Physical therapy is a health care specialty involved with evaluating, diagnosing, and treating disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system. The ultimate goal of physical therapy is to restore maximal functional independence to each individual patient. Physical therapy is provided by licensed health care professionals or physical therapist assistants working under a therapist’s supervision. Physical therapists evaluate, diagnose, and manage the physical therapy treatment plan, customizing it to each individual’s needs.

Physical therapists are experts in "the science of healing and the art of caring." Physical therapists help people with orthopaedic conditions such as low back pain or osteoarthritis; joint and soft tissue injuries such as sprains, fractures, and dislocations; neurologic conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or Parkinson's disease; connective tissue injuries such as burns or wounds; workplace injuries including repetitive stress disorders; and sports injuries.

Following is a list of some of the conditions we treat at CUMC Physical Therapy:

• Acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions
• Sports related injuries
• Spinal dysfunction
• Pre-operative and post-operative conditions
• Acute and chronic pain
• Work related injuries
• Neurological impairments including balance dysfunction

Specialized Services

Spine Program: A customized evaluation and treatment approach to address neck and back pain/dysfunction.
Bariatric and Medical Weight Loss Program: A collaborative approach to weight loss with the Bariatric Surgical Weight Loss program and physical therapy for a customized exercise regimen.
Running Program: A customized evaluation and treatment approach to address pain or injury for the runner.

Creighton University Medical Center provides Physical Therapy at two locations:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up a Physical Therapy appointment?

1. Contact your physician to obtain a prescription for physical therapy.
2. Call 449-4244 to set up your appointment at the CUMC hospital clinic of 449-5800 for an appointment at the Twin Creek clinic located in Bellevue.

What do I need to take to my first appointment?

1. Insurance card
2. Photo identification
3. Prescription from the doctor if the doctor has not faxed or e-mailed it to our facility

What will happen during my first appointment?

Once you have checked in with our front office staff, your therapist will call you back to a private area to begin the evaluation. Your therapist will begin the evaluation by asking you for information about your condition. When the therapist has gathered the information he/she needs, a physical examination will be performed to help the therapist better determine the source or cause of your symptoms. If applicable, the therapist will also take measurements of such things as range of motion or strength, which can be continually reassessed throughout the course of your treatment. This allows the therapist to track your progress.

Time permitting, treatment for your condition will also be administered as appropriate. If applicable, you will be taught some exercises that you can continue to perform at home to help manage your condition between your appointments.

What should I wear to my first appointment?

 Generally, it is a good idea to wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. If the condition for which you are being treated involves a specific region of the body, it is preferred that that area be as accessible as possible. Please also plan to wear appropriate footwear as well. Athletic shoes work the best for using much of the exercise equipment in our therapy gym.

We do have private areas in which you can change in and out of your therapy clothing if you are going to/coming from work, etc.