Pilates
How long will it take for me to see results?
‘In 10 sessions you will feel a difference; in 20 sessions you will see a difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body.’ Joseph Pilates made this now-famous ‘Pilates promise’ after repeatedly witnessing the dramatic results his own clients experienced when working with him consistently. Although daily Pilates may not be practical for most people, you can still achieve breakthrough results by establishing consistency in your workouts. From your very first private session, our instructors will give you detailed instruction that facilitates your safe transition from private sessions to more affordable duets; making more frequent workouts (ideally two to three times a week) possible. Independent workouts can be an end goal. By working with you to determine the right balance of sessions that will accommodate your goals, budget and lifestyle, re:fit makes it possible for clients to quickly feel the difference, gradually see the difference, and eventually experience ‘a whole new body’ and reap the promise of Pilates.
What can I expect during my first private session?
Most new clients can expect a session beginning on the Mat or Reformer, and then transitioning to one or more of the other Pilates apparatus, such as the High Chair or Cadillac. Sessions may finish with standing wall exercises. Sessions generally last 50 to 55 minutes.
How should I dress?
You should wear comfortable clothing with no zippers. Be sure to have socks. Please leave jewelry and sharp barrettes at home.
What if I don’t feel like I’m doing it ‘right’?
Pilates is not about performance- how high, how big and how beautiful. It is about executing the exercises with mindful intent to improve function and strength. Like any new practice, Pilates takes a number of sessions to ‘get it,’ though you will immediately reap benefits simply by moving through the exercises. Your range of motion and ability to approach the ideal versions of the exercises will improve over time. The cues your instructor gives you and the equipment design itself are both to assist you in finding the correct muscles.
How will Pilates address my individual fitness needs and goals?
We are all subject to gravitational forces on our spinal columns. When the muscles that support our spines are weak or tight, we experience this stress as stiffness, soreness and pain. Pilates addresses the needs of all bodies through a group of core-strengthening exercises that support the spine and pelvis. We will design a series specially-chosen exercises that address your individual needs.
Where do I begin with Pilates?
Your introduction to Pilates typically begins with a series of two private Introductory Package sessions. Once completed, you will most likely continue by taking private sessions until you’ve reached a level that will allow you to safely participate in a duet session. On occasion, clients begin with duet sessions.
In duet sessions there are two clients with one instructor. You go further into the basics of the technique and the principles of Pilates, as well as learn specific exercises to address your individual needs.
Are your instructors certified?
Yes.to the top
What do I bring to my first visit?:
Your completed re:fit forms (click here to download PT Forms).
Your prescription for physical therapy.
Your insurance card.
What happens during my first visit?
Your first visit is an initial evaluation by the physical therapist. You will discuss your medical history (including medications, tests and procedures), your current problems/complaints, the intensity of the pain you are experiencing and what aggravates and what eases the problem, how the problem(s) impact your daily activities (your functional limitations), and your goals for your physical therapy course of treatment. Some treatment does occur on the first session.
The physical evaluation may include some of the following:
Palpation- touching around the area of the pain/problem. This is done to check for the presence of tenderness, swelling, soft tissue integrity, tissue temperature, inflammation, etc.
Range of Motion (ROM) - the therapist may check for strength and the quality of the muscle contraction. This is also part of a neurological screening.
Neurological Screening- the therapist may check to see how the nerves are communicating with the muscles, sensing touch, pain, vibration, or temperature. Reflexes may be assessed as well.
Special Tests- the therapist may perform special tests to confirm/rule out the presence of additional problems.
Posture Assessment- the position of joints relative to ideal and each other may be assessed.
The therapist will then formulate a treatment plan. This includes how many times you should see the therapist per week, how many weeks you will need therapy, home programs, patient education, short-term/long-term goals, and what you can expect after discharge from therapy.
How should I dress?
You should wear comfortable clothing. Preferably, pants that have minimal seams and also zippers.
How long will each treatment last?
Each treatment session typically last approximately 55 minutes. Occasionally, patients come in for longer sessions, lasting two or three hours. This is determined by the intensity of the symptoms, the objective findings, and the patient goals.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your impairments, your past medical history, and your goals. You will be re-evaluated on a monthly basis, working in tandem with your doctor.
Why is physical therapy a good choice?
Physical therapy treats not only pain but also its source. Physical therapists are experts at treating movement and neuro-musculoskeletal disorders. Pain often accompanies a movement disorder, which physical therapists can help correct.
What do physical therapists do?
The cornerstones of physical therapy treatment are therapeutic exercise and functional training. In addition to "hands-on" care, physical therapists also educate patients to take care of themselves and to perform certain exercises on their own. Physical therapists use methods such as ultrasound (which uses high frequency waves to produce heat), hot packs, and ice.
It's important to know that physical therapy can only be provided by qualified physical therapists or by physical therapist assistants, who must complete a 2-year education program and who work only under the supervision of physical therapists.
Why are people referred to physical therapy?
You and others may be referred to physical therapy because of a movement dysfunction associated with pain. Your difficulty with moving part(s) of your body (like bending at the low back or difficulty sleeping on your shoulder, etc.) likely results in limitations with your daily activities. Physical therapy addresses these movement dysfunctions to restore your body's ability to move in a normal manner.
Who pays for the treatment?
In most cases, health insurance will cover your treatment. We are a member of BC/BS PPO. Otherwise, we are out of network providers. Coverage varies, but usually insurance will cover a percentage of the visit after deductibles are reached. If you have coverage from BC/BS, you will be treated by Gretchen Schmalz, PT. Click here for the correct paperwork.
Under IL law, a diagnosis from a physician is required within a month of the initial evaluation. Many insurance companies require a prescription for physical therapy for benefits to be paid.
At this time, we are not Medicare certified. This means Medicare or Medicare Supplements do not cover treatment at re:fit.
What types of physical therapy Specialties are offered at re:fit?
Orthopedic Physical Therapy - Care for post-surgical patients, arthritis, tendinitis/tendinosus, fracture rehabilitation, muscle sprains and strains, neck and back pain, hip and knee problems, shoulder, elbow, and wrist conditions.
Manual Therapy - Manual therapy describes a variety of hands-on treatment techniques that are applied to movement dysfunctions. Most physical therapists incorporate manual therapy techniques as a part of a complete treatment plan. IMT, Integrative Manual Therapy, uses these techniques in addition to addressing the psycho/social/emotional and thought energies that cause pain and dysfunction.
Sports Rehabilitation – Helps with retraining the athlete utilizing running, throwing, jumping, and sport-specific programs. A therapist with the Sports Certified Specialist (SCS) title has passed a board certified test.
Fitness and Wellness - If you need an exercise program, have trouble with your weight, are concerned about osteoporosis, have an issue with diabetes, or you would like to learn how to prevent falls, physical therapists can help.
Lymphedema Rehabilitation - The lymph system helps filter and drain fluid from our arms and legs. When this drainage system is damaged, Lymphedema is the painful swelling that can result. Special positioning, massage and bandaging techniques are utilized by the specialist. We are one of two providers in Illinois that have the vacuodermie and pressurotherapy machines to assist in lymphedema reduction.
What happens if my pain or problem returns?
Although we address the cause of your pain, not just the symptoms, flare ups can happen. If you have a flare up (exacerbation), give us a call. We may suggest you come back to see us, return to your doctor, or simply modify your daily activities or exercise routine.
Can I go directly to my physical therapist?
Illinois allows patients to go directly to physical therapists. In most cases, if you are not making significant improvement within 30 days, the therapist will refer you to or back to your physician.
How does the billing process work at re:fit?
Payment is due at the time of service.
You will receive an invoice to mail to your insurance company for reimbursement.
The insurance company will generate an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and send
it to you with a reimbursement check.
It is important to understand that there are many small steps in the process (beyond those outlined above). Exceptions are common.
What will I have to do after physical therapy?
Some patients will need to continue with home exercises, and some may choose to continue with a gym exercise program. Others will complete their rehabilitation and return to normal daily activity. It is important that you communicate your goals to your therapist, so she can develop a custom program for you.
Is my therapist licensed?
Physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are licensed by their respective states.to the top
What is the difference between Pilates and Gyrotonic®?
Pilates and Gyrotonic® are each complete systems of mind-body movement. Both use equipment and mat or stool exercises, however Gyrotonic® is three-dimensional and circular. With origins from swimming, dance, tai chi and yoga, it too strengthens the body's core muscles from the inside out. Gyrotonic® develops increased functional strength and flexibility, while developing coordination, neuromuscular control, and a re-shaping of the entire body.
Can you do this if you are totally out of shape?
Absolutely! We are skilled at making the basics accessible to everyone and providing the right level of challenge to each of our clients. Gyrotonic® is especially effective for those with scoliosis.
How often should I do this type of exercise?
We recommend 2-3 work-outs per week. However, that could mean coming in to the studio twice a week and then doing a home-work program once a week on your own. Each person's needs are different. What is important is that you participate in the activity a few times per week so your body has a chance to really assimilate the new information you are giving it. Doing anything only once a week gives your body six days to completely forget what is has just begun to learn and leads to a slow rate of progress and therefore more tendency to not stick with it.
Are your teachers certified?
Yes. to the top
Who Benefits from the Feldenkrais™ Method?
Anyone can benefit from the Method. Feldenkrais™ is beneficial for those experiencing chronic or acute pain, as well as for healthy individuals who wish to improve physical performance. It is helpful in dealing with central nervous system conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and stroke. Many Seniors enjoy using it to retain or regain their ability to move without strain or discomfort.
Through lessons in this method you can enjoy greater ease of movement, an increased sense of vitality, and feelings of peaceful relaxation. After a session you often feel taller and lighter, breathe more freely and find that your discomforts have eased. You experience relaxation, and feel more centered and balanced.
How Does the Feldenkrais™ Method Differ from Massage and Chiropractic?
Feldenkrais™ is very different. In massage, the practitioner is working directly with the muscles, in chiropractic, with the bones. The Feldenkrais™ Method works with your ability to regulate and coordinate your movement; which means working with the nervous system. This is referred to as a functional approach wherein you can improve your use of your body, with whatever structural considerations/ limitations are present by exploring non-habitual patterns of movement.
Can you give me some background on who developed this method and how it came about?
Moshe Feldenkrais™ became one of the first Europeans to earn a Black Belt in Judo (1936) and to introduce Judo in the West through his teaching and books on the subject. He also studied intensively in psychology, neurophysiology, and other health-related disciplines. After suffering crippling knee injuries, Feldenkrais™ merged his acquired knowledge with his deep curiosity about biology, perinatal development, cybernetics, linguistics, and systems theory. He taught himself to walk again and in the process developed an extraordinary system—the Feldenkrais™ Method--for accessing the power of the central nervous system to improve human functioning.to the top
What is Integrative Manual Therapy?
IMT incorporates aspects of many different osteopathic and holistic hands-on therapies. Using extremely gentle, subtle pressures, and working with various rhythms of the body, IMT restores structural integrity of tissues, organs, muscles, vessels, and bone. This sets your body up for optimal functional performance.
One way to understand IMT is to imagine a piano and a musician. Even the best pianist won’t sound her best on a poorly tuned piano, while a terrible musician could sound passable on a great instrument. IMT is the piano tuner: treatment restores the full functional potential of your body.
IMT applies this approach to every body system: muscular, immune, lymphatic, digestive, cardiovascular, renal, neurological, etc. There are thousands of manual techniques to address not only biomechanics, but also a great range of dysfunction and discomfort.
Often people ask: how can you feel theses different rhythms? It is not unlike the connoisseur who can taste a glass of wine and tell you what kind of grapes it was made from, where the grapes were grown, the bottler and the year. An IMT therapist has trained his or her perceptual abilities to gain a tremendous amount of information simply by palpating the body.
IMT has been developed by Sharon Giammatteo, PhD, IMTC over the past thirty years.
What do I need to bring to my first visit?
Completed Re:fit forms (click here to download PT Forms).
Prescription for physical therapy.
Insurance card.
What happens during my first visit?
Your first visit is an initial evaluation by the physical therapist. You will discuss your medical history (medications, tests and procedures you have had recently), your current problems/complaints, the intensity of the pain you are experiencing and what aggravates and what eases the problem, your functional limitations (how the problems impact your daily activities), and most importantly, your treatment goals.
As time allows, some treatment occurs in the first session. This includes gentle mobility testing, as well as assessing various rhythms in tissues specific to your treatment goals. We will differentiate the primary dysfunction leading to the complaint: biomechanics, physiology, or emotional holdings. We will also locate the primary system or area involved in creating the symptoms—for example, pain in the knee could originate in the hip and pelvis, and treatment would focus there. There are many specialized diagnostics and techniques to address those diagnostics.
During treatment, you will lie comfortably on a massage table. Most of the time, the physical therapist uses less than 5 grams of pressure…go ahead and fall asleep!
How many sessions will I need?
It is important to come in with goals. Initially, your goal may be to eliminate pain. As treatment continues, many patients find themselves asking, "how healthy can I get?" The goal may change from rolling over in bed to walking without pain, to riding a bicycle (true story!). There is no easy answer to the question “how long.” Desire and imagination determine when you will feel you have met all your goals.
How often should I come for IMT treatment?
This is dependent on your time-line, goals, and how acute your symptoms are. It takes a certain number of hours to get through a certain amount of treatment, and all sessions are at least an hour. Some clients prefer multiple hours at once. You may need one visit or you may need months of treatment. It depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your impairments, your past medical history, and your goals. You will be re-evaluated on a monthly basis and when you see your doctor, we will provide you with a progress report with our recommendations.
Can my pain or problem return?
IMT addresses the cause of your pain, not just the symptoms. Nevertheless, flare-ups can happen. Sometimes this is due to an acute new injury or event. But if it seems spontaneous, realize that in the IMT model a “flare-up” is often the body’s way of presenting another layer of suppressed dysfunction as you heal with treatment. If this occurs, give us a call. We help you determine whether it is best for you to come see us, return to your doctor, modify your daily activities or exercise routine, or some combination of all of these.
How does billing work at Re:fit?
Payment is due at the time of service.
You will receive an invoice to mail to your insurance company for reimbursement.
The insurance company will generate an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and send
it to you with a reimbursement check.
Can you explain more about this insurance coverage business?
In most cases, health insurance will cover the sessions under your physical therapy benefits because the IMT practitioners are physical therapists. We are out of network providers. Coverage varies, but usually insurance will cover a percentage of the visit after deductibles are reached.
Under IL law, a diagnosis from a physician is required within a month of the initial evaluation. Many insurance companies require a prescription for physical therapy for benefits to be paid. After your first visit, your doctor will receive an initial evaluation to sign and return. This will become an active prescription.
At this time, we are not Medicare certified. This means Medicare or Medicare Supplements do not cover treatment at Re:fit. to the top
