What to Expect from Physical Therapy

New experiences can be challenging and scary, which is why we at Galloway Therapy do our best to help our patients prepare for physical therapy and get the most from their treatment while at our offices.

When we speak with patients prior to treatment, one of the questions we get most often is “What should I expect from physical therapy?” The most important answer is that you can expect a customized treatment plan that’s built just for you based on your health and situation. However, there are a few things everyone will experience when coming to Galloway Therapy.

Friendly Environment

Our first order of business when you enter our doors is to feel welcome in our facility and around our staff. While you’re here, you’re our guest.

We will run a few diagnostic checks to test your balance, strength, and range of motion and will use this information and any notes from your physician to build a plan that’s right for you.

The Right Therapy Tools

Depending on your situation, we may recommend a myriad of tools to help you recover from injury or improve your strength and balance. These tools include an heated indoor aquatic therapy pool complete with a patient lift, an AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, a Solo-Step Ceiling Rail, and a Biodex Balance System SD.

Our therapists are trained in manual, orthopedic, and gait training therapy so we can provide any necessary support to your rehabilitation efforts. We also carry braces and TENS units for those patients who need them.

What to Wear for Physical Therapy

The best clothing to wear to physical therapy is something appropriate for exercise. Choose clothing that allows our therapist to quickly access any trouble areas, such as shorts if you experience knee pain.

For those who will be using our aquatic therapy pool, we ask that you bring a bathing suit and a towel, along with any other items you may want or need, such as a t-shirt to wear over a swimsuit or water shoes for walking in the pool.

Will Physical Therapy Hurt?

Our focus at Galloway Therapy is to provide physical therapy services that will help you improve your health and get back to normal activity. Those who have recently gone through surgery may experience a little discomfort during treatment, though it is not our intent to purposefully cause pain. If you do experience any pain or discomfort during treatment, let our therapists know immediately and they’ll work with you to determine the best course of action for your health.

How Many Visits to Expect

Improving strength, balance, and range of motion takes time. Depending on your condition or situation, you may need to visit with our therapists for a couple weeks or months, though most of our patients are able to reach their goals in about 9 or 10 visits.

Part of our efforts to help you will be a home-based exercise plan, which if followed will greatly improve your experience while at our clinic, and can help you reach your goals faster than just relying on in-office visits. Additionally, we’ll recommend you continue with many home exercises after completing treatment at our office so you can maintain your health and mobility.

Have Additional Questions?

If you have any questions about Galloway Therapy or physical therapy in general, please feel free to contact us at 501-319-7659 for more information.

Additionally, our website offers additional information about specific services and conditions we treat here at Galloway Therapy.