Client Center
Welcome!
This section is where you'll find information about your first visit, what forms to fill out, and soon, there will be videos and more downloads available to support you on your path to wellness.
Forms
Please go to the Forms page to download and print the paperwork you'll need to get started at our first visit. It's important to take the time to fill out the forms before your appointment, so that we can make the most of our time together.
What to expect at your first visit?
We will spend the first part of the hour going over your symptoms and areas of concern: what hurts or is weak, what makes things better or worse, your health and injury history, work and recreational activities, previous treatment (helpful or not), and review any film studies such as XRays, MRI or CT scans. I feel it is essential for me to listen to your story so that I can understand the nature of the problem, the severity and irritability of your symptoms, stage of recovery, and, most importantly, your goals for treatment. I will then do a physical evaluation including flexibility and strength testing, observing movement patterns, and palpation (evaluation by touch). Together, we will formulate a plan of treatment taking your goals and concerns into consideration and begin treatment and instruction in a home program.
Why should I go to physical therapy – can't I get better on my own?
Many injuries can heal and get better on their own; our body has tremendous healing potential. Sometimes, in order to heal, we need a little help with joint or soft tissue tightness, weakened muscles, poor movement adaptations / mechanics, or underlying issues that may have led to the injury or are in the way of healing.
A physical therapist is uniquely qualified to rehabilitate an injury with the correct movement patterns in place of faulty habits. Physical therapists are trained to identify movement dysfunctions and compensatory changes related to your diagnosis, as well as educate you about what injury does to your body, how to correct it, and teach you how to prevent further injuries.
A Pilates professional can help you move with strength and flexibility "from the inside out," the way that our bodies were meant to move. Kathleen has over 30 years practicing physical therapy and incorporating Pilates into rehabilitation so that you can truly "return to life" and get back to doing what you love to do!
As a patient, what can I do to assure the best possible outcome?
First, recognize that you play the most important role in your own recovery. I encourage patients to act as full partners in the treatment process. Comply with your therapy schedule and attend all of your sessions; follow through on your home exercise programs; and communicate often and completely with me regarding any problems or concerns you may experience. Physical therapy is an active process that requires interaction with your therapist, and the full commitment of therapist and patient. Ask questions and be receptive to suggestions regarding exercise, lifestyle changes and adjustments or modifications of your daily activities, and feel free to tell me if something is not working well for you.