There are over 258,000 physical therapists across the US. In fact, the industry is growing much faster than others. Between 2019 and 2029, the industry could grow by 19%.
With the industry growing, it’s sometimes difficult to choose one physical therapy center.
Here are nine tips that can help you find the best sports rehab center in the greater Atlanta area. With these tips, you’ll have an easier time vetting the rehab facility options on your list. Then, you can start healing while feeling confident about your choice.
Don’t rush to choose the first sports rehab program you find online. Instead, plan a more efficient search using these simple tips today.
1. Your Needs
First, take a moment to consider the type of sports rehab programs that can benefit your specific situation. Why do you need treatment? What kind of pain are you in?
For example, you might want to look for a sports rehab center if you suffered from:
- Fractures
- Spinal cord injury
- Brain injury
- Stroke
Maybe you need to rehabilitate after a major procedure, such as orthopedic surgery, organ transplant, or a cardiac event.
Once you determine the type of sports rehab programs you need, make a list of your goals. Setting your goals can help you find a facility capable of accomplishing those goals.
Establish goals that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-Driven, Timely.
As you speak with a professional at each physical therapy center on your list, ask them how they’ll help accomplish your goals. The facility should help you develop a treatment plan based on your distinct needs.
For example, they might help you develop a plan if you’re recovering from injuries after a sporting accident. Ask them how long treatment will take. Consider how often you’ll have to arrive for treatment, too.
If the sports rehab center won’t work with you to create a customized treatment plan, scratch them off your list.
Your needs and physical situation are unique. The facility should treat you like a person, not another number or body.
2. Your Schedule
Ask each sports rehab center if they offer 24-hour care. If not, how often is therapy available?
You’ll need to determine how often you should arrive for treatment. For example, some facilities require patients to arrive for three hours of therapy every day. You might have to visit the facility five days a week.
Make sure the program suits your schedule. Otherwise, you might struggle to receive the treatment you need.
Look for a facility that can accommodate your schedule.
3. The Staff
Make sure to ask about the staff when reviewing the different sports rehab programs available.
Will you work with the same team every time you arrive for treatment? Ask which members of the team have advanced degrees. Consider asking if they’re board-certified, too.
Finding a qualified team will give you peace of mind in their abilities to help you heal. For example, you might want to find registered nurses certified in rehabilitation nursing. Perhaps they have experience offering acute care.
Make sure you understand who will help you throughout your treatment.
4. References and Reviews
Consider the type of injury you’re healing from. Then, ask the facility if they’ve worked with a patient who healed from a similar injury. Ask if you can speak with that patient.
Gathering references and reviews can help you learn more about the facility from someone who was in your shoes. Ask the patient about the sports rehab programs they completed. Were they satisfied with the care they received?
You can also check online for patient reviews. Explore the facility’s BBB and Google My Business listings.
Make sure the positive comments far outweigh the negative. If there are more than a handful of negative reviews, look elsewhere.
5. Individual Treatment
Make sure to ask if you’ll receive treatment one-on-one or in a group. Some patients prefer individual appointments. You can ensure the therapist tailors your treatment plan to your unique needs.
Other patients prefer a group atmosphere. Healing from injuries among a group can provide you with emotional support and encouragement. You might enjoy the team camaraderie.
Consider asking how many patients the facility currently helps, too. The average clinic sees between 101 and 200 patients a week. If they’re overbooked, you might struggle to receive the care you need.
6. Supplemental Services
When developing your sports rehabilitation program, make sure to ask about the supplemental services that are available. Some rehab facility options might include:
- Exercise and balance/coordination programs
- Advice on adapting your home with modifications
- Relaxation techniques
- Music and art therapy
- Horticulture
- Pet therapy or service-dog assistance
These programs might facilitate additional healing.
7. Family Participation
As you review the rehab facility options on your list, consider asking if family participation is encouraged. Working with family members could maximize your ability to recover.
Make sure you understand how family members can get involved in your treatment plan.
8. Outpatient Services
Ask each sports rehab center if they offer physician and therapy services on an outpatient basis, too. You might benefit from continuing care after your initial treatment.
9. Medical Records
You might want to consider finding a sports rehabilitation center that works directly with your referring physician. Ask the rehab center if they can easily access your:
- Medical history
- Treatment status
- Radiology and laboratory results
- Medications list
Some facilities offer access to everything you need over an app or website.
Before choosing a facility, make sure they can answer any non-medical questions you have, too. For example, you might need to review their billing, insurance, and at-home therapy options.
Some patients can work with social workers or case managers to coordinate at-home services. They can also help you verify your insurance benefits. Make sure you know which member of the staff you’ll work with moving forward.
Start Healing: 9 Tips for Choosing the Best Sports Rehab Center in Atlanta
Remember, you don’t have to choose the first sports rehab center you find online. Instead, use these nine tips to vet your rehab facility options. Using these tips can help you find the best rehab center in the greater Atlanta area.
Then, you can start recovering from injuries and get back to your day-to-day life.
Ready to start healing? We’re here to help.
Explore our locations today to make your first appointment.