Physical Therapy
Orthopedic Services
Request Appointment
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Get back to the activities you love, with expert care close to home.
Our licensed physical therapists work hand-in-hand with Carolina Regional Orthopaedics’ board-certified orthopedic surgeons and physician assistants to deliver seamless, personalized rehabilitation. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or healing from a sports injury, we create a plan tailored to your goals.
Our Integrated Approach
At Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, physical therapy is never one-size-fits-all. Our Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Team partners closely with your orthopedic provider to ensure your treatment plan supports surgical or non-surgical care, accelerates healing, and helps prevent future issues.
We believe in one-on-one attention, clear communication, and evidence-based techniques that address both your physical and functional goals. From your first evaluation through your final visit, we focus on getting you moving comfortably and confidently again.
Conditions We Treat
We specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation while also supporting a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological needs. Common conditions include:
- Strains and sprains — Fast, effective care to reduce pain and restore strength and mobility.
- Pre-operative and post-operative orthopedic rehabilitation — Structured programs before and after joint replacement, rotator cuff repair, ACL reconstruction, and other procedures to optimize outcomes.
- Back and neck pain — Including disc issues, sciatica, and postural dysfunction.
- Sports injuries — Return-to-sport programs for athletes of all levels.
- Neurological conditions affecting movement and balance.
- Osteoporosis — Safe, bone-health-focused exercise and fall-prevention strategies.
- Work-related injuries and trauma — Functional rehabilitation to support safe return to work and daily life.
- Arthritic pain and chronic conditions — Joint protection techniques and strength-building programs.
We also coordinate care for patients managing obesity-related joint stress and other complex musculoskeletal challenges.
Specialized Services & Treatments
Our therapists use a comprehensive toolbox of proven techniques, including:
- Therapeutic Exercises & Home Exercise Programs — Customized plans you can continue at home for lasting results.
- Joint Mobilization & Spinal Rehab — Hands-on techniques to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
- Gait Training — Improve walking mechanics and balance after injury or surgery.
- Sports Medicine Rehabilitation — Sport-specific training to safely return to activity.
- ASTYM Therapy — Advanced soft tissue treatment that stimulates healing and reduces scar tissue.
- Electrical Stimulation & Iontophoresis — Targeted pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication delivery.
- Heat/Cold Therapy & Ergonomic Assessments — Immediate relief and long-term prevention strategies.
- Back Safety Education — Practical training to protect your spine at work and home.
Every treatment is chosen based on your specific needs and progress.
What to Expect During Your Physical Therapy Journey
- Comprehensive Evaluation — We listen to your history, assess movement, strength, and function, and set clear, measurable goals together.
- Personalized Treatment Plan — Developed in coordination with your orthopedic provider when appropriate.
- Hands-On Care + Active Exercises — A balanced mix of manual therapy and active rehabilitation.
- Ongoing Progress Tracking — Regular check-ins so we can adjust your program as you improve.
- Home Program & Education — Tools and knowledge to maintain gains long-term.
Most patients attend 1–3 sessions per week, with frequency tailored to your condition and goals.
Convenient Access & Same-Day Care
Need help quickly? We offer same-day orthopedic urgent care appointments at our Rocky Mount clinic for acute injuries that can help you avoid long ER or immediate care waits. (Note: Same-day urgent care is not a substitute for true emergencies. Call 911 or go to the nearest ER if needed.)
Call (252) 443-0400 now to speak with our team or request a same-day PT evaluation. For non-urgent needs, use our convenient online appointment request form — available 24/7.
We offer flexible scheduling to fit your life and are proud to serve patients from Rocky Mount, Tarboro, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina communities.
Why Patients Choose Carolina Regional Orthopaedics Physical Therapy
- Close collaboration with our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and PAs for truly integrated care.
- Experienced, licensed therapists focused on orthopedic and sports rehabilitation.
- Convenient locations in Rocky Mount and Tarboro.
- Emphasis on one-on-one care and measurable outcomes.
- Commitment to helping you achieve a more active, pain-free life.
Request an Appointment Online
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, PA allows you to easily schedule an appointment online 24 hours a day, so you can continue your day with little disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Do I need a referral from my doctor to start physical therapy in North Carolina?
No referral is required in most cases. North Carolina allows direct access to physical therapy, so you can schedule an evaluation and begin treatment with one of our licensed therapists without first seeing a physician. If your condition is outside our scope or you need additional medical evaluation, we’ll coordinate that for you right away.
How is physical therapy at Carolina Regional Orthopaedics different from other clinics in the area?
Our therapists work side-by-side with board-certified orthopedic surgeons and physician assistants. This close collaboration means your rehab plan is informed by the latest surgical or non-surgical findings, imaging results, and your specific orthopedic diagnosis. You get truly coordinated care instead of fragmented treatment.
When can I start physical therapy after surgery?
Timing depends on the procedure and your surgeon’s protocol, but many patients begin gentle rehabilitation within a few days to a couple of weeks after surgery. We coordinate directly with your orthopedic provider to follow the exact post-operative timeline that protects your repair while safely progressing your strength and mobility.
What is ASTYM Therapy and how can it help me?
ASTYM is an advanced, evidence-based soft tissue treatment that uses specialized instruments to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and break down scar tissue or adhesions. It’s especially effective for chronic tendon issues, post-surgical stiffness, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and other stubborn soft tissue problems that haven’t fully responded to traditional therapy.
Can I get same-day physical therapy if I have a recent injury?
Yes. We offer same-day orthopedic urgent care evaluations and physical therapy appointments at our Rocky Mount location. This is ideal for acute sprains, strains, or flare-ups when you don’t want to wait days or sit in an ER. (Same-day care is not a substitute for true medical emergencies — call 911 if needed.)
Will physical therapy hurt?
Some discomfort or muscle fatigue is normal as we work to restore motion and strength, but our therapists are skilled at adjusting techniques, so treatment stays within your tolerance. We regularly check in with you and modify the plan if anything feels too intense. Many patients feel relief and improved movement even during the first few visits.
How long are sessions and how many visits will I need?
Most sessions last 45–60 minutes. The total number of visits varies widely depending on your condition, goals, and how quickly you progress. Acute injuries may resolve in 4–8 visits, while post-surgical rehab or chronic conditions often require a longer, more structured program. We track objective progress at every visit and adjust the plan accordingly.
What should I wear and bring to my first physical therapy appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement and access to the area being treated (shorts for knee/hip/ankle issues, tank top for shoulder/neck). Bring your insurance card, photo ID, a list of current medications, and any relevant imaging reports or surgical notes. If you have a brace, orthotics, or assistive device, please bring those as well.
Do you coordinate directly with my orthopedic surgeon or PA?
Absolutely. Because we’re part of the same practice, communication is seamless. Your therapist can review operative reports, discuss findings with your surgeon, and align your rehab goals with your overall orthopedic treatment plan. This integrated approach often leads to better outcomes and fewer setbacks.
What if my pain or condition worsens between visits?
Contact us right away. We can often adjust your home program, bring you in sooner, or coordinate with your orthopedic provider for additional support. For acute issues, same-day appointments are frequently available at our Rocky Mount clinic.
Our Providers
At Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, PA, all of our providers are Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons or
Bernard P. Kemker, MD
Glenn E. MacNichol, MD
Robert C. Martin, DO
Mark N. Perlmutter, MS, MD
Morgan M. Batchelor, PA-C
VanTreia M. Gross, PA-C
Paul Kelley, PA-C
William J. Mayo, PA-C
Our Locations
Orthopedics Rocky Mount
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, PA
Mon-Thurs
Address:
110 Patrick Ct, Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Hours:
Monday- Thursday: 8 AM - 6 PM
Closed
Friday - Sunday
Phone: 252-443-0400
Fax: 252-443-0572
Pain Management Clinic Tarboro
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics, PA
Tuesdays Only
Address:
101 Clinic Dr. Ste. 7A, Tarboro, NC 27886
Hours:
Tuesday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Closed:
Sunday - Monday, Wednesday - Saturday
Phone: 252-443-0400
Fax: 252-443-0572