How many visits will I need?

At your first appointment, you will receive a comprehensive evaluation, treatment and education in your diagnosis. This will include the expected number of total treatment sessions according to your diagnosis, duration and intensity of your symptoms, medical and musculoskeletal contributors, and your consistency with attendance and home program.  You will have ample time with your therapist to address any questions or concerns that you may have with your symptoms.

How does physical therapy help pelvic pain?

There are many reasons for developing pelvic pain issues through a lifespan. Muscles, connective tissue (fascia), and nerves in the abdomen, pelvis, and low back region may all contribute to pelvic pain. Pelvic Floor physical therapists are specifically trained to evaluate and treat muscle spasm and trigger points/tender points that can result from muscle imbalance, scar tissue tension, prolonged nerve compression or stretch injuries, and trauma. You will also learn how to be an active participant in your recovery and learn how your pelvic floor is just one portion of what makes up your core.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Arizona is a “direct access” state for physical therapy services.  You do not need a referral from a physician for physical therapy services.

What do I ask my insurance company to get reimbursement for your services?

Please download the Insurance Benefit Worksheet for directions and questions to ask your insurance provider about reimbursement for physical therapy services. 

Will my insurance company pay for physical therapy services?

Most insurance companies cover physical therapy services. Some require a doctor’s referral but most do not. Check with your insurance company to see if they cover physical therapy as an “out-of-network” rate.

Do I need to have my pelvic muscles examined?

If your symptoms involve pain or weakness of the pelvic floor muscles, you may need a pelvic muscle examination for the most comprehensive assessment of your problem. However, if pelvic exams are painful for you, we may modify your examination or defer parts of the exam as appropriate. You always have the option to defer or decline any part of your examination and treatment.

This reason we do a pelvic examination is because it provides an important piece of information regarding your individualized physical therapy treatment plan. Physical therapists’ pelvic examinations are different that physician examinations in that we are providing education about your muscle function.  

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

Yes. You are welcome to bring a spouse, partner or friend with you to any or all visits. It can be educational for people close to you to understand more about your condition and treatment program. We are also able to provide clinical education for patients and their partners on pain management techniques.

What do I need to bring to my 1st appointment?

  • Completed Patient Forms
  • The patient forms take time to fill out and we suggest having them done at home before you come for your first visit.

  • If you are unable to bring your forms with you, please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment to fill them out.

  • You may bring a separate list of current medications, past surgeries, and any specific tests/ results with you if you prefer.
  • Referral from your physician; if required by your insurance company and you plan to submit for reimbursement.

If you are not sure whether you need a referral for insurance purposes, check with your insurance provider.

Do I need to arrive early?

You should arrive 15 minutes early for your first visit. If you did not complete your paperwork you should allow an additional 15 minutes to fully complete this prior to your appointment. We suggest that you arrive a few minutes early to your follow up appointments to allow time to check in, use the restroom, and change clothing as needed prior to seeing your therapist.

What should I wear?

Please wear or bring comfortable clothing that allows ease of movement for your first and follow up visits. We have gowns if needed.

How many visits will I need?

Patients are usually seen once a week. The number of total treatment sessions may vary according to your diagnosis, duration and intensity of your symptoms, medical and musculoskeletal contributors, and your consistency with attendance and home program. At your first appointment, your therapist will go over your assessment and expected course of therapy and during your subsequent visits we will continue to assess your progress throughout the course of treatment.