Who’s Who at My PT Office?
Every physical therapy clinic has a team of medical practitioners and office staff working together to create the best patient experience. Physical therapy treatment is often long-term, requiring multiple visits. Patients will get to know their physical therapy team and office staff well by the time their treatment is complete.
Your PT a.k.a The DPT.
A DPT stands for Doctor of Physical Therapy, or more commonly referred to as a physical therapist. These are the primary doctors that patients will interact with at a physical therapy clinic. DPTs are the ones in charge of evaluating, diagnosing, and managing treatment for issues related to movement dysfunction or pain. ChosePT, a consumer information website provided by the American Association of Physical Therapists, states that since 2000, physical therapy students need a minimum of 3 years of post-graduate studies to practice.
Your PTA
Larger clinics with multiple doctors may have additional health practitioners, known as physical therapy assistants, whom provide care to patients in accordance with the physical therapy plan of care established during your initial evaluation. PTA’s are licensed health care providers with extensive education in therapeutic exercise and various manual therapy techniques to restore your normal function. Their role may vary from clinic to clinic, but they often work closely with patients throughout their recovery journey “to improve movement, strength, and coordination (ChosePT).”
Your office staff a.k.a The Glue!
Every clinic will have a team of people working the front desk or behind the scenes to ensure the clinic runs efficiently, as well as work on your behalf to get your PT visits covered as much as possible by your insurance. Physical therapy office staff do more than meets the eye but some of their duties include: scheduling patients, checking patients’ insurance benefits and eligibility, claim submission, claim resolution and resubmission if needed, and help you communicate your needs to your providers.
What about certifications and specializations?
Many physical therapists are certified to provide additional treatments or services, such as dry needling. Others specialize in specific therapies, diagnostic techniques, or areas of the body. Below are three examples of certifications and specializations that a physical therapist may have.
Dry-Needling Certified DPT
Dry needling is a skilled technique that involves the insertion of thin monofilament needles into muscular and connective tissues for the management of musculoskeletal injuries or pain. There are several theories that describe the mechanism of action for Dry Needling, with promotion of tissue remodeling at the injury site and ramp up of pain inhibiting pathways being the most commonly accepted by researchers and clinicians.
If you are experiencing any of the above, please contact us at PhysioLogic to get evaluated by our Certified Dry-Needling Physical Therapists, Dr. Phillip Edwards and Dr. John Lee Peña
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy DPT
A DPT who specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy treats conditions such as vaginismus, urinary or fetal incontinence, and pain during intercourse. Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on using physiological exercises to strengthen, stretch, and relax the muscles in the pelvis, according to verywellhealth. It is for both women and men.
If you are experiencing any of the above, please contact us at PhysioLogic to get evaluated by our Certified Pelvic Floor Specialist, Dr. Hillary Hummel-Kerbs.
Certified Cranio-Facial Practitioner DPT
If you are experiencing recurrent headaches, neck aches, or jaw pain; a Certified Cranio-Facial Practitioner (CCP) can help you to locate specific areas of impairment to strengthen and/or increase range of motion as needed. This can help to improve function and decrease pain. Most dysfunction of the head, neck, and jaw can be related to sustained postures. A cranio-facial certified DPT can assess posture and movement to prescribe exercises that may alleviate prolonged pressure on cervical and facial joints and muscles. Treatment helps manage symptoms such as headaches, TMJ, and dizziness/vertigo.
If you are experiencing any of the above, please contact us at PhysioLogic to get evaluated by our Certified Craio-Facial Practitioner, Dr. John Lee Peña
About Physiologic Physical Therapy
At Physiologic Physical Therapy, we offer evidence-based, specialized treatment for various physiologic conditions. If you are having recurrent pain, discomfort, or issues with specific body parts, talk to your doctor about seeing a physical therapist. We help guide our patients through their physical therapy journey. Learn more about the services we provide at Physiologic Physical Therapy clinic in Aledo, TX.
