Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions2018-05-10T12:48:24-04:00
Pilates No Refund Policy2023-12-19T11:32:39-05:00

No refunds for expired or unused services in Wellness Living:

  • Pilates Sessions
  • Massage Sessions
  • Cryotherapy Sessions
  • Strength & Conditioning Sessions
Do I need a referral from my gynecologist?2023-12-19T11:05:28-05:00

We recommend a referral from a gynecologist, however it is not necessary nor required for a physical therapy evaluation. We are always happy to refer you to one of several physicians we work with and who may specialize in the area in which you seek help.

Where can I find more information about Trigger Point Dry Needling?2023-12-20T06:15:51-05:00

Visit http://www.painpoints.com/patients/resources_articles.html to get more information about the procedure and the people that are licensed to perform it.

Once I am feeling better, how often to do I need to come back to maintain my progress?2023-12-20T06:29:09-05:00

The musculoskeletal system is under constant pressure from gravity, stress, work, etc. A regular exercise program combined with good posture can prevent many problems. If the pain comes back, “tune-ups” are recommended to treat and prevent serious injuries.

Where does trigger point dry needling fit into the entire rehabilitation program?2023-12-20T06:33:42-05:00

Generally speaking, trigger point dry needling is the modality of choice when it comes to treating patients in the clinic. More frequently, trigger point dry needling is needed in the beginning in order to break the pain cycle. Once that is achieved, other treatment options are introduced.

Why is my doctor not familiar with trigger point dry needling?2023-12-20T06:28:12-05:00

In the US, trigger point dry needling is a relatively new method for treating myofascial pain and not everyone is already aware of this effective modality. Feel free to inform your doctor about this treatment option. It is upon all of us to educate others about new and innovative ways to treat pain 

How long does it take for the procedure to work?2023-12-20T06:31:36-05:00

Typically, it takes several visits for a positive reaction to take place. We are trying to cause mechanical and biochemical changes without any pharmacological means. Therefore, we are looking for a cumulative response to achieve a certain threshold after which the pain cycle is disturbed.

What should I do after having the procedure done?2023-12-20T06:35:10-05:00

Our recommendations vary depending on the amount of soreness you have and on the individual response to the treatment. Recommendations may include applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretches and modifications of activities.

What side effects can I expect after the treatment?2023-12-20T06:33:14-05:00

Most patients report being sore after the procedure. The soreness is described as muscle soreness over the area treated and into the areas of referred symptoms. Typically, the soreness lasts between a few hours and two days.

Are the needles sterile?2023-12-19T10:54:49-05:00

Yes, One on One Physical Therapy only uses sterile needles.

Is the Trigger Point Dry Needling procedure painful?2023-12-20T06:34:06-05:00

Most patients do not feel the insertion of the needle. The local twitch response elicits a very brief (less than a second) painful response. Some patients describe this as a little electric shock; others feel it more like a cramping sensation. Again, the therapeutic response occurs with the elicitation of local twitch responses and that is a good and desirable reaction.

What type of problems can be treated with trigger point dry needling?2023-12-20T06:34:18-05:00

Trigger point dry needling can be used for a variety of musculoskeletal problems. Muscles are thought to be a primary contributing factor to the symptoms. Such conditions include, but are not limited to neck, back, and shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headache to include migraines and tension-type headaches, jaw pain, buttock pain and leg pain (sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms). The treatment of muscles has the greatest effect on reducing the pain mechanisms in the nervous system.

Is trigger point dry needling similar to acupuncture?2023-12-20T06:31:12-05:00

There are many similarities and differences between trigger point dry needling and acupuncture. Licensed physical therapists in a growing number of states can use trigger point dry needling under the scope of their practice. Physical therapists at One on One Physical Therapy are not licensed acupuncturists and do not practice acupuncture. (Although we do have licensed acupuncturists on staff.) In contrast to most schools of acupuncture, trigger point dry needling is strictly based on Western medicine principles and research.

How does trigger point dry needling work?2023-12-19T11:37:34-05:00

The exact mechanisms of trigger point dry needling are unknown. There are mechanical and biochemical effects. Based on the pioneering studies by Dr. Jay Shah and colleagues at the National Institute of Health, we know that inserting a needle into trigger points can cause favorable biochemical changes, which assist in reducing pain. It is essential to elicit the so-called local twitch responses, which are spinal cord reflexes. Getting local twitch responses with trigger point dry needling is the first step in breaking the pain cycle.

What is trigger point dry needling?2023-12-19T11:39:31-05:00

Trigger point dry needling is an invasive procedure in which a solid filament needle is inserted into the skin and muscle directly at a Myofascial trigger point. Physical therapists at One on One Physical Therapy utilize trigger point dry needling in the treatment of Myofascial pain. A Myofascial trigger point consists of multiple contraction knots, which are related to the production and maintenance of the pain cycle.

Are all Pelvic Health Physical Therapists the same?2023-12-20T06:32:39-05:00

Pelvic and abdominal health is a rapidly growing subspecialty of physical therapy. Many Physical Therapists may treat the pelvis but do not have specific training to perform an internal examination. Some Physical Therapists practice a pelvic-centric approach which does not examine the influence of the whole body on the pelvic floor. Our team feels it is necessary to look at the pelvis in the context of the whole person and we approach our patients in this manner. In addition our staff has advanced training beyond only 1 or 2 pelvic courses, are certified through various organizations and are employed as teaching faculty for well-known professional development programs. You can be certain that you will be receiving above entry-level care at One on One Physical Therapy.

My current physical therapist has referred me for an assessment of the pelvic floor. Do I have to come in?2023-12-20T06:17:28-05:00

You never have to do anything you don’t want to. However, your physical therapist has referred you to see if the pelvic floor is a factor in your pain and functional limitations. Our pelvic health physical therapists are trained to evaluate the whole body and determine what, if any, role the pelvic floor muscles may play. Not following through may prolong your physical therapy and increase your frustration with slow/ lack of progress.

I have a history of sexual trauma, can you work with me?2023-12-20T06:29:41-05:00

Sexual trauma can cause psychological as well as physical distress. If you feel uncomfortable attending physical therapy, we recommend that you speak with your mental health provider. If you are not currently seeing a counselor, we strongly suggest that you begin to do so in conjunction with physical therapy therapy for past sexual trauma.

Do you treat men’s pelvic floor health?2023-12-19T11:07:02-05:00

We treat men as well. The pelvic floor muscles do not differ between men and women even though the anatomy is slightly different. Some conditions common in men include pelvic pain, urinary urgency/frequency, constipation, tailbone pain, rectal pain, pudenda! neuralgia. Men also benefit from pelvic floor muscle retraining post testicular cancer or prostatectomy.

Can I come in during my menstrual cycle?2023-12-19T10:57:39-05:00

YES! There are always things to work on in physical therapy that do not involve intra-vaginal work. This is especially helpful if your main complaint is menstrual cramps, or your symptoms increase during your period. There are no contraindications to intra-vaginal treatment however, it depends on your level of comfort.

What can I expect from pelvic health physical therapy?2023-12-20T06:14:57-05:00

You can expect a combination of interventions, ranging from manual therapy to muscle re-education, behavioral training, strengthening and functional training. We attempt to match the treatment plans to meet your individual needs, so not everyone does the same exercises or comes at the same frequency. Many treatments involve the spine, extremities, abdomen and pelvis. We are trained in specialized skills including trigger point dry needling, Pilates-based exercise and Redcord Neurac.

There is an internal examination? Is this a part of physical therapy?2023-12-20T06:30:45-05:00

Yes! Physical Therapists who specialize in pelvic health are trained to examine the pelvis from the inside out. This is important because the pelvic floor muscles and deep hip rotators can only be palpated internally and often pelvic and hip pain is associated with myofascial dysfunction in these muscles. We can also properly assess muscle activation, strength and endurance as well as muscle relaxation through internal palpation.

What is involved in an initial examination?2023-12-19T11:18:16-05:00

Our pelvic floor therapists take a whole-body approach to treating the pelvis. This includes a full examination, including an intra-vaginal and/or intra-rectal examination of musculoskeletal structures.

How soon after birth can I come in?2023-12-19T11:29:27-05:00

We recommend waiting 4-6 weeks after childbirth before scheduling a post-partum evaluation. There are always situations that require referral sooner or later. We require clearance from your Ob/Gyn before starting or resuming an exercise program.

What conditions do Pelvic Health Physical Therapists treat?2023-12-20T06:16:21-05:00

Bladder Dysfunction – Incontinence, Urinary Urgency and Frequency, Painful Bladder Syndrome

Bowel Dysfunction – Fecal Incontinence, Constipation, Urgency of Bowel

Gastrointestinal Dysfunction – Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Pediatric Pelvic Health – Bedwetting, Pediatric Bladder/Bowel Incontinence

Functional Abdominal Pain

Pelvic Pain – Vulvodynia, Vestibulodynia, Vaginismus

Painful Intercourse

Dysmenorrhea, including menstrual cramps

Male Pelvic Health

Pelvic and Orthopedic Dysfunction Associated with Pregnancy

Post-Partum pain, urinary/bowel dysfunction, orthopedic dysfunction

What does it mean to go out-of-network?2023-12-19T11:26:23-05:00

This simply means you are going to see a medical provider outside of your insurance network.

We have chosen to accept low reimbursement rates for physical therapy. Low reimbursement rates create high volumes and reduce quality care. In traditional “in-network” models patients are treated in a group setting and one on one time with a licensed physical therapist is limited.

The out of network, one on one model, allows for:

  • productive treatment sessions
  • decreased number of visits needed
  • lower the total cost to reach your goals

Please call our office for more information. We are available to answer your questions or concerns. (770) 500-3848

Do you accept insurance?2023-12-19T11:42:57-05:00

We are an out of network provider, but will file as a courtesy with your provider if you have out of network, OON, benefits. We offer a discounted cash rate for those without OON benefits.

Please call our office for more information. We are available to answer your questions or concerns. (770) 500-3848

How many visits do I need?2023-12-19T11:24:18-05:00

It all depends on your specific condition and circumstances. Some patients are better in one visit, while others require months of therapy depending on the severity of their condition. We reassess you every session to make sure you are appropriately responding to the intervention and progressing towards your goals.

Please call our office for more information. We are available to answer your questions or concerns. (770) 500-3848

How do I get started?2023-12-19T11:14:23-05:00

Call us at 770-500-3848 and one of our administrative staff will help get you scheduled with the therapist that best suites your needs.

What should I wear to my physical therapy sessions?2023-12-20T06:34:56-05:00

So that we can perform a complete examination, we recommend for you to bring active fitness wear, like a tank top and shorts.

Why is it so important to spend quality one-on-one time with a Physical Therapist?2023-12-20T06:30:20-05:00

Since every person is unique, we believe that it takes our undivided time and attention to fully comprehend and treat the complexities of your specific physical limitation or condition. At One on One Physical Therapy, we guarantee 55 minutes of individualized, one-on-one care from a skilled physical therapist who centers everything around you to address your unique needs, motivations and goals. This approach can often produce fast results in fewer visits.

Do I need a prescription or referral for Physical Therapy?2023-12-20T06:32:08-05:00

In the state of Georgia, you can begin physical therapy without a prescription, if you aren’t under Medicare. Only Medicare patients need a prescription prior to beginning physical therapy. “Direct Access” allows you to have immediate access to a physical therapist. This can often expedite your treatment and speed up your recovery, ultimately saving you time and money. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), “Physical therapists are well-qualified, both through formal education and clinical training, to evaluate a patient’s condition, assess his or her physical therapy needs and, if appropriate, safely and effectively treat the patient.” We may need to consult with a physician at some point during your treatment. If you don’t have a physician that you are currently working with we can assist in finding one that suites your needs.

How do I know if I need Physical Therapy?2023-12-19T11:20:38-05:00

If you are suffering from pain and/or having difficulty performing a physical activity, you should consult a physical therapist. We can help you restore optimal physical function by promoting muscle stability, flexibility, pain-free mobility, and better movement patterns. In many cases we can accomplish this without expensive surgery, while often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. We can also teach you how to prevent or manage your condition so that you can achieve health benefits for years to come.

If you are not sure you may schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our physical therapists, in person or via email.

Call (770)-500-3848 to schedule!

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