FAQ
What makes The Movement Clinic different from other PT services?
The care you will receive from our providers is unparalleled to your typical in-network physical therapy experience in Pasadena.
Your PT will never be seeing multiple patients at the same time, pass you off to a volunteer/aide, or have you work through the same ‘cookie-cutter’ exercises week in and week out.
Your entire visit is spent 1:1 with one of our highly specialized Doctors of Physical Therapy where we will clearly outline the root factors contributing to your pain experience and lay out a game plan for a path to recovery.
Do you take my insurance?
Yes, as an out-of-network provider in Pasadena, we provide you with all the necessary paperwork (‘superbills’) that give you the opportunity to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
What should I expect during my first visit?
We are problem solvers! You will receive 60 minutes of focused 1 on 1 care at our Pasadena clinic and each visit is with a highly specialized Doctor of Physical Therapy. We take you through our three step process where we listen and learn about your situation, assess your body, and develop a road map to getting you better than you were before your injury.
Do I need a referral from my doctor before attending Physical Therapy?
California law allows patients to directly access physical therapy services without a physician’s referral. Patients can seek evaluation and treatment for up to 45 days or 12 visits, whichever comes first, before a signed plan of care from a physician is required. This allows for faster, cost-effective, and direct care for injuries or pain.
How many times should I expect to be seen?
This depends on your specific situation, diagnosis, and goals. In most cases, we have you feeling significant improvement in a matter of 2-3 visits.
We strive to minimize the number of sessions you need by providing you with the tools, education, and understanding of how to recover to be better than you were before needing PT.
Recovering from an injury is never black and white; however, we look to provide you with a road map for your recovery through a customized, collaborative plan with one of our expert clinicians.
What should I expect to do between visits?
Physical therapy is a different approach than taking something like a pill or injection. We are looking to address your problem through bodily changes that take dedication, time, and consistency throughout each week.
Between visits, you will be provided a list of exercises via custom video recordings and education on how you can best keep yourself active, moving, and exercising.
All the while, you have the ability to maintain open communication with your PT for any questions or guidance you need between visits.
What do I need to wear or bring with me?
You should dress in comfortable, loose clothing that allows you to move easily and doesn’t restrict circulation. Depending on your condition, your physical therapist may also recommend special shoes or a brace. You should also bring any paperwork related to your medical history, including x-rays, ultrasounds, and doctor’s notes.
Is there anything I can do before my appointment to prepare?
Yes! Make sure you arrive for your session well-rested so that you can give it your full attention and energy. It is also helpful if you keep track of how much pain medication (if any) you take prior to the appointment so that the physical therapist can adjust the intensity of treatment accordingly.
How long will my physical therapy sessions last?
Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes depending on your condition and the types of techniques used. Your physical therapist will give you an estimate when you first arrive for your appointment.
What if I have questions after my physical therapy session?
Your physical therapist should be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your treatment plan before and after each visit. You can also contact the clinic directly for further assistance. We want you to get the most out of every session!
How long will it take for me to see results?
Every person’s situation is unique; therefore the amount of time needed to reach goals varies. With commitment and dedication from both you and your physical therapist, you can expect to start seeing results within a few weeks. The more positive lifestyle changes you make, the faster your progress will be!
Will my physical therapist be able to answer any questions I have about my condition?
Yes! Your physical therapist should be available to discuss any concerns or questions you have regarding your condition or treatment plan. Don’t hesitate to bring up any issues that may arise during the course of therapy.
What if I feel too much pain during a session?
If at any time during your physical therapy session you experience increased pain, it’s important to let your therapist know so they can adjust the intensity or technique as necessary. Your therapist will work with you to make sure that treatment is comfortable and effective for you
How will I know when I no longer need physical therapy?
Your physical therapist should be able to provide guidance on when it is appropriate to stop attending physical therapy sessions based on your progress, goals, and overall health status. It’s important to listen to your therapist and continue with treatment until they feel you are ready to move on.

