Frequently Asked Questions


What is Physical Therapy?(PT) This is not a textbook definition; however physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation that involves the assessment and treatment of various physical ailments. There are many different areas that a physical therapist can be involved in such as: Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Neurology, Wound Care, Chest PT and Geriatric PT to name a few. The therapist will perform an initial evaluation and then develop a treatment plan that will meet each individual's specific needs.

Is Physical Therapy like Massage Therapy of Chiropractic Care? Well, this is a tough one. In reference to massage therapy, yes, except an PT can administer massage therapy, but massage therapists cannot administer PT. In some cases the use of various forms of massage is an integral part of the Physical Therapists treatment plan. Chiropractic care differs quite a bit in the sense that a Chiropractor relies heavily on performing joint manipulations. Chiropractors typically will see a patient for much longer than a physical therapist for continued joint manipulations or adjustments, whereas a physical therapist will rehab the injury or painful area and then instruct the patient in a home exercise Program for continued care. A Physical therapist with specialized training can effectively perform many of the physical adjustments that a Chiropractor utilizes.

Do I need a Dr.'s prescription? Yes, a script is needed for treatment, but a therapist can per form an initial evaluation without a script to let you know if your condition would benefit from FT.

What is involved in an initial examination? An initial examination involves the therapist examining the problem area and developing an effective treatment plan. Usually the initial examination takes between 30-45 minutes. During the initial consultation, the patient will be asked various questions regarding how the injury took place and what type of symptoms are present.

How do I know that physical therapy can help me? Physical therapy can help anyone who is suffering from musculoskeletal injuries, recovering from surgeries or other difficulties such as balance/walking problems, or neurological problems such as stroke and acquired brain injuries. The realm of physical therapy is huge and encompasses the whole body and its functioning. To learn how PT can specifically help your condition, submit the injury online form, or call 601 664-7191 for a FREE Consultation. If you have a question not mentioned here, please email your question
to Bernardine Mashburn.