In short: See Lois, get better, do amazing things!
I was diagnosed with several injuries to my left arm/shoulder while living in Columbus, Ohio, including rotator tendinopathy, ulnar neuropathy, and a potential labral tear. After moving to VA, I was referred for PT by my orthopedic surgeon. I did some research, found Patane & Associates and chose them because of all the great reviews. I am so thankful for it! I hope no one ever needs PT, but if you do, I highly recommend Lois from Patane & Associates.
LOIS:
As I said, Lois is my physical therapist. I have been seeing her three times a week for 2 months, a long enough duration to come to a knowledgable conclusion regarding a health care provider. Bottom line, she's truly fantastic. There is no cognizable, identifiable reason as to why Lois hasn't had a review yet, so here is to correcting that and any misguided notions that she is anything less than a truly amazing physical therapist.
First, Lois is attentive and kind. She's also a very no nonsense, no fluff, "let's get to work so you start feeling better" type of physical therapist. I'm not always the most compliant patient, and she calls me out on it which I'm thankful for as it reduces my noncompliant tendencies. I've been through PT for these injuries in Ohio, and was babied through my exercises. Lois is always there to support me, she always ensures that I'm not in pain when exercising, but she also doesn't hesitate to push me, which I think has truly helped me succeed in my PT program.
Secondly, not only am I not compliant sometimes, but I'm also accident prone. I was in a car accident re-injuring my shoulder and neck only a month into my PT prescription. Without hesitation, question, or doubt, Lois calmed me AND my injuries down, reassured me that things would be alright, and adjusted my treatment and exercises so that I could get back on track toward recovery.
Thirdly, over 24+ PT sessions later with Lois, my outlook on whether I will need shoulder surgery in the short-term has changed dramatically. Prior to PT with her, I was hopeful that PT would work, but doubtful. Now, with Lois help and guidance, I have no doubt that I will be abstaining from surgery. My shoulder, while not perfect yet, is noticeably stronger, my range of motion vertically, horizontally, and rotationally, has improved dramatically. And, much to my mother's delight, my posture has improved as well. Bonus: from exercising diligently at least 3x p/week, I've lost weight and feel great!
Bottom line, I would recommend Lois to anyone who needs PT. She is to the point and direct, but honestly, I prefer it. I don't want to be coddled when it comes to my medical care. When it comes to addressing a serious medical issue, I want someone dependable and strong helping me down that path, and Lois is exactly that person.
THE OFFICE:
As with many PT offices, Steve and Lois, I haven't met Marge, see more than one patient at a time. But as another reviewer said, please do not let that deter you from seeing them. There is always someone on the floor (usually one of the PTs or Melissa) keeping a watchful eye on the patients, and who is always willing to help when needed. Not only are the staff great, but the other patients are also sweet, sociable people, who are happy to chat and provide encouragement. It's almost like you form a PT family/support group with the patients and staff.
The office is a large open floor plan with 3 tables in the main room, and then 3 separate treatment rooms. The equipment is up-to-date and is always kept neat and clean.
Jean is fantastic with billing! This is the first time with any PT office that I have not had a problem with my insurance, or copays, which is a stress reliever that allows me to focus on my recovery. read more