No, you don’t. New York allows direct access to physical therapy, which means you can start treatment without a prescription. If you have three or fewer years of experience with a therapist, you can attend up to 10 visits or 30 days of treatment before a referral becomes necessary. Some insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, workers’ compensation, and no-fault cases, may still require a prescription. It’s worth checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage, but direct access gives you the freedom to address pain and mobility issues without waiting for a doctor’s appointment first.
Your first visit will take longer than follow-up appointments because it includes a comprehensive evaluation. Expect your initial session to last between 30 and 60 minutes. During this time, your physical therapist will discuss your medical history, assess your current condition, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Follow-up sessions typically run 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your specific needs and the treatments being performed. This gives your therapist enough time to work through exercises, manual techniques, and any other interventions without rushing through your care.
Physical therapy shouldn’t hurt, but it can be challenging at times. You might feel sore after certain treatments like deep tissue work or stretching tight muscles, especially early in your recovery. Some procedures, like regaining range of motion after surgery, can be uncomfortable as your body adjusts. Your therapist will work within your tolerance and adjust techniques based on your feedback. The goal is always to reduce pain over time, not create more of it. If something feels wrong or too painful, speak up. Your therapist can modify the approach to keep you progressing safely and comfortably.
It depends on your condition, how your body responds to treatment, and how consistent you are with your home exercises. Some patients see significant improvement in as few as two to eight visits, while others with more complex issues may need several weeks or months of care. Your therapist will give you an estimated timeline during your initial evaluation, but it’s not set in stone. Progress varies from person to person. Most people start noticing improvements within four to six weeks of consistent therapy, with maximum benefits typically showing up after eight to twelve weeks. Your therapist will track your progress and adjust the plan as needed.
Most insurance plans cover at least a portion of physical therapy costs, but your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your specific plan. You may have copays, deductibles, or coinsurance that you’re responsible for paying. Some plans limit the number of visits they’ll cover per year. It’s smart to contact your insurance provider before starting treatment to understand what’s covered and what you’ll owe. If your insurance doesn’t cover therapy or you’re out of network, we offer cash-based payment options or payment plans to help make care more affordable.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely. Think gym clothes: athletic shorts, sweatpants, t-shirts, and tank tops all work well. You’ll likely be doing exercises and stretches, so tight jeans or office attire won’t cut it. Bring supportive athletic shoes or sneakers. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or high heels. If your therapist needs to assess or treat a specific area like your knee or shoulder, make sure that area is easy to access. Dressing like you’re headed to the gym sets you up for a productive session where you can focus on movement without restrictions.
