Iowa State’s Thielen Student Health Center has been making big changes inside its walls. Physical therapy services are now offered on the second floor of the health center.

“The new location for physical therapy means that it will be more convenient for students to follow through on the recommendations that include physical therapy as part of their treatment plan to recover from an injury or a surgery,” said Michelle Hendricks, director of the health center. “When the physician or nurse practitioner recommends physical therapy, the student can make the appointment before they leave the building.” 

Students will continue to use state-of-the-art equipment as they have previously.

“The physical therapy suite contains all of the same therapeutic modalities and equipment that the previous site had,” Hendricks said. “Our physical therapists make use of a broad range of therapeutic interventions and approaches that best match the needs of the individual to help them reach their rehabilitation and recovery goals.” 

Luke Bruck, marketing and web design graduate assistant for the health center, shows equal excitement about the new physical therapy addition to Thielen.

Bruck cited “convenience, state-of-the-art equipment, and ease of pay” as important aspects of the changes.

“Charges for the [physical therapy] services will be sent to student U-bills,” according to Bruck. Students will still need to check with their personal insurance for specific payment details, as they would have before the change.

Hendricks looks forward to a prosperous future with the new addition.

“When the new State Gym Rec Center opens, it will be a great opportunity to partner with the Rec Services staff, including their personal trainer services and other programs,” Hendricks said.