First Choice Physical Therapy - Wasilla Alaska

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Physical Therapy?
Physical Therapy is treatment related to your body. This includes but is not limited to back pain, neck pain, total joint replacements, vestibular and balance, muscoskeletal disorders, surgeries, fibromyalgia, weight loss, work comp injuries and chronic pain.
How long will it take to get better?
This question is asked by almost every patient; however, the answer varies. Your recovery time depends on you, your diagnosis and compliance with the physical therapy program designed for you. Some patients have been cured after their first visit with us and others have been coming for months and continue to improve but are not back to where they want to be yet. EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT! A positive attitude and the will to be compliant with your program will make you successful and get you back to better health.
Can we use your gym just to work out?
We are not a health club. We provide SKILLED services to our patients. This means it is medically necessary for patients to be receiving our services; HOWEVER, we do offer a fitness program for maintenance after you have completed your physical therapy program. This is offered to keep you in better health. This program is available to discharged patients and their family to use our gym (after being properly instructed on the use of all equipment)for the fee of $35.00 per month. The fitness program is available during normal business hours and you are encouraged to take part in it after the skilled physical therapy has been completed.
What do I need to be seen at First Choice?
We require you have a referral from a healthcare provider (doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner)to be seen at our clinic. This is for coordination of care and benefits you. After we have the referral from the provider you will then be scheduled for an initial evaluation. During the first appointment you and your therapist will establish a treatment plan. Your plan will be carried out and modified as needed to provide you the best care available and help you reach your goals. The therapist and referring provider will communicate on your progress. Physical Therapy is usually scheduled 2-3 times a week to begin and then as you advance the frequency may decrease.
Where are you located?
We are located at approximately mile 48.5 of the Parks Highway North of Wasilla. Our building is large and it is grey with white trim. There is a sign on the road and an awning on the building. You can't miss it!
What is the FCE
FCE stands for Functional Capacity Evaluation. Functional: Physical ability to perform a specific task. Functional refers to a defined, measurable movement. Capacity: General physical ability. Capacity refers to maximum, observable movement. Evaluation: Systematic process of observation, reason, and correlation to produce a conclusion. FCE: A comprehensive, objective evaluation of a worker's ability to perform job-related tasks. Physical Therapist, Jeff LePage, performs the FCE one-on-one with the patient over the course of two days, for several hours. During this intense evaluation, he assesses the patient's physical and functional limitations and abilities, and documents observations with regard to work and personal activities.
What are your business hours?
We are open from 7:00am to 8:00pm Monday through Friday. Later appointment times are available by request. We will schedule patients until 9:00pm if needed and take them as early as 6am if that's what works with your schedule. Our clinic is very flexible and understands different work/life schedules and will make every effort to make something work for your physical therapy needs. WE WANT TO BE YOUR FIRST CHOICE!
Will my insurance pay for a massage?
Every insurance is different. We have found some insurances that will pay for a massage with a script from a physician for medical necessity. Some insurances do not cover massage even with a script from a physician. IT IS IMPORTANT YOU CALL YOUR INSURANCE TO FIND OUT YOUR MASSAGE BENEFITS OR PROVIDE US WITH YOUR INSURANCE INFORMATION AND WE WILL CALL FOR YOU! If you are not covered by insurance we will expect payment in full at time of service.
Where Will My Massage or Bodywork Session Take Place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will Perform the Massage or Bodywork?
Your session will be conducted by a professional who has received proper taining, often in a variety of techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners are licensed by the state, while others are locally regulated. Although no two massages are exactly alike, you may request a certain technique or modality.
Must I Be Completely Undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed or with underware; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. You will be properly draped during the session.
Will the Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I Be Covered During the Session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What Parts of My Body Will Be Massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders.
Will Lubricant Be Used?
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.
What Will the Massage or Bodywork Feel Like?
It depends on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help to calm your nervous system and ease exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and relieve specific areas of muscular tension. You should communicate with your practitioner immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
Are There Diffetent Kinds of Massage and Bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork. Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, and more. Ask the practitioner about the methods he/she uses.
How Long Will the Session Last
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60-to-90 minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.
What Should I Do During the Massage or Bodywork Session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their session. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.
How Will I Feel After the Massage or Bodywork Session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity, which can last for days. If a deep tissue massage was given, you may feel tenderness in specific areas. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water afterward.