Frequently Asked Questions


When should I arrive for my physical therapy appointment and how long will it take?

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 preregistration form ahead of time, you can download it here. Your appointment will most likely take about an hour, depending on your needs and diagnosis.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

You will need to bring your insurance card, and a copy of your prescription for physical therapy.

What will my first visit be like?

You will be asked to change into comfortable clothing (you may want to bring shorts, a loose fitting T-shirt and gym shoes) to facilitate your evaluation. Your physical therapist will talk to you about your history and perform a physical examination. After your evaluation, the therapist will create a treatment program specific to your rehabilitation process. If necessary, you may begin treatment on the same day as your evaluation.

What will treatment be like?

Depending on your condition, injury, or type or surgery, the therapist might perform joint mobilization or range of motion exercises with you. You may receive moist, deep heat, or electrical massage treatments. Or you may perform a stretches or exercises using a variety of weight machines under close supervision of the physical therapist.

How many appointments will I need?

The number of appointments you will need may depend on your condition, injury, or type of surgery, and your body's response to the treatment. The average non-surgical patient requires about 9 appointments and the average surgical patient requires about 12-15 appointments.

Can I schedule appointments two days in a row?

Two days in a row is acceptable, however it is important to allow the body the rest it needs between treatments so 3 or more visits in a row is not recommended. Your physical therapist will advise you on the frequency of appointments best for you.

When should I return to my doctor?

Your physical therapist can determine when you should return to your doctor based on your progress with the treatment.

How much does physical therapy cost?

Physical therapy charges vary based on the treatments prescribed. You can contact us for a quote of charges based upon your diagnosis and your physician's prescription.


Kapper Physical Therapy. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2012