Physical Therapy

Regain strength, motion

Physical therapists help you restore strength and regain flexibility. They target areas in your body that are stressed or injured, helping you move easily again. At Vancouver Clinic, our physical therapy providers partner with you to create treatment plans based on the latest research and your personal goals. Whether you are recovering from a motor vehicle accident, healing after an injury, or addressing a chronic ailment, we’re here to help. Some of the conditions our therapists address include:

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Headaches
• Neck pain
• Overuse or on-the-job injuries
• Sports injuries
• Strains and sprains.

Vancouver Clinic’s Physical Therapy Department offers a variety of therapy options:

• Astym® treatment for soft tissue recovery
• Balance and vestibular rehabilitation
• Customized exercise programs that promote recovery
• Detailed physical evaluations
• Hands-on manual techniques and exercise programs that restore normal, pain-free motion
• Hand therapy
• Massage therapy
• Pool therapy
• Treatment for women’s health issues such as pelvic pain and incontinence

Do I need a referral to start physical therapy?
Most insurance carriers require a referral before covering physical therapy services. However, some insurance carriers allow patients to self-refer and to attend an initial physical therapy evaluation without prior authorization. Please check with your insurance company to understand your specific benefits.

Our Vancouver Clinic providers work together closely to care for you. Once your Vancouver Clinic provider refers you to physical therapy, our referral team will call you to schedule your first appointment. For patients outside Vancouver Clinic, it’s common for your provider to fax your referral to the clinic. Patients may also fax the referral to 360-604-1725 or drop it off at the front desk of any clinic department and ask that it be forwarded to our referral and authorization team. Insurance authorization usually takes one to three days, but may take up to two weeks if physical therapy is necessary due to a work-related injury.

How is treatment coordinated with my doctor?
We connect with your physician after the initial evaluation to share our examination findings and treatment plan. We also share any specific needs or concerns with your doctor throughout the treatment program.

What should I wear to my physical therapy appointment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing—much of the treatment is based on movement.

What can I expect during my visits?
When you first visit one of our physical therapists, expect a detailed evaluation and discussion about your specific goals. We’ll also review your medical history and examine areas of your body that you wish to work on. As you progress through healing and recovery, we’ll be ready with new suggestions and treatments designed to keep you moving with strength, balance, and confidence.

What happens when I am done with physical therapy?
In most cases, you will have detailed instructions on exercises to continue after completing physical therapy—this will support the gains you’ve made. In addition, our therapists remain available via phone or MyChart to answer any questions going forward.