FAQs

Physical therapists are the most qualified providers to manage your movement system – a collection of systems that contribute to the act of moving from the sub-cellular to the total body level.  PTs use a diagnostic process to determine the biologic, biomechanical, and psycho-social contributions to your condition.  With you at the center of care, and through a dynamic and iterative process, we discover what is meaningful, determine blocking influences and help patients achieve their goals.  We empower patients to appreciate that movement and exercise is safe, fun, and important for lasting health. 

We are experts in optimizing movement after injury, before and after surgery, and to prevent activity related injuries. Our goal is to help you reduce medications, possibly avoid medical or surgical procedures and achieve functional movement that is crucial to your quality of life.

Washington State is a direct access state, which means you can see a physical therapist without seeing your physician first. However, many insurances may still require a referral from your physician for reimbursement.  Call our office and we’d be happy to assist in finding out your benefits and eligibility.

You will need to bring a photo id and your insurance card, along with all your completed initial paperwork.  As well, plan to bring comfortable clothing as noted below:

• For low back pain or lower extremity problems, please bring shorts and a t-shirt.
• For females with back, neck, and/or upper extremity problems, please bring shorts and a halter-top, bathing suit top, or one-piece backless bathing suit. Note that a sport back jog bra obscures viewing of the shoulder blades and is not recommended.

Typically our appointments are 60-minutes, scheduled once a week.  Occasionally we find you may need more or less on an ongoing basis.  You and your Physical Therapist will determine your Plan of Care at your initial evaluation.

We give you direct, one-on-one contact. Your entire visit will be spent with your physical therapist. This allows us to create a close connection with you and helps us to become productive very quickly. We want to be your practitioner of choice for your musculoskeletal needs.

Patients are seen, at Movement Systems Physical Therapy, by appointment only.  Scheduling is based on a first come, first served basis.  It is advisable for you to schedule your appointments in four to six week intervals.

In the event you need to cancel an appointment, we require at least 24 business hours notice (Monday appointments MUST be canceled no later than 3pm of the prior Friday.). Your appointment time is very important to us.  If we do not get at least 24 business hours notice of your cancellation, or you do not arrive for your scheduled appointment (no show) you will be assessed a $100 fee.