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YOU ASK, I TELL

WHAT IS PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL THERAPY

Pelvic health physical therapy is a specialty that focuses on the dysfunctions in the pelvic region of the body. This includes conditions of the abdomen, back, pelvis, hips and thighs. However, our body is a tight knit network, interconnected with bones, muscles and various soft tissues. Thus a full body assessment of alignment, movement, strength and flexibility will always be considered. 

 

DO I NEED A REFERRAL

New York State is a direct access state, which means you are able to have physical therapy treatment without a prescription or referral from a physician. 

 

Direct access in NY allows 10 treatment sessions of PT within 30 days. Please note however, if you are seeking reimbursement from your health insurance provider, they may require a prescription.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON THE EVALUATION

The evaluation begins with a conversation to obtain a patient's detailed medical history, reason for coming to therapy and specific goals the patient may have. Typical objective measurements  assessed include the patient's body alignment, various joint mobility and range of motion, flexibility, movement patterns, strength and other dysfunctions related to the patient's condition. For pelvic floor related conditions, a gentle internal examination (vaginal or rectal) will be performed to assess pelvic floor tension, strength and function. The session will end with a short treatment and a simple home program to begin. 

 

DOES EVERYON HAVE TO GET AN INTERNAL EVALUATION

For pelvic floor dysfunction, an internal vaginal and/or rectal examination is the gold standard; however, not every patient is required to participate in this part of the assessment.  I will make sure you are comfortable throughout your session and it is always the patient's choice as to participate in any part of the assessment/treatment. With this in mind, there are many other structures of the pelvic region that are assessed externally and these are also a large focus of the treatments. 

 

CAN I STILL COME TO MY APPOINTMENT DURING MY MENSTRUAL CYCLE

Yes. If your flow is light and you feel comfortable, internal pelvic floor work is still appropriate. If your flow is heavy and/or you feel uncomfortable, internal work is not necessary. There is always external work that can be focused on for that session. 

HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED TO TREAT MY ISSUE

The amount of treatments needed is very individualized. I can better answer this question after the evaluation. Typically a patient will benefit from having treatments on a weekly or biweekly basis. 

WILL YOU TEACH ME EXERCISES TO DO AT HOME

Yes. Every patient will be given a customized home program to include exercises, proper posture for your body and education on how to properly care for yourself. The goal is self empowerment and self efficacy. 

 

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations within 24 hr of your session are subject to a fee. Patients that miss a session without notice, are subject to a full session fee. 

HOW DO I FIND OUT IF INSURANCE WILL COVER MY TREATMENT

Please refer to the insurance benefits worksheet above when asking your insurance provider of your out of network benefits. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Spending Account (HSA) you may also be reimbursed through that provider. 

 

HOW DO I PAY FOR TREATMENTS

 

Payments are due at time of service. Cash, check, and credit cards cards are accepted. FSA and HSA cards are commonly accepted as well. Upon request, you'll receive an invoice to submit for reimbursement from your insurance provider.  

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