Best Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy in Wayne, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
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Will physical therapy hurt?
We work closely with you to ensure comfort throughout treatment. While you may experience some muscle soreness similar to after exercise, I adjust techniques based on your tolerance. Most patients are surprised by how much better they feel after their first session. We start gently and progress gradually as your body allows. You're always in control - if something doesn't feel right, we modify the approach immediately. My goal is to reduce your pain, not create more. The treatment should feel therapeutic, not punishing.
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What should I expect during my first appointment?
I'll spend 45-60 minutes evaluating your condition. We'll discuss your pain history, what triggered it, and how it affects your daily life. Then I'll examine your posture, movement, strength, and perform specific tests for your condition. You'll get a clear explanation of what's wrong, my treatment plan, realistic timeline, and home exercises. Bring your insurance card, ID, medication list, any recent X-rays or MRIs, and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Every evaluation is thorough and individualized.
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How do I know if physical therapy will work for my condition?
Based on 25+ years treating thousands of patients, I can give you realistic expectations. Acute injuries, recent shoulder problems, knee issues, and most back pain respond very well (85-95% success rate). Chronic conditions and complex cases have good success rates (70-85%) but take longer. Success depends on starting early, following your home program, and having realistic expectations. If you don't improve within 2-3 visits, I'll reassess and modify treatment or refer you elsewhere.
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Does my insurance cover physical therapy? What will it cost me?
Most insurance plans cover PT. You'll typically pay a $20-50 copay per visit. Medicare covers 80% after your deductible but requires a physician's prescription - we can help coordinate this. Workers' comp and auto insurance often cover 100%. I handle all insurance verification and billing so you know costs upfront. Cash rates are available if you prefer not to use insurance. PT costs much less than surgery or long-term medications.
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Do I need a doctor's referral to start physical therapy?
In New Jersey, no referral is needed for most conditions under our direct access laws. However, Medicare patients DO need a physician's prescription for coverage. Some insurance plans also require referrals. I'll verify your specific requirements when you call. If you need a referral, I can provide a detailed evaluation report to take to your doctor. Don't let paperwork delay your treatment - we'll help you navigate the requirements.
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How many sessions will I need and how often?
It depends on your condition. Minor injuries typically need 6-12 sessions over 3-6 weeks. Chronic problems or moderate conditions need 12-20 sessions over 6-10 weeks. Post-surgical rehabilitation requires 20-36 sessions over 8-16 weeks. You'll start at 2-3 times per week, then reduce frequency as you improve. I give you one-on-one attention for 45-60 minutes each visit. Most patients start feeling better within 1-2 weeks and return to normal activities by 8+ weeks.
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Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery?
In many cases, yes. Research shows PT is as effective as surgery for many conditions like meniscus tears, rotator cuff injuries, and spinal stenosis. In my practice, 85% of back pain patients avoid recommended surgery, and 75% of shoulder patients recover without surgery. However, some conditions do require surgery - complete tears, fractures, or progressive neurological problems. I'll be honest about whether PT can help your specific situation or if surgery is truly necessary.
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What conditions do you treat at Spectrum Therapeutics?
I treat virtually any musculoskeletal problem. Common conditions include back and neck pain, herniated discs, sciatica, shoulder injuries, knee problems, hip pain, ankle sprains, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, headaches, and TMJ disorders. I also handle post-surgical rehabilitation, balance problems, dizziness, sports injuries, and work-related injuries. If you have pain or movement problems affecting muscles, joints, or bones, I can likely help. Call if you're unsure about your specific condition.
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What makes you different from other physical therapy clinics?
Dr. Rob's 25+ years of experience means he can quickly identify your problem and develop the most effective treatment approach. Dr. Rob ensures each person receives the focused attention they need during their treatment. He uses hands-on manual therapy techniques that provide immediate relief, which many clinics don't offer. You get personalized care based on your specific condition and goals, not cookie-cutter protocols. Our approach combines efficiency with quality - maximizing your results while respecting your time and our ability to help more people in our community.
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How long will my treatment take? When will I feel better?
Most patients notice some improvement within the first week - reduced pain, better sleep, easier movement. Significant functional improvements usually occur by weeks 2-4. For acute injuries, expect 3-6 weeks total treatment. Chronic conditions take 8-20 weeks depending on complexity. Post-surgical recovery typically requires 8-16 weeks. Your recovery speed depends on how quickly you start treatment, your overall health, compliance with home exercises, and the severity of your condition. I'll give you realistic timelines based on your specific situation.
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What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring your insurance card, photo ID, complete medication list, and any recent imaging like X-rays or MRIs (actual films, not just reports). Wear loose, comfortable clothing - shorts for leg problems, tank top for shoulder issues, loose shirt for back/neck problems. Bring athletic shoes if you have foot or ankle problems. Come prepared to discuss when your pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily activities. Arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork.
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Do you offer same-day or urgent appointments?
Yes, I reserve time daily for urgent situations. Call as early as possible for same-day appointments. I see patients urgently for severe new injuries, significant worsening of existing problems, post-surgical complications, or pain that's preventing you from working or sleeping. Examples include sudden back "going out," new severe neck pain, knee giving out, or ankle sprains within 24-48 hours. During urgent visits, I focus on immediate pain relief and getting you moving safely while developing a follow-up plan.
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
Don't let pain control your life another day. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Rob Letizia and the team at Spectrum Therapeutics are here to help you get back to the activities you love.

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