FAQ
What should I expect during occupational therapy sessions?
Occupational therapy sessions typically involve an assessment of your condition, manual techniques to improve mobility and flexibility, individualized exercises and activities to help you reach your goals, education on how to prevent further injury or pain, and instruction on proper posture, body mechanics and other lifestyle changes.
Do I need a referral from my doctor before attending Occupational Therapy?
OTs are licensed to evaluate and treat patients without requiring a physician referral as a matter of state practice act unless the insurer specifically requires it for payment.
However, insurance plans often have their own payment/referral rules that dictate whether the patient must see a primary care provider (PCP) or get a referral before the insurer will reimburse OT services.
What do I need to wear or bring with me?
- Your photo ID and insurance card
- A referral or physician order if required by your insurance
- Any imaging (X-rays, MRI) related to your condition — on disc or digital link
- A list of any current medications
- Wear or bring loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arm or shoulder
Is there anything I can do before my appointment to prepare?
Yes! Make sure you arrive for your session well-rested so that you can give it your full attention and energy. It is also helpful if you keep track of how much pain medication (if any) you take prior to the appointment so that the occupational therapist can adjust the intensity of treatment accordingly.
How long will my occupational therapy sessions last?
Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes depending on your condition and the types of techniques used. Your occupational therapist will give you an estimate when you first arrive for your appointment.
Are there any exercises I can do at home between appointments to help improve my condition?
Yes! Your occupational therapist may provide specific exercise recommendations for you to try in between visits, which will help speed up your recovery and progress faster toward reaching your goals. It’s important to follow these carefully and always check with your PT before starting a new exercise program if you have any questions or concerns.
What if I have questions after my occupational therapy session?
Your occupational therapist should be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your treatment plan before and after each visit. You can also contact the clinic directly for further assistance. We want you to get the most out of every session!
Will insurance cover my occupational therapy?
We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and workers’ compensation. Our team will verify your benefits before your first visit and provide a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket costs.
How often will I need to attend occupational therapy sessions?
The frequency of visits will depend on your individual goals and condition, but typically it is recommended that patients attend 2-3 times per week for a minimum of 4-6 weeks in order to maximize results. Your therapist will provide more details during your initial appointment.
How long will it take for me to see results?
Every person’s situation is unique; therefore the amount of time needed to reach goals varies. With commitment and dedication from both you and your occupational therapist, you can expect to start seeing results within a few weeks. The more positive lifestyle changes you make, the faster your progress will be!
Will my occupational therapist be able to answer any questions I have about my condition?
Yes! Your occupational therapist should be available to discuss any concerns or questions you have regarding your condition or treatment plan. Don’t hesitate to bring up any issues that may arise during the course of therapy.
What if I feel too much pain during a session?
If at any time during your occupational therapy session you experience increased pain, it’s important to let your therapist know so they can adjust the intensity or technique as necessary. Your therapist will work with you to make sure that treatment is comfortable and effective for you
How will I know when I no longer need occupational therapy?
Your occupational therapist should be able to provide guidance on when it is appropriate to stop attending occupational therapy sessions based on your progress, goals, and overall health status. It’s important to listen to your therapist and continue with treatment until they feel you are ready to move on.