Patient Resources & FAQ
Everything you need to know before, during, and after your physical therapy visits at Z's Physical Therapy.
Your First Visit — What to Expect
Check-In
Arrive 15 minutes early to complete your new patient paperwork. Bring your insurance card, photo ID, referral (if required), and any relevant imaging reports (X-rays, MRI).
Evaluation
Your licensed PT will conduct a comprehensive one-on-one assessment — reviewing your medical history, understanding your goals, and performing a physical examination.
Treatment Plan
Your PT will explain their findings and outline a personalized treatment plan — including expected timeline, frequency of visits, and your active role in recovery.
Begin Treatment
Many patients begin treatment at their first visit. Subsequent sessions build on your progress with progressive exercise and hands-on therapy.
What to Bring
New Patients
- ✓ Valid photo ID (driver's license, state ID)
- ✓ Current insurance card(s)
- ✓ Physician referral (if your insurance requires one)
- ✓ List of current medications
- ✓ Relevant imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, CT scan)
- ✓ Surgical reports / operative notes (if applicable)
- ✓ Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- ✓ Supportive athletic shoes
What to Wear
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows your therapist to easily access the area being treated:
- ✓ Lower body: athletic shorts, yoga pants, or loose-fitting pants
- ✓ Upper body: tank top, loose t-shirt, or button-up shirt
- ✓ Supportive, closed-toe athletic shoes
- ✓ Avoid wearing jewelry that may interfere with treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Under Michigan Public Act 260 of 2014, you may seek physical therapy services without a physician referral — this is called "direct access." However, many insurance plans still require a physician referral for PT services to be covered. If you receive PT without a referral and your insurance requires one, you may be personally responsible for the cost of your treatment. Contact our office before your first visit and we'll help verify your specific requirements.
Your initial evaluation typically takes 45–60 minutes. This includes a thorough review of your history, physical examination, and an explanation of your treatment plan. Follow-up treatment sessions are also generally 45–60 minutes, though the exact duration may vary depending on your condition and treatment needs.
The number of visits varies significantly depending on your condition, its severity, your goals, your activity level, and how your body responds to treatment. After your initial evaluation, your PT will provide an estimated treatment timeline. We regularly reassess your progress and adjust recommendations accordingly. We always aim for the most efficient recovery possible while getting you the best results.
Some mild discomfort during exercises or manual therapy is normal and expected, especially in the early stages of treatment. However, we do not believe in a "no pain, no gain" philosophy. Your PT will always stay within your tolerance and adjust treatment if something causes significant pain. Communication is key — tell your PT how you're feeling during every session.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please call our office at (313) 767-1992 as early as you can so we can offer that time to another patient. Our front desk will go over our full appointment policies with you at your first visit.
Yes. Your PT will create a customized home exercise program (HEP) to complement your in-clinic treatment. These exercises are a critical part of your recovery and help you maintain and build on the progress you make during your sessions. Your PT will instruct you on each exercise and provide written or digital instructions.
Yes. Post-surgical rehabilitation is one of our core services. We work closely with your surgeon's post-operative protocol and communicate with your surgical team to ensure your recovery is safe and effective. Please bring any post-operative care instructions or activity restrictions to your first appointment.
You have the right to access and obtain copies of your medical records. To request your records, contact our office directly at (313) 767-1992 or help@zsphysicaltherapy.com. We will process records requests in accordance with HIPAA and Michigan law. See our Notice of Privacy Practices for more information about your rights.