Physical Therapy

Rehab Guidelines

ACL Rehab Guidelines
Bankart Repair Rehab Guidelines
Rotator Cuff (Large Tear) Rehab Guidelines
Rotator Cuff (Medium Tear) Rehab Guidelines
Rotator Cuff (Small Tear) Rehab Guidelines
SLAP Repair Rehab Guidelines
Total Shoulder Rehab Guidelines

FAQ’s

Will my insurance cover Physical Therapy (PT) at Prairie Orthopaedic & Plastic Surgery, PC (POPS)?

While our PT’s are in-network with most local insurance companies, be sure to check with your individual insurance company to determine if POPS PT is in your network and if your policy places restrictions on the number of PT visits per year.

How long does a therapy session last?

The first session usually lasts about 1 hour. The remaining sessions will average between 30 to 45 minutes. The total amount of sessions you attend, or the length of your entire physical therapy plan, varies based on each individual. Some may heal faster, have a higher pain tolerance, or could have different problems associated with their specific injury. 

Regardless, patience is a virtue. Physical therapy takes time and can be painful, but you will improve. Physical therapists have dates in mind, but it’s also a good idea to work with your therapist to schedule goals based on progress – not duration.

What should I wear to Physical Therapy?

You should wear comfortable loose fitting clothing that would make it easy to exercise in. Keep in mind the body part being treated. For example knee patients should bring or wear shorts, shoulder patients should wear loose fitting T-shirts or tank tops to allow access to the shoulder.

As for shoes, wear shoes that offer good support, such as athletic shoes. Avoid heals, flats, sandals, or dress shoes as they do not provide adequate support.

Make sure to pack adequate clothes of you are coming to physical therapy from work. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry and clothes that are too tight and restrict mobility. 

Who will see me?
We employ only licensed Physical Therapists. Our therapists have over 55 years of experience combined. We occasionally have student interns that will be involved with your treatment. We do not employ physical therapy assistants or aides, therefore all of your treatments will be with one of our licensed physical therapists.

What can I expect to happen at my first visit?

During your first physical therapy appointment, you can expect the therapist to review your medical history and the nature of your injury. Evaluate your range of motion, pain, strength, and functional use of the affected extremity and then make a diagnosis, list of goals and treatment plan. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and will likely include a home exercise program or possible follow up appointments if deemed necessary.

This is essentially a get to know you session for both the patient and the physical therapist. The therapist will answer any questions you have—such as the questions on this page. It’s also important to prepare for your visits by writing down specifics on your medical history, especially if you believe it relates to your therapy. In this session, you will receive clear instructions on what they expect of you and what will ultimately get you to the finish line.

Can I only come to Physical Therapy at Prairie Orthopaedic & Plastic Surgery if I am a patient of Dr. Patrick Hurlbut’s?

No, POPS can accept Physical Therapy referrals from any primary care physician or specialist. All that is needed is a prescription for PT from the referring physician and then you can call to schedule an appointment.

Do you only treat shoulder, elbow, and hand problems at Prairie Orthopaedic & Plastic Surgery Physical Therapy?

No, all of our therapists have years of experience with general orthopaedic injuries, including the neck, back, hip, knee and ankle. With over 55 years of combined experience, we will find the right fit for you.

Erica Heiman, PT, DPT, MSA, OCS, CHT: Erica focuses on shoulders, hands, and upper extremity rehabilitation.

Julie Obear, PT, DPT, CHT: One of the few certified hand therapist in Lincoln, holding the impressive designation of Board Certified Hand Therapist.

Carol Ortlieb, PT, MPT: Focuses on manual therapy as well as treatment of spinal conditions and sports injuries.

John Chatwell, DPT: John is certified in LSVT BIG, an intensive, amplitude focused physical therapy exercise program for treating individuals with Parkinson’s disease.