Frequently Asked Questions
What is pelvic floor physical therapy?
A pelvic physical therapist is trained in orthopedic physical therapy, and also has additional training to assess and treat the structures of the pelvis. This can include treating the bony pelvis, the abdomen, as well as the muscles, organs, and fascia inside the pelvis. This is to address pelvic health including bladder and bowels, as well as adjacent symptoms such as back and hip pain. We also consider how the pelvis contributes to overall strength, stability and function of your body.
What should I expect at my visit?
The Initial evaluation will be 75-90 minutes total, with time to review your history and present complaints; an assessment of posture, mobility, strength, coordination, and balance as indicated; and a discussion about your goals, and recommended treatment plan. Follow up visits are 60 minutes, and may include manual (hands-on) techniques for the pelvis, abdomen, hips, spine; an individualized home exercise program; education in anatomy/physiology, pain and symptom management, and/or ergonomics or body mechanics.
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Pelvic physical therapy may include an internal (intra-vaginal or intra-rectal) assessment and treatment, when indicated by presentation and symptoms, and only with your full consent and agreement. A typical pelvic floor exam involves inserting one finger vaginally or rectally to assess the overall strength, coordination, and relaxation ability of the muscles.
Do I need to have an internal examination?
An internal examination will only be performed when you feel fully ready. An internal examination allows the pelvic physical therapist to fully assess and treat the pelvic floor muscles, organs and other structures, which is often key to relieving pain and other symptoms. Further in-person explanation and discussion will take place prior to moving forward with any internal examination or treatment techniques. External treatment techniques can always be utilized first or exclusively, based on your comfort and preference.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
Arizona is a direct access state for physical therapy, meaning you do not need a referral from your doctor to be seen for PT. However, if you are currently pregnant, we do request a referral from your OBGYN or midwife prior to being evaluated.
How often/how many visits will I need to be seen?
This depends on your individual situation. Ideally visits are scheduled 1x a week initially, and then may decrease in frequency once you see initial results. We will work with you to find a schedule that fits your needs, your time and your budget.
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The goal is to see significant improvement in your symptoms within the first 4-6 visits. Sometimes this takes longer. Some factors that might influence your treatment plan include: how long you have been having symptoms, the severity of your symptoms, your commitment to a daily home program, and other factors we can discuss at your evaluation.
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Your physical therapist is dedicated to providing the education, treatment, home program, and recommendations to help you recover as quickly as possible. Your commitment to a consistent treatment plan and compliance with your home program is key in seeing results faster.
Do you take my insurance?
Embody Physical Therapy LLC is a private pay practice, we are not contracted with any insurance providers. This allows us to provide the highest quality of individualized care, and spend the full session 1-on-1 with you to get the most out of your appointment. This means you will pay in full for your service at the time of your appointment, and there are no hidden fees or surprise bills. At your request, we can provide you with documentation that you may submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement through out-of-network (OON) benefits. We can accept HSA cards.
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To find out if you have out-of-network insurance benefits, call your insurance provider and ask: If you have out-of-network coverage for physical therapy; if they cover your diagnosis; what is your out-of-network deductible, and how much have you met to date; do they require referral or prior authorization; and do they cover telehealth services.