What is a Weight Management Program?
The weight management exercise program (WMEP) is supported by principles of in-depth patient education, exercise instruction and teaching healthier lifestyle choices. Developed to give you the motivation, education and support necessary to implementing long-term changes to your health, our weight management services offer the following benefits:
- BMI and fat percentage measurements
- Development of a weight management exercise program that targets functional limitations associated with your existing health problems
- Ongoing support options for those who have completed their prescribed WMEP
- Monitored exercise intensities by a trained clinician
Obesity negatively affects your musculoskeletal system by placing excessive stress on all joints. Chronic low back pain, joint pain and other functional limitations are just a few health issues arising from being overweight. Addressing obesity from the onset of treatment is a necessary aspect of any comprehensive weight management physical therapy program.
Benefits
- Reduce joint stress, leading to decreased arthritic pain
- Improve circulation throughout your body to help minimize inflammation and pain
- Improve recovery outcomes of hip and knee replacements
- Improve control of diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea
- Decrease your risk of having a heart attack or stroke
- Increase your energy level while improving your self-esteem and confidence
Common Diagnoses
- Ambulation dysfunction, difficulty walking
- Osteoarthritis
- Generalized weakness
- Low back pain
*Services are not available at all locations. Call or click the location page near you for that center’s services.
What to Expect
Every patient has a unique health history, diagnosis and personal goals. When you come for your first appointment, we will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
We work with most major insurance providers and do our best to help keep the paperwork pain-free. If you’d like to confirm your insurance coverage, please let us know and we can verify when you schedule. If your insurance provider requires a co-pay, we will ask for this payment at each visit. We accept payments by cash, check or credit card.
When to Arrive
On average, a patient’s first visit lasts about an hour. We typically ask patients to arrive 15 minutes early to sign-in, complete paperwork and/or change clothes.
What to Bring
On your first visit, you’ll need to bring your physician referral or prescription (if needed), your insurance card, your primary registration forms, your ID or driver’s license and your co-payment (as applicable). If desired, you may bring a change of clothing.
How it Works
During your first visit, your physical therapist will do an initial evaluation and discuss your plan of care. The therapist uses this information to set goals for your continued treatment. Physical therapy goals may include improved movement, strength, endurance and flexibility, as well as decreased pain. Your subsequent visits will focus on treatment that is based on your diagnosis and individualized goals.