FAQ
Click On A Question To View The Answer
What should I expect during physical therapy sessions?
Physical 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 Physical Therapy?
Providence Office (Rhode Island)
As providers with at least one year of experience, we can evaluate and treat patients without a referral for up to 90 days, provided we share the treatment plan with their physician and adhere to 2026 copay parity laws that keep our services at the same cost as a primary care visit.
Swansea Office (Massachusetts)
We have unrestricted legal authority to evaluate and treat patients without a referral or time limits, utilizing 2026 state regulations that have streamlined care by eliminating prior authorization requirements for our essential physical therapy services.
What do I need to wear or bring with me?
You should dress in comfortable, loose clothing that allows you to move easily and doesn’t restrict circulation. Depending on your condition, your physical therapist may also recommend special shoes or a brace. You should also bring any paperwork related to your medical history, including x-rays, ultrasounds, and doctor’s notes.
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 physical therapist can adjust the intensity of treatment accordingly.
How long will my physical therapy sessions last?
Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes depending on your condition and the types of techniques used. Your physical 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 physical 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 physical therapy session?
Your physical 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 physical therapy?
It depends on your insurance plan. Most plans cover some or all of the costs associated with physical therapy, but you should check with your provider to determine coverage and any associated fees.
How often will I need to come for treatment?
Each treatment program is different, however most patients are treated two to three times per week. The total duration of physical therapy will depend on the severity of your injury.
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 physical 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 physical therapist be able to answer any questions I have about my condition?
Yes! Your physical 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 physical 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 physical therapy?
Your physical therapist should be able to provide guidance on when it is appropriate to stop attending physical 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.
Who else will I see besides the physical therapist who does my evaluation?
No one. Your therapist is the only one who will be doing your treatments. In 95% of cases, patients see the same physical therapist for all of their sessions. This is a very unique practice model that allows great continuity of care, produces better results and very happy patients.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most insurance plans. Call us if you plan is not listed as your plan may still allow treatment with us.
- Blue Cross & Blue Shield MA, RI, Out of State PLans
- United HealthCare
- Unicare/GIC
- Tricare for Life
- Medicare
- Auto Insurance
- We can also discuss self-pay rates
What should I wear to my first visit?
It’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows the therapist access to the areas of your current complaints. A loose fitting shirt, tank top, or sports bra is recommended for any problem with your neck or upper extremity. The easier it is to access the affected area, the better we can care for you and get to the root of what may be causing your current condition.
How do I get started?
At Specht PT we’ve made it super easy for you to begin your treatment program. Simply call us at 508-675-3200 to make an appointment.
If you are going to use your health insurance plan, we can explain your physical therapy benefits and coverage. Additionally we will see you as soon as possible, usually within 48 hours of your call.
What happens at my first visit?
Your physical therapist will first talk with you, to learn about the problem that has brought you in for treatment. He or she will then perform a comprehensive evaluation of your musculoskeletal system, including posture, body mechanics, joint mobility, range of motion, soft tissue mobility, strength, flexibility and functional testing. Depending on the evaluation findings and your goals, your therapist will next explain the recommended treatment plan, what it will entail and why it is being recommended. If appropriate, you will receive treatment and a home program for pain relief. Finally, before leaving the clinic the appropriate follow-up appointments will be scheduled.
Who will perform my treatments?
Our clinic is unique in that 100% of your treatment will be performed by a licensed physical therapist (we do not employ physical therapy assistants or aides). During each treatment your therapist will work “one-on-one” with you, and every effort will be made to have you seen by the same therapist for each of your follow-up treatment sessions.
What treatments do you perform?
Treatments can include soft tissue massage, myofascial release, traction, deep tissue massage, joint mobilization, trigger point dry needling, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat, ice, stretching, strengthening, body mechanics education, balance training, posture education, gait training, etc. While we use a hands-on approach for various ‘manual’ therapies, we also use a wide array of exercise equipment to help in your rehabilitation including, elastic resistance bands, exercise balls, free weights, weight training machines, medicine balls, balance boards, stationary bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, etc.
Is there anything that I can do assist the recovery process?
We will prescribe a home treatment program, including advice on how to relieve pain, decrease inflammation/spasm, sleep more comfortably, etc. We will also design an exercise program so you can assist the recovery process in between physical therapy sessions.
Will you talk with my doctor?
We stay in close communication with your doctor through evaluation reports, progress reports and telephone calls. We’ll work with your doctor toward the shared goal of helping you recover as quickly as possible.
When can I come in?
Call us at (508) 675-3200 to book your first visit. We offer early morning and evening appointments so that we can accommodate most busy schedules.
Hours of Operation
Providence, RI
Monday: 7:00AM – 3PM
Tuesday: 8:30AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 7:00AM – 5:30PM
Thursday: 1:00PM – 5:30PM
Friday: 7:30AM – 2PM
Swansea, MA
Monday – Thursday: 7AM – 6PM
Friday: 7AM – 3:30PM
Please call after 7 am to speak with our office staff.
How much will each visit cost me?
Prescribed physical therapy is often covered, at least partially, by health insurance. Please call us to find out what your co-payment will be; or call your insurance company directly to verify your coverage. In general, most of our patients have a co-payment of $5 – $20 per office visit.
