FAQ
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What makes Dirigo Physical Therapy & Performance different?
We provide true 1 on 1 care with a licensed physical therapist using evidence based treatment and modern sports science in Portland and Saco, Maine. Expect individualized plans, objective testing, and continuity with the same PT from eval to discharge.
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Do I need a referral to start physical therapy?
Usually no; Maine allows direct access to PT, though some insurance plans still require a referral. If your plan needs one, we will help coordinate it.
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Are you in network with insurance?
Yes, we are in network with most major insurers in Maine and we verify your benefits before you start. We accept HSA and FSA and also offer transparent cash pay options.
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What should I expect at my first visit?
For Physical Therapy, you will have a 40 minute 1 on 1 evaluation focused on your goals, movement testing, and a starter plan. You will leave with an initial home program and a clear roadmap for your care.
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Will I see the same therapist every visit?
Yes. Continuity is core to our model so your therapist progresses your plan each session and coordinates with your medical team as needed.
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How long will it take to feel better?
Timeframes vary by condition and goals, but we set measurable milestones and reassess regularly so you always know where you stand.
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Do you offer cash pay rates?
Yes. We provide transparent self pay options and you can use HSA or FSA for eligible services. We have bundles that help reduce the cost of care, making us one of the most affordable physical therapy options in the area.
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Do you partner with teams, schools, and employers?
Yes. We provide on site screenings, workshops, and customized athlete development or return to work programs across Greater Portland and Saco.
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Why does 1 on 1 care matter?
Dedicated time with your licensed PT allows precise load management, technique coaching, and rapid plan adjustments, which supports faster and safer results and return to your activities.
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What should I wear and bring?
Wear athletic clothing and footwear and bring your ID and insurance card. Post op patients should bring protocols and any assistive devices.
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How do I book an appointment?
Request online or call and we will verify benefits and quickly schedule your evaluation to start your road to recovery, fast.
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How do you measure progress?
We set short term goals for pain and function and long term goals for return to work, life, and sport, tracking strength, range, and functional tests to adjust your plan.
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How do you use sports science and technology?
We apply objective testing, movement screening, and data driven progressions with clear return to activity criteria rather than guesswork. These can include force plate tests, jump testing, and handheld dynamometer strength testing.
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What does evidence based care mean at Dirigo?
We use current research, clinical expertise, and your goals to guide treatment, with validated outcomes and periodic retesting to prove progress.
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Do you offer Strength and Conditioning or Performance Training?
Yes. We offer 1 on 1 and small group training to build strength, mobility, and resilience for return to sport, middle school and high school athletes. off season development, and active adults
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What is Running Analysis and Gait Retraining?
We assess training history, strength and mobility, and mechanics, then use targeted cues and drills to improve efficiency and reduce injury risk.
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Which conditions do you treat?
Most orthopedic and sports conditions: spine (low back/neck, disc, sciatica), shoulder and elbow (rotator cuff, impingement, frozen shoulder), hip and groin (FAI, labrum, arthritis), knee (ACL/MCL, meniscus, patellofemoral pain), foot and ankle (sprains, Achilles, plantar fasciitis), running injuries, and post operative rehab (rotator cuff, ACL, total knee/hip). We deliver 1 on 1, evidence based care guided by sports science—one reason many patients, athletes, and providers consider us a leading physical therapy choice in Portland and Saco, Maine.