Has this ever happened to you?
You have lingering pain in your lower back, particularly when you get off work. You know you need to have it checked out, but your doctor’s office is backed up, and it’ll be at least a month before you can see them. In the meantime, you can’t take off, so your pain just worsens.
At Terry Physical Therapy, we hear this story time and time again, and we know how frustrating it is. That’s why we’re so pleased to share that a new law in Texas allows you to visit our clinic for injury or pain without getting a doctor’s referral first.
This new law has to do with what’s known as direct access. It means you can make an appointment with a physical therapist without needing a prescription or referral from a physician. Specifically, the new law allows you to seek direct access care from a PT for up to 30 calendar days. Previously, you only had direct access to a physical therapist for 10-15 business days.
This change means faster care, less pain, and quicker returns to work and family life.
That said, we know laws surrounding medical care can be confusing. We want to help you understand what this law means and how it can benefit you by answering some frequently asked questions.
What You Need To Know About Direct Access
How long can I see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral?
The new direct access law has to do with how long you can see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. You can now work with Terry Physical Therapy’s licensed physical therapists for 30 consecutive days without worrying about a referral. After 30 days, if you need more care, a physician will need to sign off for treatment to continue.
Why is this important for me and my family?
Direct access is particularly beneficial for hardworking people who can’t afford to miss days on the job. If you’re dealing with back pain, knee problems, shoulder injuries, or need help after surgery, you can now start therapy right away, which helps you get back to work (and daily life) that much faster.
In addition to saving time, you can also potentially save money, as cutting out extra visits can reduce healthcare costs, including unnecessary imaging or medications.
What kinds of conditions can Terry Physical Therapy treat directly?
Back and Neck Pain
- For example, from lifting, long hours of work, or accidents
Other Joint Pain or Injuries
- Including shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, and wrists
Repetitive Work Injuries
- Injuries that stem from repeated motions
Balance and Dizziness Issues
- Including addressing vertigo or reducing fall risk
Chronic Pain
- Helping you manage long-term pain symptoms, including those from arthritis
What Treatments are Covered Under Direct Access?
We offer several treatment options to help you find relief, and you can utilize any of them under the new direct access law! Some of the techniques we frequently use to address injury and pain include the following:
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques to relieve stiffness and restore motion
Modalities
- Advanced tools like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat or cold therapy to ease pain and maximize healing
Therapeutic Exercise Programs
- Targeted exercises that strengthen weak muscles and improve mobility and function
Balance Training
- Specialized techniques to help improve balance stability and lower fall risk
Neuromuscular Re-education
- Exercises designed to help your nerves and muscles work together again after injury or illness
Personalized Guidance
- Tips and strategies to help you move safely at work, home, and during exercise, so problems don’t return
Will Insurance Cover Direct Access Visits?
It depends on your provider and specific insurance plan. It’s important to understand that the new law means the state of Texas no longer requires a physician referral for the first 30 days of treatment. Some insurance plans will still require you to get a referral before starting physical therapy, although many don’t, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Our staff can help confirm your coverage and explain payment options if needed.
Take Control of Your Health with Direct Access
At Terry Physical Therapy, we are so excited about this new direct access law because it means our wonderful patients no longer have to wait to get care for their pain. Our team is ready to help you take advantage of this new opportunity.
Don’t wait weeks. Relief can start now. Schedule your initial appointment today.
Indulge in layers of creamy sweetness with these Bananas Foster Parfaits, featuring caramelized bananas and a hint of warm spice. This elegant yet easy dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.
Feel Better by Eating Better!
Bananas Foster Parfaits
- 2 large ripe bananas
- 6 Tbsp dark brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened apple juice
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups plain 2% reduced-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Peel bananas and cut each in half lengthwise. Cut each half into 3 pieces. Combine sugar, apple juice, and butter in a nonstick skillet. Cook over medium-low heat for 3 minutes or until mixture begins to bubble. Add bananas to pan; cook for 2 minutes or until bananas begin to soften. Spoon 1/2 cup yogurt into the bottom of each of 4 parfait glasses. Divide banana mixture evenly among glasses. Top each serving with 1 tablespoon chopped and toasted pecans.
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Exercise of the Month
SQUATS
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and arms extended in front of you for balance. Slowly bend your knees and lower your hips as if sitting back into a chair, keeping your chest lifted and knees behind your toes. Push through your heels to return to standing.
3 Sets, 10 Reps. (Materials needed: none)
You Deserve to Feel Your Best!
Ready to continue your progress? Schedule your next appointment with Terry Physical Therapy today, and let’s get you back to feeling your best! Whether you’re recovering from an injury or maintaining your wellness, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Kids Heading Back to School? Here’s How to Help Them Avoid Back Pain
Between laptops, tablets, and old-fashioned textbooks, heavy backpacks are a reality for anyone starting school this fall (including the teachers!). Improper backpack usage can contribute to back pain, particularly in the upper back–but a few simple tips will help keep your kids pain-free this school year.
- Find a backpack that fits. Most kids choose backpacks for their coolness factor, not their size, but it’s important your child’s backpack is the right fit for them. A properly fitting (and properly filled) backpack should rest on the hips, not the shoulders.
- Don’t go too heavy. A backpack shouldn’t exceed 10% of your child’s body weight. Bust out the bathroom scale to ensure your child isn’t overloading their pack!
- Encourage good posture. Help your child find their ideal posture by asking them to lift their chest/sternum up toward the sky, which helps their spine settle into proper alignment.
Want more back-to-school backpack tips? Call Terry Physical Therapy to schedule a personalized assessment to help identify any areas of weakness or impairment that might be contributing to backpack-related discomfort–and strategies for resolving them!
September Word Scramble
tnuamu
plaep
uxqoien
olatbflo
ratesvh
caron
Answer Key
autumn
apple
equinox
football
harvest
acorn
As Friday night lights illuminate the field and the spirit of football echoes throughout the community, ensure that back pain doesn’t get in the way while rooting for your team in the stands. Experience the thrill of the season without the discomfort of back pain. Our treatments are designed for your unique needs, ensuring you’re game-day-ready every time.
- Effective treatments to alleviate pain and guard against future flare-ups.
- Customized strategies to boost your mobility and strength so you can cheer on your favorite teams without hesitation.
- Tips to enjoy those tailgate barbecues and halftime huddles without a second thought to your back.
Get ready to chant, cheer, and celebrate without restraint. Connect with Terry Physical Therapy today, and let’s ensure you’re in prime shape for every touchdown this season!
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Meet Our Team
Administration
Marsha Terry
RN MSN- Administrator
Letty Rosales
Office Manager
Monica Gutierrez
Billing Manager
