What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy is a treatment approach aimed at improving mobility, reducing pain, and restoring function through various techniques, including exercises, manual therapy, and education. It is often used to treat injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions.
What conditions can physical therapy treat?
Physical therapy can effectively treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to orthopedic injuries, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation, neurological disorders, sports injuries, chronic pain, and balance or coordination issues.
How do I know if I need physical therapy?
If you are experiencing pain, limited mobility, or difficulty performing daily activities, you may benefit from physical therapy. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine if physical therapy is appropriate for your situation.
What should I expect during my first appointment?
During your first appointment, the physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a review of your medical history and a physical assessment of your condition. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How long do physical therapy sessions typically last?
Physical therapy sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific treatment and individual needs.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required varies based on the severity of your condition and your response to treatment. Your therapist will provide a recommended treatment plan, which may be adjusted as you progress.
Will physical therapy hurt?
While some discomfort may occur during treatment, especially if you are recovering from an injury, physical therapy should not be excessively painful. Your therapist will work within your comfort level and modify techniques as needed.
Do I need a referral from a doctor to see a physical therapist?
In many cases, you can see a physical therapist without a referral. However, some insurance plans may require a physician’s referral. Check with your insurance provider and Teton Therapy’s in-house Billing Department at 307-463-0462 to understand what you might pay for Physical Therapy services at Teton Therapy.
Can physical therapy help with chronic pain?
Yes, physical therapy can be beneficial for managing chronic pain. Therapists use various techniques to address underlying issues, improve function, and teach coping strategies to help manage pain more effectively.
How can I prepare for my physical therapy appointment?
To prepare for your appointment, wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Bring any relevant medical documents, a list of medications, and any questions you may have for your therapist.
What can I do at home to complement my physical therapy?
Our physical therapists may provide you with exercises and activities to do at home. Following their guidance, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying active can significantly enhance your recovery.
What types of education/training do your therapists have?
Physical therapists have years of University level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. Our physical therapists have graduated from accredited physical therapy programs and are state-licensed. Depending on the university, the physical therapy program is either a master’s or doctorate level degree. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.
Do you offer programs for me once I’m better?
Yes, once you have completed your therapy sessions, your therapist will review your continuing home program. We do offer a variety of programs to continue your strengthening and fitness goals, maintain your health, and prevent injury. Ask your therapist today for more details.
What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy helps people participate in the activities they need or want to do, like getting dressed, preparing meals, working, or enjoying their favorite activities. Our therapists focus on building strength, improving coordination, and adapting routines so daily life feels easier and more rewarding.
What conditions can occupational therapy treat?
OT can help with a wide range of challenges, including:
- Recovery after surgery or injury
- Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or other neurological conditions
- Arthritis or chronic pain
- Difficulty with hand or upper body movement
- Developmental delays or sensory issues in children
How do I know if I need occupational therapy?
You may benefit from OT if you’re recovering from a medical event, struggling with everyday tasks, or feeling limited by pain or stiffness. If simple routines like bathing, writing, or cooking feel harder than they used to, OT can help restore your function and confidence.
What should I expect during my first appointment?
Your first visit at Teton Therapy includes a one-on-one evaluation where we talk about your goals, medical history, and challenges. We’ll assess your movement, strength, and coordination, then create a personalized therapy plan designed around your lifestyle.
How long do occupational therapy sessions typically last?
Most sessions last about 45 to 60 minutes. Your therapist will guide you through targeted exercises, activities, and strategies that support the real-life improvements that matter most to you. We work at your pace so you can feel supported, not pressured.
How many sessions will I need?
Every patient is different. Some people see improvement in just a few visits, while others benefit from ongoing support. We’ll check your progress regularly and adjust your plan to help you reach your goals efficiently and safely.
Do I need a referral from a doctor to see an occupational therapist?
In many cases, no referral is needed to start OT. However, some insurance plans may require one. We’re happy to check your benefits and help with any paperwork so you can get started without delays.
How can I prepare for my occupational therapy appointment?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in. Bring any questions you have, and let us know about your daily routines or specific tasks you’d like to improve. The more we know, the better we can support your progress.
What types of education and training do your occupational therapists have?
Our occupational therapists are highly trained professionals with the education and clinical experience needed to deliver expert, personalized care.
All of our licensed occupational therapists hold:
- A Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
- National board certification through the NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy)
- State licensure to practice in Wyoming
In addition to formal education, our therapists complete ongoing training in areas like hand therapy, neurological rehabilitation, pediatric care, and adaptive equipment. This commitment to continuing education ensures we provide the most up-to-date, evidence-based care for our patients.
Will my insurance cover physical or occupational therapy?
Most insurance plans provide coverage for physical or occupational therapy, but the extent of coverage can vary. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
What if I do not have insurance?
Teton Therapy won’t turn a patient away for this reason!
If you do not have insurance, that’s okay. For patients who do not have insurance, we offer cash-based options due at the time of service.
Please get in touch with our Riverton, WY, Lander, WY or Cheyenne, WY clinic and speak to our front desk about costs and setting up payment plans.
What office policies should I be aware of?
Attendance Expectations
- Your therapist will provide you with a plan of care during your initial evaluation appointment. This plan will explain the number of visits per week and the estimated number of weeks that it will take to achieve your goals. We expect attendance at all of your therapy visits.
- Patients who attend all of their therapy visits are 93% more likely to fully recover from an injury than those who miss even 1 visit.
- We know that you will not reach full recovery if you do not attend your appointments. We will work with you to schedule your full plan of care after your evaluation.
- We expect that you arrive at least 5 minutes before your appointment time ready to begin on time. If you are late, we can not guarantee a full treatment session. Please call us immediately if you are running late so we can prepare and adjust if possible. If you are more than 15 minutes late, your session may need to be rescheduled, and you will be subject to the Missed Visit Policy below. Chronically late patients may be asked to change their appointment times.
- Our schedule is very full and certain time slots are not always available for patients who need them. If you need to change a scheduled appointment for any reason, we require a business day’s notice during business hours, so we have enough time to help someone else who needs an appointment time.
- When you call to cancel an appointment, have your schedule ready as we will reschedule you right away.
- Cancellations, no-shows, and reschedules without a business day’s notice during business hours are subject to the Missed Visit Policy below.
- We look forward to working with you to meet your goals.
Missed Visit Policy
- If you need to change a scheduled appointment for any reason, we require a business day’s notice during business hours, so we have enough time to help someone else who needs an appointment time.
- Same-day cancellations and appointment no-shows are not permitted as they keep other patients from getting the care they need.
- When applicable by law, a $20.00 fee will be added to your account if you do not provide at least a business day’s notice of an appointment change or cancellation. This is non – negotiable and it is your responsibility. No insurance will pay for a Missed Visit Fee. This fee is to be paid at or prior to your next appointment.
- We understand illness can strike at any time. We still expect that you will give proper notice of the cancellation and reschedule the missed visit.
- To avoid the $20.00 Missed Visit Fee, call our office during business hours at least ONE BUSINESS DAY in advance for any appointment changes or cancellations, including illness and emergencies.
- Patients who have multiple same-day cancellations or no-shows will be removed from the schedule and your physician will be notified of non-compliance with therapy.
- Worker’s compensation patients – We are required to notify your case manager of any cancellation or no-show and future benefits may be affected.

