FAQs

-What is physical therapy and what can it be useful for?

Physical Therapy is an amazing modality that encompasses a variety of techniques to improve most any physical ailment. It uses a combination of joint and soft tissue mobility, strengthening, retraining and movement education to address physical conditions (acute or chronic), improve tissue quality and activation, and the mental and physical compensations that accompany pain, injury, or weakness. Techniques are always modifiable so they can be applied to different ages, backgrounds, and skill sets.

-What techniques or protocols does Ascend PT employ with their patients?

Every plan of care starts with an evaluation so we can understand what you are experiencing, the potential causes, and the best course of intervention. Every patient and his/her story is unique, so it is essential for us to understand your background and goals. The exact treatments used will vary depending on the issue, but can include manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, and training to return to previous activities.

-Do I need a referral for physical therapy in Colorado or is it a “direct access state”?

Colorado is a direct access state, which means the state does not require a doctor’s orders to receive PT. There are certain insurance plans, such as Medicare, that still need to have a referral on file. This should not hold up your treatment- we can assist you if you need help finding a doctor or getting an approval so that there is no delay.

-What is dry needling and are any of your PT’s certified in dry needling?

We have multiple therapists who are certified to dry needle. It is a modality that uses thin needles (similar to acupuncture) to release tight bands and trigger points in muscles. This can improve mobility, decrease pain, and improve the muscle’s ability to work. Most patients report relief and change the same day.

-Why choose Ascend Physical Therapy instead of other options in our community? How is Ascend pT unique?

All of our treatment sessions are one-to-one with the therapist and patient. We use this treatment model and time with you to better assess what is going on and provide appropriate correction through our undivided attention. Also, there are many facilities that use either manual therapy or strengthening but we have found that rehabilitation progresses faster and patients maintain gains better when these approaches are combined. Manual therapy is important to address the mechanics of the issue to make sure you don’t use the wrong movement pattern again. Strength and stability are essential to learn to use your new motion properly and improve efficiency. We will find the combination to meet your unique needs.

-How can I get on the schedule and how quickly can we work on my goals?

Appointments are easy to schedule and can be made by calling us at 719-623-0041, emailing us at info@ascend-physicaltherapy.com, or using the contact page of our website. Calling us is typically the fastest and most direct route, but we are happy to communicate through whatever method is most convenient. We typically have appointments available within the next couple days, depending if specific times are necessary. The first visit will include treatment, education, and/or exercises to help get you feeling better right away.

-What is Visceral physical therapy?

Visceral refers to our organs. Visceral manipulation is used to improve the mobility and function of our internal organs, which can address (including but not limited to): digestive and GI disorders, chronic pain, autonomic diagnosis, scar tissue from abdominal surgeries, whiplash, painful or altered menstrual cycles (and other women’s and men’s health issues), incontinence, hormone and neurotransmitter communication, and musculoskeletal pain caused by visceral tension.

-How can physical therapy help with women’s health?

This area of treatment is relevant for those of any age, whether related to injury, going through pregnancy, or weakness with higher level athletics such as Crossfit or running. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that can be strengthened and impacted by alignment just like other muscle groups. Training the pelvic floor can increase strength and activation as well as normalize muscle tension, which not only improves overall trunk stability, but can also decrease pain and improve incontinence. Manual mobilization can also be used to address other conditions such as irregular or painful cycles and to decrease the extent of prolapse.