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PHYSICAL THERAPY101 Student Health Center
Physical therapy (PT) is an accredited profession dedicated to serving patients with neuro-musculoskeletal injuries. The goal is to facilitate recovery of function to your desired level of activity. Emphasis is placed upon flexibility, strengthening, muscular endurance, balance, and pain relief. We provide services primarily to the student population. Students come to our facility with a variety of concerns including ankle sprains, knee or shoulder pain, chronic neck or back pain, pain related to a car accident or computer use, sports related injuries, and post-surgical conditions.
Our staff consists of licensed professionals including physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and athletic trainers. Students provide staff support through volunteer and internship opportunities. Click on the following link to meet our Physical Therapy Staff.
HOW DO I RECEIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY? Obtain a PT prescription order from your UHS clinician or from your private health care provider and call (814) 863-0774 to schedule an appointment. Direct access to physical therapy is also available. The Pennsylvania Physical Therapist Practice Act allows physical therapists to evaluate and treat patients meeting certain criteria for 30 days without a physician's order. However, students should check with their insurance company to verify that direct access is covered with their insurance plan.
WHAT WILL PHYSICAL THERAPY BE LIKE? Your initial evaluation will include a review of your medical history and your current problem with special tests conducted by a physical therapist to assess your condition. Be prepared to change into shorts and an examination gown for the initial evaluation. Based on the results of the evaluation, as well as your goals for rehabilitation, an individualized treatment plan will be devised for you. Treatments may include therapeutic exercise, manual therapy (soft tissue and joint mobilizations), ultrasound, electrical stimulation, traction, whirlpool, and paraffin bath. Frequency of treatment generally ranges from 1 to 3 treatments per week. Duration of treatment may range from 2 weeks to 2-3 months depending on your current condition. Don't worry, physical therapy is fun! With a little hard work and patience, your rehab goals will be met in no time.
There are separate fees for all physical therapy services. The fee depends on the type of therapy ordered by your clinician. Students are responsible for all charges. Click the link for more information about fees and insurance.
If you need to cancel your appointment, please call the appointment line (814) 863-0774 or cancel online at least two hours before the scheduled session. Voice mail is available 24 hours a day for cancellations. There is a charge for late cancellations and no-shows.
University Health Services Physical Therapy Volunteer Program offers opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or other health-related fields. Student volunteers are encouraged to observe the physical therapy staff, interact with patients and ask questions. For an application to be a PT volunteer, visit room 101 Student Health Center or e-mail elj5@psu.edu. Student volunteers are scheduled on a first come-first served semester basis. Hours/days usually range from 2-4 hours/1-2 days per week. Internship opportunities are also available. |
Updated October 28, 2009