- Q: What are your hours?
- A: Our first appointment is 7 a.m. Monday through Friday. Our last appointment is 8 p.m. on Monday, and 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
- Q: Do I need a referral from a doctor or may I come directly to you?
- A: Needing a physical referral or prescription is determined by your insurance policy. Most insurance policies require a physician referral, however, Microsoft and Medicare enrollees have direct access, meaning they may make appointments without a physician referral.
- Q: How do I know if I need physical therapy, a massage or a chiropractor?
- A: Our initial assessment will determine if physical therapy is the correct treatment for your problem. We work closely with many chiropractors and massage therapists and are happy to discuss how each professional may contribute to your care.
- Q: What can I expect at my first visit?
- A: We will take a thorough history of your problem and will choose tests and measurements that will tell a clear story of your problem and outline effective treatment options. Together we will review the assessment findings and create a personalized treatment plan that makes sense. Please wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes to the first visit.
- Q: What is the treatment process?
- A: In addition to manual therapy, exercises and electrical modalities, therapy includes ongoing assessment of your response to treatment, and modifying the therapy plan to give you the very best outcome. The Symmetry Physical Therapy staff will teach you about your problem, and help you understand how to manage your therapy for your best benefit. To link your work in the clinic with your home life, treatment will include activities, exercises and stretches for you to work on at home.
- Q: Do you accept insurance?
- A: We accept more than 150 health insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid/DSHS, Premera Blue Cross, Regence Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, First Choice and Uniform. Call us to find out if we accept your insurer. We will provide you with a written summary of your insurance coverage as explained to us by your insurance company.
- Q: When do I pay my co-pay?
- A: We ask that patients pay their portion of the cost on the day of their appointment. We accept cash, check, debit or credit card.
- Q: How do you bill for services?
- A: We call your insurance plan to confirm your physical therapy benefits before your second visit. If you are not covered by insurance, we work with you to determine how to get the most effective care within your budget.
- Q: Do you work with my auto insurance company? Do you work with attorneys?
- A: Yes, we are happy to work closely with auto insurance companies and attorneys. We provide excellent documentation to assist in legal cases.
What causes neck pain?
Neck pain is often a symptom of problems in other areas of the body, such as the back, the hip or even the feet. To decrease neck pain and stiffness, therapy may include gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. We also use warm and cold application as well as electrical stimulation, which are very effective at reducing acute neck pain and muscle spasms.
What do you do for shoulder pain?
Like the neck, many things can cause shoulder discomfort. We assess your pain and treat it as well as its cause. If tendons surrounding the shoulder are overworked, they require rest, to reduce pain and swelling, and a careful combination of stretching and strengthening of the surrounding areas. We provide you with ergonomic training for your home and workplace to prevent recurring injury.
How do you treat elbow stiffness?
The elbow has three separate joints, which all can contribute to pain and stiffness. We create a personal program for our patients to treat elbow conditions that includes supportive exercises, rest and hands-on therapy.
Why are knees so easily injured?
The knee is made up of four separate joints. This complex system actually carries a load of up to eight times a person's body weight. Knees are able to handle this strain because of carefully coordinated muscle activity. Retraining the muscles around the knee and strengthening the hips and ankles are key to rehabilitation and preventing further injury.
How do you treat wrist and hand injuries?
The wrist and hand are made up of a complicated system of bones, ligaments, muscles and tendons. Many things cause wrist and hand conditions, including a fall, overuse, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or a nerve impingement. We treat the entire upper body by addressing the neck, shoulders, arms and hands. Some treatments include using supportive bracing, exercises, warm and cold application and electrical stimulation.
