05/21/2026
When Do I Schedule Physical Therapy for After Surgery?
To ensure you get a time that works best for you, we always recommend scheduling therapy if directed to do so by your surgeon once your surgery date is confirmed.
Will I Need Therapy Before Surgery?
Sometimes. Evidence shows that for certain procedures, therapy can be extremely beneficial to patients. When it is done before surgery, the idea is to help make the transition after surgery easier. We often refer to this as Prehab.
Do I Need a Referral for Therapy?
We encourage you to check with your insurance provider. Most require a referral from a physician, and some require prior authorization to receive ongoing care and treatment. Nebraska is a direct-access state which does allow you to see a physical therapist without a referral and would be directly billed to the patient. Your prescribing provider and our physical therapy team can help you navigate this process.
What Happens at My First Visit?
For most patients, the first visit is called an evaluation. Your therapist will work with you to establish an individualized plan of care to help address concerns and work toward your goals.
Your first visit usually also includes:
- A discussion of your symptoms and medical history
- A physical evaluation (movement, strength, flexibility, balance)
- A diagnosis or clinical impression
- A personalized treatment plan
- Initial exercises or treatments
What Should I Wear to Therapy?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, athletic clothing that allows easy movement. Depending on your injury, you may need:
- Shorts for knee or hip therapy
- Sleeveless or loose shirts for shoulder treatment
- Supportive athletic shoe
Where Can I Find Physical Therapy Protocols?
Our physical therapists will be able to discuss and educate on the protocol prescribed for you based on injury and specific findings from the surgeon during your procedure. If you are seeing a physical therapist outside of OrthoNebraska, your surgeon’s team should provide you with the appropriate protocol for you along with the physical therapy script. Call your surgeon’s team at (402) 609-3000 if you have questions or need this information.
Who Can I Ask About My Home Exercise Program?
If you are a current or previous patient, feel free to call (402) 609-1750 and leave a voicemail for your therapist. Otherwise, you may also contact your surgeon’s nurse at (402) 609-3000, option 1, option 2.
Will Physical Therapy be Painful?
Some discomfort can occur, especially when improving mobility or strength. However:
- Therapy should not cause severe pain
- Open, honest communication with your therapist will help ensure safe and effective care
- Your therapist will adjust treatment based on your tolerance and goals
How Long or Often Do I Need Therapy?
The length of effective treatment depends on:
- Your condition
- Severity of injury
- Your goals
- Consistency with attendance and home exercises
Some patients improve in a few sessions, while others may need several weeks or months.
However, your insurance company may also dictate this to some extent.
What Treatments are Used in Physical Therapy?
Treatment may include:
- Targeted strengthening and stretching exercises
- Joint mobilization (hands-on techniques)
- Soft tissue work (muscle and fascia)
- Balance and stability training
- Movement retraining (walking, lifting, sports-specific motions)
- Modalities (ice, heat, electrical stimulation)
- Graston technique
- Functional dry needling
- Other specialized modalities
Does Insurance Cover Physical Therapy?
Most insurance plans offer and encourage PT coverage, but benefits vary. You may be responsible for:
- Copays or coinsurance
- Deductibles
- Visit limits
Check with your insurance provider for specific details.
Can Physical Therapy Help Avoid Surgery?
In some cases, yes. Physical therapy is not only for post injury or post surgical rehab. It can:
- Strengthen muscles around injured areas
- Improve joint function
- Reduce pain
For certain conditions, PT may delay or eliminate the need for surgery.