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Rehabilitation Center
Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during my first visit?

During your first visit you can expect the following:

• You will provide us with your prescription for physical therapy if you have orders from a non-Rockford Orthopedic physician.
• You will be seen for the initial evaluation by the therapist.
• The therapist will discuss the following:
  • Your medical history.
  • Your current problems/complaints.
  • Pain intensity, what aggravates and eases the problem.
  • How this is impacting your daily activities or your functional limitations.
  • Your goals in therapy.
  • Medications, tests, and procedures related to your health.
  • The therapist will then perform the objective evaluation which may or may not include palpation, ROM and strength testing, nerve/reflex testing.

The therapist will then formulate a list of problems you are having, and how to treat those problems. A plan is subsequently developed with the patient's input. This includes how many times you should see the therapist per week, how many weeks you will need therapy, home programs, patient education, short-term/long-term goals, and what is expected after discharge from therapy. This plan is created with input from you, your therapist, and your doctor.

How should I dress?

You should wear loose fitting clothing so you can expose the area that we will be evaluating and treating. For example, if you have a knee problem, it is best to wear shorts. For a shoulder problem, a tank top is a good choice and for low back problems, wear a loose fitting shirt and pants, again so we can perform a thorough examination. Please also wear comfortable footwear.

How long will each treatment last?

Treatment sessions typically last between 30-60 min. Please plan for a minimum of 45 minutes for the initial evaluation.

How many visits will I need?

This is highly variable. You may need one visit or you may need months of care. It depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your impairments, your past medical history, etc. You will be re-evaluated on a monthly basis and when you see your doctor, we will provide him/her with a progress report including our recommendations. Are the therapists all licensed? Our Physical therapists (PTs), physical therapist assistants (PTAs), and Occupational Therapists (OTs) are all licensed within the state of Illinois.

What will I have to do after my therapy is complete?

Some patients will need to continue with home exercises. Some may choose to continue with a gym exercise program. Others will complete their rehabilitation and return to normal daily activities. It is important that you communicate your goals to your therapist, so he/she can develop a custom program for you.

Will I have the same therapist each time I come in?

You will be evaluated by one of our licensed and highly trained occupational therapists or physical therapists. Our physical therapists are partnered with a Physical Therapy Assistant. After your physical therapy evaluation your subsequent therapy sessions may be provided by the evaluating PT or their Physical Therapy Assistant teammate. If you are being seen by a occupational/hand therapist you will continue to be seen by that individual throughout your course of treatment. We feel it is very important to develop a one-on-one relationship with you to maintain continuity of care and all efforts will be made to ensure that this occurs.

Can I go to any therapy clinic?

Absolutely. You have the right to choose any therapy clinic. Depending on your specific diagnosis, the physician may request that you do complete your therapy at Rockford Orthopedic Rehabilation due to the amount of specialization our therapists have in treating the more complex injuries. Your insurance plan may also dictate where provided therapy services are covered; our clinic may or may not be an approved provider for your insurance plan. Refer to your private insurance for further information as to the level of coverage provided.

What do I need to bring with me?

If you are already being seen at Rockford Orthopedic by one of our physicians you do not need to bring any specific papers or items with you to therapy. However, if you are being referred to therapy by a physician outside of Rockford Orthopedic you will need to bring the therapy order with you.

What is the difference between a PT and an OT/Hand Therapist?

You will find many different answers to this question depending on the treatment setting. At Rockford Orthopedic Rehabilitation, most lower extremity injuries (foot, knee, hip), back and neck injuries are seen by our highly-trained physical therapy staff. Upper extremity injuries (hand wrist, elbow) are seen by our occupational/hand therapy staff. If you have a shoulder injury, either a physical therapy or an occupational/hand therapy staff member may treat you.