Plains Physical Therapy FAQs

• Insurance card(s) and photo ID
• Physician referral or prescription (if required by your insurance)
• List of current medications
• Any relevant imaging or test results (X-rays, MRI, etc.)
• Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement (shorts, t-shirt, or workout clothes)

Please arrive 15–20 minutes early to complete any paperwork and allow us to review your insurance benefits. If you’ve filled out forms in advance, 5 minutes early is fine.

• Your physical therapist will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals.
• We’ll perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include strength, mobility, balance, posture, and movement testing.
• Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan.
• If time allows, you may also receive your first treatment session and a home exercise program to get started.

The first visit usually lasts 45–60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30–45 minutes, depending on your treatment plan.

• In Montana (and most states), you can see a physical therapist without a referral (“direct access”).
• However, some insurance companies require a referral for coverage. We’ll help verify your benefits before starting care.

Most insurance plans cover physical therapy, but coverage varies. We’ll confirm:

• Copays, coinsurance, or deductible amounts
• Visit limits per year
• Authorization requirements
• We also offer self-pay options if you don’t have insurance or prefer to pay directly

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that allow access to the area we’ll be treating.
• For lower body issues: bring shorts.
• For upper body/neck issues: wear a tank top or loose shirt.
• Sneakers or supportive shoes are recommended.
• Special note: If vertigo or dizziness is your main complaint, we recommend you bring a driver after your appointment.

This depends on your condition, goals, and progress. Some patients feel better after just a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer plan of care. Your therapist will discuss expectations at your first visit.

Please give us at least 24 hours’ notice if you can’t make your appointment. This allows us to offer the slot to another patient in need.

Physical therapy focuses on treating the root cause of pain or limitation—not just symptoms. We use hands-on treatment, exercise, education, and lifestyle strategies to help you move better, heal faster, and prevent future injury.