Physical therapists offer a broad, practical approach because of the depth of our education and our ability to diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and movement-related conditions.

Physical therapy helps relieve pain, restore movement, and improve function so you can return to the activities you enjoy.

Because of our training and role in the healthcare system, we specialize in non-surgical care of the body and functional mobility. In many cases, physical therapy can help people avoid surgery or reduce reliance on medications.

If pain is limiting your function, or if you are recovering from an injury, surgery, illness, or chronic condition, physical therapy can help.

We also teach practical strategies and exercises to help you manage symptoms, improve strength and flexibility, and reach the highest level of function possible. We focus on the areas that are specific to your lifestyle and goals.

Many healthcare practitioners may be involved in your wellness, and we are always happy to collaborate with others on your care. Working together creates the most comprehensive and supportive healing experience.

At Front Porch Physical Therapy, we combine skilled diagnosis with individualized care, always centered on your personal goals and well-being.

A Physical Therapist is a highly educated, doctoral-level, licensed movement specialist.

PTs are trained to diagnose and treat problems involving muscles, joints, nerves, the spine, and connective tissues.

We specialize in restoring movement, improving function, and helping you get back to the activities that matter most.

Our role is as primary care providers for musculoskeletal conditions—meaning you do not need a physician referral to start treatment in most cases.

At Front Porch Physical Therapy, we treat you like a person—not a time slot. Every visit is one-on-one for a full hour, including evaluation and treatment. This allows us to listen, assess, and adjust care based on your body’s response.

Rather than following a preset protocol, we create a plan tailored to your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. We focus on identifying the root cause of your problem and using the most effective treatment for you.

Our expertise includes:

• Spinal, joint, nerve, muscular, and fascial care (McKenzie Method – Cert. MDT)

• Medical Therapeutic Yoga and core training (PYT)

• Lymphedema therapy and chronic swelling management (CLT)

• Hand therapy and upper extremity conditions (CHT)

Our therapists also bring personal experience in athletics, movement arts, and daily living challenges, allowing us to meet you where you are.

By looking at the whole person, we help you take an active role in your health, restore function, and return to your activities with greater ease.

We participate with a limited number of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicare Supplement plans, Blue Medicare, Aetna, and some PPOs that allow out-of-network billing.

We guide you on questions to ask your insurance company to understand your coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

We also offer reasonably priced cash-based services for direct payment.

Our therapists provide strategies to help you work independently, often reducing the number of sessions needed to resolve your problem.

Yes. We perform a thorough musculoskeletal exam to pinpoint the root cause of your pain.

Pain in one area (like a hand, knee, or foot) may actually come from another location, such as the spine or nearby joints.

Nerve pain that radiates or is “referred” is common and can result from injury, poor posture, or repetitive movement.

We differentiate between joint, muscle, tendon, or postural issues and create a safe, effective plan tailored to your needs.

If we suspect a fracture or more serious condition, we coordinate with your physician to ensure the safest next steps.

In most cases, no. Exceptions include:

• Medicare patients (referral required for plan of care)

• Some insurance companies (check your plan for coverage requirements)

Direct pay patients do not need a referral. 

We are happy to answer questions and guide you to the right care.

After your evaluation, you will receive a personalized plan designed around your specific goals.

Treatment may include:

• Hands-on techniques to reduce pain and improve alignment

• Exercises to strengthen weak muscles and restore healthy movement

• A customized home exercise or self-management program

Throughout your care, you will be educated about your condition and learn strategies to prevent recurrence or manage ongoing symptoms. Every treatment plan is collaborative and tailored to you.

Your Physical Therapist will perform a thorough evaluation, including your history, tests, and measures to help make a musculoskeletal diagnosis.

A plan of care will be discussed and designed with your input, and we will begin some treatment during the first visit whenever possible.

Our goal is to help you start feeling better right away, while planning a comprehensive treatment approach for follow-up visits.

Early treatment can speed healing, prevent chronic problems, and reduce overall time and cost of care. Studies show seeing a Physical Therapist first saves time, discomfort, and expense for musculoskeletal issues.

If post-surgical, we follow your surgeon’s guidance but you may also start therapy independently or with a referral if needed for insurance coverage.

Yes. You always have the right to choose your physical therapy provider. Choosing Front Porch Physical Therapy means one-on-one attention with skilled licensed diagnosis and full-hour sessions every visit.

If we are not in-network, you may still have out-of-network benefits. Call your insurance company to ask:

• “Do I have out-of-network coverage for physical therapy?”

• “What is my co-pay or coverage percentage for an out-of-network provider?”

We are committed to helping you find care that best suits your needs.

It depends on your individual needs. Post-surgical or acute pain patients may start with 2 visits per week, while most people need once weekly or less.

Every plan is customized, based on your goals, abilities, and progress. There are no cookie-cutter protocols—everything is tailored to you.

Call our office at (828) 712-1340 to schedule.

Because of the one-on-one nature of our care, we may book in advance, but we strive to see you as soon as possible, especially if you are in pain or dealing with swelling.

If your concern is urgent, let us know when you call so we can accommodate you.

• A copy of your insurance card

• Intake paperwork (if received by email or mail)

• A list of medications

• Referral form (if applicable or if we have not yet received via fax)

• Any test results you’d like us to review

We make registration quick and easy so we can focus on your care.

Wear comfortable, flexible clothing and shoes. For lower extremity issues, consider shorts. We also provide gowns and shorts if needed. If participating in sports, bring athletic shoes.

Your therapy visit should be comfortable, so you can focus on getting better.