Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Yes, but due to the poor reimbursement and extensive time that has to be spent dealing with companies, we are limited to specific insurance companies. We are in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and Tricare Select. In addition, we can take Tricare Prime as long as we have an authorization from your PCM.

    If you have a Medicare Advantage policy, we can accept the insurance as long as your policy allows for out-of-network providers.

    Otherwise, we can take payment from you and print you a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.

  • It depends. Alabama is a direct access state, meaning you can receive physical therapy without a referral. So, if you are paying out of pocket, then you do not need one. However, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and Medicare insurances require a referral. A referral with Medicare can be provided by a physician, nurse practitioner, or a physician’s assistant. For BCBS additional sources are chiropractors and dentists. Give us a call and we can help.

  • We’ll discuss your concerns, symptoms, medical history, and goals. We’ll also do a physical exam, which typically includes an assessment of posture, pelvic alignment, functional movement, strength, and soft tissue and joint mobility. If appropriate and with your consent, an internal assessment of your pelvic floor will be performed. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns. Collectively, we'll develop a plan that you can sustainably incorporate into your daily life for long-term results.

  • Whatever makes you comfortable! Generally, clothing that’s easy to move around in works best. If you are coming to see me for hip or knee pain, loose-fitting shorts are best.

  • Everyone has a pelvis! Therefore, everyone can experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Although it is not discussed as frequently, men can develop pelvic floor dysfunction as a result of trauma, neurologic diseases, surgery, infections, or enlarged prostates.

  • Sure can! This is 100% patient choice. I can educate your partner on as much or as little as you request.

  • There are options. If we are working on an issue that requires internal work, we can reschedule the entire session, postpone the internal portion of the session (there are always plenty of things to work on), or we can proceed as usual if you are comfortable.


  • Yes. Vestibular physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for many causes of dizziness and vertigo. A trained vestibular physical therapist can evaluate how your inner ear, eyes, brain, and balance system are working together and create a treatment plan to reduce dizziness and improve balance.


  • Vertigo is often caused by a problem in the inner ear (vestibular system). One of the most common causes is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when small crystals in the inner ear move into the wrong canal. Other causes may include vestibular neuritis, vestibular migraines, concussion, or problems with balance processing in the brain.

  • Vestibular physical therapy may include repositioning maneuvers, balance exercises, gaze stabilization exercises, visual motion training, and gradual exposure to movements that trigger dizziness. These treatments help retrain the brain and inner ear to work together more effectively. Treatment is dependent on the underlying issue which will be thoroughly evaluated by your therapist.

  • BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is the most common cause of vertigo. It occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear move into one of the semicircular canals and send incorrect signals to the brain. Specialized repositioning maneuvers performed by a vestibular physical therapist can often resolve BPPV quickly.

  • You may benefit from vestibular therapy if you experience:
    • Vertigo or spinning sensations
    • Dizziness when turning your head
    • Feeling off balance when walking
    • Motion sensitivity
    • Dizziness when looking at screens or busy environments
    • Dizziness after a concussion
    • Frequent falls or fear of falling

  • Many patients begin noticing improvement within a few visits. Some conditions, such as BPPV, may resolve in one or two treatments. More complex vestibular conditions may require several weeks of therapy to retrain the balance system.

  • When a needle is inserted into a tight muscle or trigger point, it can create a small “twitch response” in the muscle. This response helps the muscle relax and reset. Dry needling may help:

    • Decrease muscle tension
    • Improve blood flow to injured tissues
    • Reduce pain signals
    • Restore normal muscle activation
    • Improve flexibility and movement

    Many patients experience relief after just one or two treatments, although some conditions may require multiple sessions.

    Conditions That May Benefit From Dry Needling

    Dry needling can be helpful for many musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions, including:

    • Neck and shoulder pain
    • Low back pain
    • Hip pain
    • Headaches and migraines
    • Pelvic pain
    • Muscle tightness and trigger points
    • Sports injuries
    • Tendon pain
    • Postural pain
    • Jaw pain (TMJ)

    Dry needling can also be helpful for patients experiencing chronic muscle tension that has not improved with stretching or traditional therapy alone.

  • Dry needling is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by a trained physical therapist. Our therapists are certified in Dynamic Integrative Dry Needling, which is an advanced technique used to treat muscle pain and dysfunction.

    Your therapist will always review your medical history and determine if dry needling is appropriate for your condition.

  • Dry needling treatments are typically quick and performed in a comfortable clinical setting. The needles used are extremely thin and sterile, and most patients report minimal discomfort.

    During treatment you may feel:

    • A small twitch in the muscle
    • Mild cramping or pressure
    • Temporary soreness afterward

    Some patients feel immediate relief, while others notice improvement over the next 24–48 hours as the muscle relaxes and circulation improves.

  • Most insurance companies currently do not cover dry needling. However, we strive to keep this treatment affordable for our patients and can discuss options with you during your visit.