is dedicated to making each patient’s experience a positive one by providing exceptional care and a results-focused treatment plan.

When you’re ready to see a physical therapy center in Eureka, Missouri, simply contact your physician for a prescription and then call the Sports and Physical Therapy Center for an evaluation. If you’re suffering from pain or discomfort that limits your activities, don’t wait any longer.

For more information on the services provided by the Sports and Physical Therapy Center, visit http://www.ptstl.com. If you have any questions about physical therapy or wish to schedule an appointment, call the center’s friendly and knowledgeable staff at 636-938-4065.

A Physical Therapist is a health-care professional that evaluates and provides treatment to individuals who are experiencing pain, limitations to their daily functions, suffered an injury, or are recovering from a surgery.  The goal of physical therapy is to develop, maintain, and restore the entire body to maximum movement and function, allowing an individual to participate in desired activities throughout their life. Physical therapy is practiced by a graduate schooled professional under the prescription of a physician. A physical therapist is a specialist skilled and educated specifically in proper rehabilitation (returning a person to their previous activities) and injury prevention.

Physical therapy includes providing treatment in situations where movement and function are threatened by aging, injury, disease, or environmental factors.  Strength, flexibility, balance, posture, body mechanics, coordination, endurance and general mobility (such as walking, stair climbing, getting in and out of a chair or bed) are components of movement and function that are evaluated. Physical therapists help people with orthopedic conditions such as low back pain or osteoporosis as well as joint and soft tissue injuries such as fractures and dislocations too.  They can also help with joint and soft tissue injuries such muscle strains, ligaments sprains, dislocations, and joint pain.

An important aspect to keep in mind about physical therapy is that each individual is different. People have different types of bodies, movement patterns, alignments, and habits. Physical therapists will assess each person and develop an individualized program to address their needs and deficits to reach their full potential.

In general, if a physical condition is preventing you from doing what you want to do, most likely a physical therapist can help.

What Qualifications Should You Look For in Your Physical Therapist?

Helping patients find relief from pain, overcome debilitating injuries, and become more physically fit are just a few of the daily job duties performed by skilled physical therapists. Each day, more people discover that physical therapy is an important step on their path to better health.

Individuals who are new to physical therapy may wonder if it’s the right treatment for their particular problem. They may also have questions about the training and qualifications required to become a physical therapist. The following information can help you make a sound decision about seeking physical therapy treatment, and choosing the right physical therapist for your needs.

Can You Benefit From Physical Therapy Treatment?

There are many benefits of physical therapy treatment. Contrary to what some people believe, it’s not limited to treating athletes with sports injuries and those who have suffered automobile accidents or strokes. Physical therapy has a wide variety of uses and can help you:

• If you have experienced a muscle strain or sprain.
• If you currently feel pain in your back, neck, shoulders or other joints.
• If you’d like to avoid invasive procedures and expensive drugs to manage or eliminate pain.
• If limited mobility in your shoulder, knee, or hip joints is affecting your daily activities.
• If you’ve been injured at work, or while performing routine duties.
• If pain or decreased flexibility is keeping you from participating in activities you used to enjoy.
• If you suffer with osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease.
• If your goals include staying active and maintaining mobility as long as possible.
• If you’re concerned about balance and preventing future injuries.

Physical therapy treatment incorporates a variety of hands-on methods to reduce pain fast, while restoring full range of motion to affected areas. After evaluating your condition, your physical therapist will design a treatment plan based on your goals and objectives. He or she will use a combination of manual therapy, strength training and conditioning, and other effective techniques. Instead of relying on drugs to mask your symptoms, your physical therapist will focus on helping your body heal itself by addressing the underlying cause of your discomfort. By completing your physical therapy plan, you can be back on the road to good health.

A skilled physical therapist can be a true partner in your health and well being. Next, we’ll review how to choose the right one.

Training Requirements and Qualifications for Physical Therapists

Before they begin practicing, physical therapists must undergo extensive training and education. The first step is earning a graduate degree from an accredited physical therapy program. Coursework typically includes anatomy, physiology, biology, biomechanics, human growth and development, exercise physiology, and pathology. Physical therapist training also includes clinical experience and differential diagnosis.

Before undertaking physical therapy job duties, graduates must pass a national licensure exam. In addition, each state sets its own standards for licensing physical therapists. Most require a minimum number of annual continuing education credits to remain a licensed physical therapist in good standing.

Review your physical therapist’s credentials to be sure a qualified, skilled expert is treating your condition. In addition to verifying his or her license status, you may want to consider additional factors, such as:

• Does the physical therapy clinic accept your insurance?
• Will the staff submit claims on your behalf to the insurance company?
• Is the environment comfortable and welcoming?
• Do you feel you are listened to, and that your therapist takes your goals and concerns into consideration?
• Does your physical therapist have good communication skills and compassion?

If you ever feel uncomfortable in your interactions with a physical therapist or clinic staff, you may need to keep searching for a qualified physical therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Try asking friends and family for their referrals. Or, consult your physician and request a prescription for physical therapy – he or she may be able to provide a recommendation.

Are You Ready to Find Relief With Physical Therapy?

Now that you know more about physical therapist training and licensing, perhaps you’re ready to begin your search for physical therapy and rehab services. In Missouri, you’ll need a physician’s prescription before seeking treatment – but you have the right to go to the qualified physical therapist of your choice.

When referring patients to physical therapists in Eureka, many physicians recommend the skilled team at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. From your first visit, owner Sean Quinn and his staff will make you feel welcome and well cared for. And you can be assured you’re in good hands, since each physical therapist at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center holds a graduate degree in physical therapy and is licensed to practice in Missouri.

The Sports and Physical Therapy Is Ready to Help You

Physical therapy is a source of relief for countless individuals. Whether you’re feeling pain, stiffness, or are simply unable to enjoy life as you once did, obtaining treatment from a reputable physical therapy center in Eureka, Missouri, can help you, too.

You can feel confident choosing the Sports and Physical Therapy Center – the entire team is highly qualified; they seek continuous training to sharpen their skills and bring you the latest treatment techniques. Most important, they get results. So, why wait to feel better? Contact your physician for a prescription, and call the Sports and Physical Therapy Center at 636-938-4065 to schedule an evaluation.

If you’d like to learn more about Sean Quinn, his team of physical therapists, or their full range of services, visit http://www.ptstl.com.

What You Need to Know About the Cost of Physical Therapy and Insurance

If you’re experiencing pain or limited mobility and are in need of treatment, you may be wondering, “How much will physical therapy cost?” The good news is that physical therapy treatment is covered by most insurance plans, because it is widely regarded as an effective way to treat a variety of conditions and to prevent future health problems. In addition, physical therapy often proves to be more cost-effective than other medical treatments, because it does not involve expensive medications or invasive techniques, such as surgery or injections.

Many patients are relieved to find that a co-pay or deductible is the only out-of-pocket cost they’ll incur for getting healthy, relieving pain, and improving mobility through physical therapy. When you don’t have to worry about the cost of physical therapy treatment, you can focus on getting better.

No matter where your body hurts, a physical therapist can help. Read on for helpful information about how physical therapy can heal your pain, and how your insurance may cover the costs.

Will Your Insurance Cover Physical Therapy?

If you’re new to physical therapy treatment, you may be unaware that most healthcare policies include insurance for physical therapy. For example, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association designates physical therapy as a covered “ancillary service.” These types of services support the diagnosis and treatment of a patient’s condition. Physical therapy is effective in healing the underlying cause of pain and preventing future injuries, and often helps reduce overall healthcare expenses for both individuals and insurance providers.

How Insurance Works

Becoming an informed consumer of healthcare services can be quite empowering. When you take control of your own healthcare, you have the opportunity to decide which type of treatment works best for you – including physical therapy. It is your right to choose physical therapist services, and it’s a smart idea to know how your health insurance for physical therapy works.

Some states, including Missouri, require a physician’s prescription prior to obtaining physical therapy treatment. However, you are entitled to see the physical therapist of your choice. Many patients choose to research their options and choose a physical therapist prior to contacting their physician for a prescription. Others may ask their doctor to recommend a physical therapist. Either way, when choosing a local physical therapy clinic, be sure that your physical therapist is licensed to practice in your state, since most health insurance plans cover physical therapy services only when provided by a licensed physical therapist.

There are often limits to the coverage provided by a health insurance policy. For example, your plan may allow for a limited number of physical therapy visits. You may also have a deductible to meet, a co-pay toward the cost of physical therapy treatment, or both. It’s important to know what your insurance covers, so take the time to familiarize yourself with your policy’s guidelines before scheduling treatment.

What Is The Difference Between a Co-Pay and a Deductible?

Co-Pay: Many insurance plans require a co-pay for covered healthcare services. The co-pay is generally a reasonable set amount – such as $10 or $20 – and is usually paid to the healthcare provider at the time of service. A co-pay is typically required for each claim submitted, such as a doctor visit, physical therapist session or consultation with a specialist.

Deductible: Some healthcare policies may have a deductible, which is a specified amount a patient is responsible for paying for healthcare services before insurance coverage begins. Once the deductible has been met, the insurance company will pay for treatments according to the terms of the policy. A co-pay may be required for subsequent visits after the deductible has been met.

Different policies may have varying deductibles for specific covered services. For instance, a policy may specify a $1,000 deductible prior to covering a hospital visit, but only a $250 deductible for prescription medications.

The Sports and Physical Therapy Center Accepts Most Insurance Plans

When you’re experiencing discomfort from sprains, strains, or injuries, you deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can find relief, and that your treatment will be covered by insurance. If you’re seeking the services of qualified physical therapists in St. Louis County, Missouri, you’ll find a skilled team ready to help you at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center.

Owner Sean Quinn and his team of licensed physical therapists know that when you’re in pain, you want fast relief. They take pride in focusing on each patient’s condition, goals, and objectives. Your physical therapist will give you a therapeutic diagnosis of the underlying cause of your discomfort, develop an individualized treatment plan to relieve your pain, and get you moving again.

Just as important, the Sports and Physical Therapy Center staff is experienced in working with many insurance providers, and accepts most insurance plans. As a courtesy, the staff verifies each patient’s insurance coverage before starting physical therapy treatment. During your initial visit, they will also review your benefits, and explain deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance. They will coordinate payment for physical therapy services with your insurance company and submit bills directly for reimbursement.

Whether you want to heal from an injury, increase your mobility, or simply improve your overall health, it’s your right to choose physical therapist treatment. Simply ask your physician for a prescription. You’ll find that when recommending a physical therapist in Eureka, Missouri, most physicians will quickly endorse the team at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center. You are welcome to speak to one of the skilled physical therapists about any questions you may have about your condition, physical therapy cost, or treatment.

Every day, a growing number of people decide to take control of their health through more active forms of treatment, such as physical therapy. You’ll find that your physical therapist is committed to being your partner in health, and dedicated to teaching you how to strengthen your body, alleviate discomfort, and prevent future injuries.

Take the first step to becoming a better-informed healthcare consumer by educating yourself about your insurance plan. Then contact your physician for a prescription, and call The Sports and Physical Therapy Center at 636-938-4065 to schedule an evaluation.

Please visit http://www.ptstl.com for more information and resources.

Concern Over Drastic Medicare Cuts

As you may know from the news, last week, after months of negotiating, the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction, known as the Super Committee, released a statement indicating its inability to come to a bipartisan agreement on a deficit reduction package. This package included numerous programs, one of which is Medicare.  As a result of this Committee’s inability to come to an agreement, effective January 1, 2012, we will see a 27% reduction in our payments from Medicare AND while the therapy cap has been raised to $1,880 for 2012, there is NO exception process in place.  So, as a Medicare patient uses up their $1,880 in January and February (which typically takes 12-14 visits), they have no further therapy benefits for the year.  Obviously, this will have a tremendous affect on Medicare beneficiaries as well as us.

I hope you can now see why it is so important that EVERYONE contact your representatives in Washington and express to them how this debt reducing strategy will have a significant impact in your healthcare options and our delivery of physical therapy to you.

We only have 30 days remaining for Congress to take action on the therapy cap exceptions process.  It is critical that Congress pass legislation before December 31, 2011 to extend the therapy cap exceptions process and to avoid the scheduled 27.4% cut in provider payments under the Medicare physician fee schedule.  We need everyone to contact their legislators today.

Our two Senators are Roy Blunt and Claire McCaskill.  If you do not know your Congressman:  Todd Akin represents most of St. Charles, west and central St. Louis county, Blaine Luetkemeyer represents most of Franklin County and Russ Carnahan for South Louis County and Jefferson County.

• Call your Members of Congress Today.  Ask for the staffer that handles healthcare policy and ask for co-sponsorship of The Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2011  (H.R. 1546/S. 829)
  • Senator Claire McCaskill – (202) 224-6154
  • Senator Roy Blunt – (202) 224-5721
  • Congressman Todd Akin – (202) 225-2561
  • Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer – (202) 225-2956
  • Congressman Russ Carnahan – (202) 225-2671
• Send an email to your Members of Congress TODAY.   For sample letters and easy access to contacting your Members of Congress by electronic means or download and print letters, utilize APTA’s Legislative Action Center.
• Request your patients to contact Congress on this issue through APTA’s Patient Action Center.  This site is designed to educate patients on the issue and to provide easy access to form emails and letters for them to contact Congress.

Thanks for your help.

Sean Quinn

Treating an Injury With Physical Therapy

Suffering an injury can be painful and traumatic. If it happens to you, why not explore the benefits of physical therapy? When your goal is fast relief from pain and a complete recovery from your injury, physical therapy can help. Under the guidance of a qualified physical therapist, you’ll be pain-free and back to your normal routine before you know it.

Physical therapy is effective in preventing future injuries. Your physical therapist will help you strengthen your muscles, stabilize joints, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion. He or she will also teach you how to move properly during sport activities and everyday tasks to avoid damaging joints or straining muscles.

If you’ve experienced an injury, you owe it to yourself to discover how physical therapy can relieve your pain and help your body heal itself.

What Injuries Can Be Treated With Physical Therapy?

You may have friends or family members who sought physical therapy treatment to recover from aches and pains, a sports injury, automobile accident, or a work-related incident. Physical therapy can effectively treat these and many other injuries, including:

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL) tears
• Rotator cuff tears
• Meniscal Tears
• Back strain
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Neck pain
• Tennis elbow
• Ankle sprains
• Hand or wrist fractures

Whether your injury is located in soft tissue or bone, physical therapy can speed your recovery. One of the benefits of physical therapy is that it uses strength and mobility training in combination with manual skills– instead of drugs or invasive procedures – to repair injuries and prevent future damage. To help your body heal itself, your physical therapist will develop an individualized plan based on your injury, physical condition, and level of pain. Rather than masking your symptoms with drugs, physical therapy addresses the underlying cause of pain to produce real, permanent relief.

A Physical Therapist’s Step-By-Step Approach to Injury Treatment

How does a licensed physical therapist treat injuries? First, he or she will completely evaluate your condition to determine the extent of your injury, as well as your muscle strength and range of motion. Once the source of your discomfort has been identified, the next priority is relieving your pain. Your physical therapist will use proven methods such as manual therapy, massage, soft-tissue therapy, joint mobilization, strength and conditioning exercises, and flexibility training to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Next, your physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that is based on your goals and designed to bring you back to complete health and well-being. You will be instructed in how to move and work with your injury, perform strengthening exercises, and retrain your body to move properly, thus avoiding further joint strain or injury. Education is an essential function of physical therapy treatment.

As you progress through your treatment plan, your physical therapist will continually evaluate your status and recovery. Your treatment plan may adjust as you become stronger and more flexible.

Avoiding Future Injuries With Physical Therapy

Physical therapists specialize not only in treating musculoskeletal problems, but also in helping patients prevent the occurrence of future injuries. They achieve this by developing a treatment plan that results in stronger muscles, stable joints, and a more flexible body. Improving your range of motion and balance can lead to more confidence and freedom of movement. With better stability and optimum balance, you’ll be well equipped to avoid the falls, twisted joints and muscle strain that can cause injuries.

How Long Will Recovery Take?

The total number of physical therapy sessions will vary for each individual, according to his or her injury and progress, as well as physician input. Remember, patients seeking to begin treatment with a physical therapy center in Missouri will need a physician’s prescription first.

It’s important to realize that expensive and invasive solutions, like surgery or injections, are not the only paths to relief – and they may not be the best option for you. No matter what type of injury you’ve experienced, you have a choice. Physical therapy treatment is a proven alternative that can help you recover quickly and prevent future injuries.

If you’ve suffered an injury, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for a physical therapy prescription. After all, you have the right to request physical therapy treatment from the provider of your choice.

Improve Your Health at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center

Are you seeking physical therapy services in St. Louis County? Whether you have suffered an injury, are seeking to improve your overall fitness, or would like to enhance your quality of life through physical therapy, you can trust the Sports and Physical Therapy Center in Eureka, Missouri. Owner Sean Quinn and his skilled team will provide you with the level of expertise you expect, with a patient-centered approach that can make your recovery more successful.

The physical therapists at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center will help you get the results you want, whether your goal is to recover from an injury, improve your health, participate in a new sports activity, or just lead a more active lifestyle. If your job entails sitting at a desk or performing repetitive motions, a physical therapist can help you learn how to prevent work-related pain, strain, and injuries.

The friendly and helpful staff at the Sports and Physical Therapy Center will be happy to answer your questions and help you determine if physical therapy would be a good fit for you. When you’re ready to schedule an evaluation, be sure to contact your physician for a physical therapy prescription first. For more information or to make an appointment, call the Sports and Physical Therapy Center at 636-938-4065.

Please visit http://www.ptstl.com for additional information and resources.