COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on people’s ability to do many tasks. It has made people fearful of interacting with others directly. Going to the grocery store is often a frustrating exercise. It may even have some physical therapy patients concerned about the availability of therapy.

This concern is especially valid for people in the middle of post-surgical rehab. Such people can be on medication that may suppress their immune system. This makes them more likely to catch the coronavirus. Additionally, stopping their therapy can prolong their recovery process. Other patients who might be concerned about getting the physical therapy they need include chronic pain sufferers. 

Fortunately, there’s an option called virtual physical therapy that can help both of these patients. Our team is offering virtual physical therapy as well as in-clinic services so you can get the treatment you need if you need to remain home.

Here are three frequently asked questions (FAQs) about virtual physical therapy that can help you learn more about this service: 

1. What is virtual physical therapy?

This is the most common FAQ about virtual physical therapy. This service is a type of telemedicine, and it involves patients having sessions with a physical therapist through a live video link. The sessions typically have a live audio connection as well. 

These sessions allow physical therapists to do many things. They can find out information about your symptoms or the progression of your recovery. Your physical therapist can also offer tips to make your normal daily activities easier. 

You will also be asked to do certain therapeutic exercises by their therapist. Some therapists may even demonstrate the exercises to you. This can help ensure you’re doing them accurately. 

Studies report that more than 91% of patients have been highly satisfied with their virtual physical therapy. 

2. How much will a virtual physical therapy session cost?

Virtual physical therapy care is covered by most major insurances in the same way as an in-person visit. Our team also accepts credit and debit as well as Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) payments for Medicare, Medicaid and self-pay patients.

3. Are there steps I should take before my virtual physical therapy session?

Yes, there are steps we recommend patients take prior to their virtual physical therapy sessions. Some of these steps include: 

• Choose the best device for your appointment. Devices commonly used include smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers. 
• Ensure that your chosen device’s camera, microphone and speaker(s) are working.
• Check your email for session confirmations, updates or other information.
• Ready an appropriate space in your home. This space should be large enough to do therapy movements. It should also be well lit and free of trip hazards. 
• Make sure your device can operate hands-free while doing therapy exercises. 

Have more virtual physical therapy FAQs? Continuum Wellness can help

You don’t have to wonder where to go to get answers to your virtual physical therapy FAQs. Our Continuum Wellness team is here to assist you. We’re currently offering virtual physical therapy sessions as well as in-clinic sessions for those who prefer that. 

Are you ready to try a virtual physical therapy session with one of our therapy specialists? Contact our team for more information about virtual physical therapy today or to schedule an initial appointment.