FAQ’s

Will my insurance cover the costs?
Yes, we accept most insurance companies except UPMC. They have their own network. However, we do have a special program for UPMC patients that is very affordable and it’s typically the cost of their copay. Please call our office for more details.

Will I experience pain during my physical therapy treatment?
In most cases, no. If you are being seen for pain, our goal is to have you feeling better during and after the treatment. If you’ve recently undergone surgery, you may have additional pain or mild discomfort. We make every effort to keep your discomfort at a minimum, and in certain cases, we have affordable electrical stimulation units available for home use.

Do I need an appointment?
Yes, our initial evaluation and treatments are extremely thorough so it is important to schedule adequate time.

Can I come without first seeing my doctor?
In most cases, you can now access physical therapy directly. Call our office to see if your insurance allows for direct access.

If my doctor recommends physical therapy, do I have a choice of where to go?
Yes, you are free to select your provider as long as your insurance will pay.

If my doctor owns a physical therapy clinic, am I obligated to go there?
No, you are always free to choose the physical therapy provider that you prefer. The doctor should give you a choice of providers in the area near your home or workplace.

What should I expect when I visit your clinic?
During your first appointment, you will be required to fill out paperwork necessary for billing and a questionnaire regarding your medical history. You will then be taken to a room where a friendly staff member will take your medical history and vitals. The physical therapist will then review your history and perform an initial evaluation. After that, you will be provided with a summary of the treatment plan, schedule, and have an opportunity to ask any additional questions. On the next visit, no further paperwork should be necessary and you will begin treatment immediately.

How early should I arrive for my first appointment?
For your initial visit, please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time so all necessary paperwork can be completed.

How long will each appointment last?
This depends greatly on the treatment plan required, but the average time per visit is approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

What type of clothing should I wear to my appointment?
We generally recommend shorts or other loose fitting clothing. If necessary, gowns or capes will be provided.

Should I expect pain after each visit?
Generally, you should feel little or no pain. However, under certain conditions, you may experience mild discomfort following the treatment. If this occurs, taking your pain medications and resting will usually relieve the symptoms. You can also apply heat or ice as per your physical therapist’s instructions. Should you experience any severe pain or have other concerns, please feel free to call our office and ask to speak with your physical therapist. If you are calling after normal office hours, our answering service will notify us and we will return your call as soon as possible.

Will I be sore after the initial evaluation?
We do a very thorough examination and take special effort not to cause you discomfort. Occasionally, you may experience an increase in soreness or discomfort. Resting and taking your pain medication or over the counter pain relievers will help.

How long will it take to get an appointment?
In most cases, we can schedule you for an appointment within 24 hours.

How frequently will I have to undergo therapy?
Depending on your condition, most patients are treated three days a week for 4 to 8 weeks.

When I call the office, will I be dealing with an automated answering service or a live person?
In order to provide a higher level of personalized support, we do not use an automated answering service. Anytime you call, even if after hours, you will speak with a live person.

During the time that I am exercising, will supervision and/or assistance be available to me?
Yes, you will be closely monitored and supervised by our trained staff while exercising. Our goal has always been personalized patient care.

Will the same staff members work with me during each visit, or someone different?
Yes, we work in teams consisting of a physical therapist, physical therapy assistant, and an aide. You will be assigned to a specific team and will only see members of that team during each visit.

How do I know that my treatments are working?
We use an evidence-based treatment approach, and although there are no guarantees, the vast majority of our patients experience an improvement in their condition. We track the progress of each patient with specific measures and then demonstrate that progress to you.

How long has Bradley Physical Therapy Clinic been in business?
Our clinic was founded in 1977.

Are you owned by a chain, physicians group, or other large corporate entity?
No, we are locally owned and operated. We are all active in contributing to the local community with our time and resources.

Are you listed in the Better Business Bureau?
Yes we are, and you can confirm our A+ rating.

Do you track patient satisfaction?
Yes, over the past 25+ years, we’ve averaged a higher than 99% patient satisfaction rating.

Do you offer free parking?
Yes, a large, level parking lot is located adjacent to our clinic entrance.

Where is your clinic located?
We currently have two locations, one in Washington and one in Southpointe. Please click on the location of your choice for a map and directions.

How experienced is your staff?
The majority of our staff is very experienced and has been practicing for several years. Staff turnover is a rarity at our clinic, so there’s a high likelihood that you will be able to continue dealing with the same therapist should you return at a later time for treatment of another condition.

How much education is required for a physical therapist?
Most physical therapists have a doctor in physical therapy degree which requires approximately 7 years post high school. In years past, the doctoral degree was not offered so some physical therapists have been grandfathered in. Regardless, each physical therapist must pass the same state boards in order to be licensed.

What if I do not have insurance?
We have a special private pay program. Please call the office for details.

Do you accept cash/credit/debit cards/HSA’s?
Yes, all major credit cards are accepted. In addition, we offer flexible payment plans.

Do you prescribe medications?
No, physical therapists do not prescribe medication.

Do your physical therapists stay updated on the latest techniques and continuing education?
Yes, we have a continuing education program that meets weekly. Also, we are required by state law to meet a certain number of approved clinical education hours each year. We are committed to continuing education and staying up to date on the latest research and technology.

Are you a clinical instructor site? If so, will students be working with me?
Yes, we have been an approved clinical instructor site for more than 30 years. Each student is under our supervision and is identified as such. If you wish not to be treated by a student, please notify your physical therapist.