When a therapist—whether a full-time employee or a traveling clinician—leaves a practice, it’s not uncommon to discover unfinished documentation, such as a missing discharge report. One of the most frequently asked questions in this scenario is whether another therapist who never treated the patient can write the discharge report based solely on the existing notes in the medical record. Technically, the answer is yes—another licensed therapist could write the discharge summary. However, the real question is: should they?

Any therapist who signs their name and credentials on a discharge report becomes part of that patient’s case, regardless of whether they ever interacted with the patient directly. This can present several concerns. If an insurance company requests the records, or if the patient has an active workers’ compensation claim, pending lawsuit, or any other legal matter related to their care, the therapist who authored and signed that report could be pulled into the case. Without firsthand knowledge of the patient’s condition, progress, and outcomes, the substitute therapist may be at a disadvantage in justifying the clinical decisions or summarizing the treatment provided. While it’s permissible for a different therapist to write the discharge report based on existing documentation, it’s important to weigh the potential risks. Ideally, the therapist who evaluated and treated the patient should complete the discharge report. If that’s not possible, practices should implement a clear policy and ensure thorough internal documentation to protect both clinicians and the integrity of patient care.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 305-570-1633, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Patients who began treatment before January 1, 2025 now have a new insurance plan for dates of service on or after that date. A frequent question that arises is whether a new evaluation is required when a patient switches insurance during an ongoing episode of outpatient therapy.

The good news is that in most cases, a new evaluation is not required simply because the patient changed insurance. The key exception is if the new insurance carrier specifically mandates a new evaluation. However, providers should be aware that the new insurance may require prior authorization to continue therapy services, even if a new evaluation is not necessary.

For patients who switch to original Medicare, a new evaluation is not required or appropriate. What is required, however, is a signed and dated plan of care starting from the first date of service billed to Medicare. This plan must be completed by the treating therapist and signed by the referring physician or nonphysician practitioner (NPP) responsible for overseeing the patient’s care. Also, keep in mind that this first visit under Medicare will count as visit one toward the 10-visit minimum progress report period.

If the patient transitions to a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, a new evaluation is also not typically required, unless the MA plan has a policy stating otherwise. However, similar to private insurance carriers, prior authorization may be necessary for dates of service under the new plan. It’s crucial to confirm the requirements of the specific MA plan to ensure compliance and avoid reimbursement delays.

In summary, while changing insurance during treatment doesn’t automatically require a new evaluation, it does often involve verifying prior authorization and updating documentation to align with the new payer’s policies. Staying ahead of these administrative steps helps ensure uninterrupted patient care and proper reimbursement.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 305-570-1633, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

La relación entre un accidente y la terapia física es directa y fundamental para la recuperación de muchos pacientes. Cuando una persona sufre un accidente, ya sea automovilístico, laboral, deportivo o doméstico, es común que experimente lesiones musculares, articulares, óseas o neurológicas. Estas lesiones pueden generar dolor, limitación del movimiento, pérdida de fuerza y dificultad para realizar actividades cotidianas. Ahí es donde entra la terapia física.

Objetivos de la Terapia Física después de un Accidente:

Reducir el dolor y la inflamación

Restaurar el rango de movimiento

Reforzar los músculos debilitados

Mejorar la coordinación y el equilibrio

La terapia física no solo ayuda al paciente a sanar físicamente, sino que también documenta el progreso del tratamiento, lo cual es útil en casos legales o de seguros. En muchos casos de accidentes automovilísticos, el tratamiento de fisioterapia es cubierto por el seguro del automóvil.

Si usted o alguien que conoce necesita terapia física, por favor llámenos al 800-481-4582.
Si está interesado en abrir una franquicia de Physical Therapy Now, envíenos un correo a franchise@physicaltherapynow.com o visite nuestro sitio web en www.physicaltherapynow.com/franchise.

Your body just did something incredible. But after pregnancy and childbirth, it’s totally normal to feel different. Maybe you’re dealing with back pain, pelvic pressure, etc. The good news? You don’t have to live with those symptoms—postpartum physical therapy can help.
Postpartum physical therapy focuses on helping your body recover from the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth. It’s not just for elite athletes or women recovering from C-sections, every new mom can benefit.
Think of it as rehab for your core, pelvic floor, posture, and movement patterns, all of which may have shifted during pregnancy.
You deserve to feel strong, confident, and supported in your body again. Pain, leaking, and core weakness aren’t things you just have to “live with” now that you’ve had a baby. postpartum physical therapy can help you:
• Move without pain
• Restore core and pelvic floor strength
• Feel more like yourself again
Whether your goal is to return to the gym, chase after toddlers, or simply sit and stand comfortably, Physical Therapy helps you get there.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Physical therapy can be incredibly effective in aiding recovery, but it’s essential to stay proactive and continue your self-care practices in between sessions. Here are some self-care tips to help you manage pain, improve mobility, and make the most out of your physical therapy treatment.
Follow Your Home Exercise Program
One of the most important things you can do is to follow the exercises your physical therapist gives you. Doing them regularly, as instructed, helps to reinforce the progress you’re making and can speed up recovery.
Rest and Recover
While staying active is important, it’s also crucial to give your body time to rest, especially after intense therapy sessions. Overloading your body can lead to setbacks.
Practice Proper Posture
Maintaining good posture throughout the day can help prevent unnecessary strain on muscles and joints. Poor posture can worsen pain and affect the progress you’re making in physical therapy.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is key to keeping muscles flexible and aiding in overall recovery. Dehydration can contribute to muscle cramps and stiffness, making your rehabilitation process more challenging.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

When it comes to physical therapy, most people think of exercises, stretches, and treatments designed to help the body heal from injury, surgery, or chronic pain. But did you know that nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting the healing process and optimizing the results of physical therapy? Proper nutrition can not only accelerate recovery but also help prevent further injury, boost energy levels, and improve overall performance.
Protein is a key player when it comes to repairing and rebuilding muscles, especially after injury or surgery. Physical therapy often involves strengthening exercises that challenge the muscles. Consuming an adequate amount of protein can provide the body with the necessary building blocks (amino acids) to rebuild muscle fibers and tissues.
After an injury or surgery, inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. Fortunately, certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and promote healing. These key nutrients include omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, curcumin and ginger.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Physical therapy isn’t just about addressing physical injuries or conditions, it also has a profound impact on mental health. While the primary focus is usually on the body’s physical recovery, the benefits of physical therapy extend beyond just healing muscles, joints, and bones. Research has increasingly shown that physical therapy can also support mental health, helping individuals cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Here’s how physical therapy can positively influence mental health:
When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, commonly known as the “feel-good” hormones. Endorphins act as natural painkillers, but they also boost your mood, reduce stress, and promote an overall sense of well-being.

People suffering from anxiety often experience tense muscles, tightness, and an overall sense of physical discomfort. Physical therapy includes targeted exercises that can help release muscle tension, ultimately reducing physical symptoms of anxiety.

Chronic pain or injury can lead to poor sleep, which in turn exacerbates mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Regular physical therapy can help individuals improve their mobility and reduce pain, making it easier for them to get better quality sleep.
¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Improving posture is essential for reducing strain on the muscles, joints, and ligaments, which can help prevent pain and improve overall body alignment. Here are some practical tips and exercises you can follow to improve posture.
Awareness is key so start by becoming more mindful of your posture throughout the day. Whether you’re sitting, standing, or walking, pay attention to how your body is aligned.
Use Posture Check Reminders, set reminders on your phone or use sticky notes in your workspace to remind yourself to check and correct your posture every hour.
Choose a chair and sit with your back supporting the natural curve of your lower back. Sit with your feet flat on the floor, knees at a right angle, and avoid slumping or leaning forward. Sitting for long periods can lead to poor posture. Stand up, stretch, or walk around every 30-60 minutes to prevent stiffness and maintain good alignment. Proper sleep position benefit in your posture also.
Improving your posture takes time and consistency, but by incorporating these tips and exercises into your daily routine, you can build better posture habits and reduce the risk of discomfort or pain.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy, please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Surgery is often seen as a last resort for injuries and chronic pain, but what if there was a way to heal and regain function without going under the knife? In many cases, physical therapy (PT) can help patients avoid surgery altogether by addressing the root cause of pain, improving mobility, and strengthening the body to support healing.
In this blog, we’ll explore how PT can be an effective alternative to surgery for common conditions, and when it’s worth considering before opting for an invasive procedure.
Surgery comes with risks—complications, long recovery times, and potential side effects. Physical therapy, on the other hand, is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and often safer alternative. Through hands-on techniques, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like heat, ice, and electrical stimulation, PT helps decrease pain without relying on painkillers or surgery. Weak muscles and poor biomechanics can contribute to injuries. PT targets these issues, improving strength and stability to prevent further damage. Instead of just treating symptoms, PT identifies underlying problems (such as poor posture or muscular imbalances) that, if corrected, can prevent the need for surgery.

¨If you or someone you know might need physical therapy. Please call us at 800-481-4582, or if you are interested in opening a Physical Therapy Franchise. Email us franchise@physicaltherapynow.com or visit our website at www.physicaltherapynow/franchise¨

Movement is essential for overall health and well-being. It goes beyond structured exercise and simple activities like walking, stretching, and standing all contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Here’s why movement is crucial in daily life:
It benefits physically and healthy with improving the cardiovascular health – Regular movement strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
Boosts muscle and bone strength – Helps maintain muscle mass and bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Aids digestion – Physical activity stimulates digestion and prevents constipation.
Enhances flexibility and balance – Reduces the risk of falls and injuries.
Mental and emotional well-being
Reduces stress and anxiety – Movement releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress.
Boosts brain function – Improves memory, concentration, and creativity.
Enhances sleep quality – Regular movement helps regulate sleep patterns.
Weight management
Burns calories – Helps maintain a healthy weight by increasing energy expenditure.
Regulates metabolism – Supports efficient energy use in the body.
Prevents health issues
Lowers the risk of chronic diseases – Reduces the chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Improves immune function – Helps the body fight off infections.

Physical Therapy Now
Franchise opportunity
800-481-4582

404!