Chicago Physical Therapy FAQ
Get your Physical Therapy questions answered.
General Questions
Advance Core Physical Therapy and Wellness accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) PPO and Medicare.
We accept uninsured patients, and provide a Superbill for your services with us. You can present the Superbill to your insurance provider to create claims.
We try to fight for your claim as much as possible, but your insurance provider will make the final decision regarding reimbursement.
You do not need a physician’s referral in order to schedule an appointment with us. We recommend checking with your insurance provider if a referral is necessary for entire treatment reimbursement.
If you are a private payer, you do not need a physician referral. We ask that you provide the contact information of your Primary Care Physician (PCP) to add on file so that we may send your medical records to them to keep on file.
This means that you can save time and money by scheduling your appointment directly with your physical therapist.
Your first appointment, in which we put together a customized plan and discuss your goals and needs during a one-and-a-half-hour evaluation costs $180. Each additional appointment moving forward will be $180.
If you have insurance coverage, we will bill treatment directly to your insurance company.
If you do not have insurance coverage (due to being out of Network), we will provide an itemized statement for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Your first consultation will last approximately one and a half hours and will include a thorough evaluation of your current condition(s), medical history, diagnostic tests, and other factors that are relevant to addressing your health needs.
Following your evaluation, we will thoroughly explain your personalized treatment plan and expectations for recovery.
- Valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, school ID card, or passport
- Insurance Card, if applicable
- Method of payment (we accept MasterCard and Visa)
Please wear loose, comfortable clothes – such as athletic wear and gym shoes, and no jewelry.
Take a simple 5-question Pelvic Health quiz to see if you might be unnecessarily suffering from Pelvic Health related issues.
Pelvic Health
Pelvic floor therapy is a specialization of physical therapy that focuses on improving the function and strength of the muscles in the pelvic region. This therapy addresses many issues, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. With the help of a trained therapist, patients can work on regaining control of these muscles and live a more comfortable, fulfilling life.
Whether through targeted exercises, manual therapy, or technology, pelvic floor therapy offers a personalized and effective solution for individuals looking to improve their pelvic health.
The exact timing of when to start pelvic floor therapy after giving birth depends on the birth type (vaginal/cesarean), whether you had any complications during delivery, and your overall health and recovery.
In general, you can start pelvic floor therapy after your six-week postpartum checkup. This allows your body time to heal from childbirth. However, if you had a difficult delivery, such as a forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, a tear, or episiotomy, you may want to start therapy sooner.
While often associated with women’s health, pelvic floor therapy can also bring wonderful benefits for men. If you have a pelvis, you can benefit from Pelvic Floor Therapy!
Firstly, Pelvic Therapy can improve bladder and bowel control, allowing men to avoid embarrassing and inconvenient accidents. It can also address erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the pelvic region and strengthening the muscles responsible for achieving and maintaining an erection. Additionally, pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate chronic pelvic pain, which can have a significant impact on quality of life.
We understand that seeking help for pelvic floor issues can feel uncomfortable or embarrassing for many men. Please remember that pelvic floor therapy is safe, effective, and non-invasive, and can significantly improve your quality of life. The caring physical therapists at Advance Core Therapy will work with you in a professional and compassionate manner to help you achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.
Common procedures and exercises used in Pelvic Floor Therapy may include:
Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and trigger point release may be used to improve the mobility and function of the pelvic floor muscles.
Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a technique that involves using sensors to monitor muscle activity and provide feedback to the patient about how to better control their pelvic floor muscles.
Radiofrequency Stimulation: We provide INDIBA® treatments — the market leader in radio frequency treatments for reducing pain and accelerating the natural recovery of the body. The INDIBA device generates a safe, pain free, electromagnetic wave that introduces energy into the body, causing bio-stimulation and a thermal effect, which complements your recovery and can improve results from your first treatment.
Therapeutic Exercise: Therapeutic exercises customized to your needs can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Relaxation Techniques: Relaxation techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and meditation can help reduce muscle tension and improve overall pelvic floor function.
Education: Pelvic floor therapy may involve educating patients about anatomy, proper posture, and techniques for improving pelvic floor function in daily activities.
Pelvic Floor Therapy is an effective alternative to surgery since it does not require incisions (that will take a while to heal) or general anesthesia. It has no side effects and does not require a lengthy recovery period.
Studies have shown that patients who undergo Pelvic Floor Therapy report:
- reduced pain
- improved bladder and bowel control
- an overall improvement in their ability to perform daily activities
Surgical procedures can be associated with significant risks, such as infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding organs. Recovery from surgery can be lengthy, which can impact your quality of life.
Although in some cases, surgery might be the only option, most healthcare providers recommend choosing a non-invasive option first.
By choosing pelvic floor therapy as your first line of defense, patients can avoid the risks and limitations associated with surgery and enjoy the benefits of a non-invasive, effective, and convenient treatment option.
Visceral Manipulation
Visceral Manipulation is a form of physical therapy used to alleviate pain and improve function by manually manipulating the body’s internal organs, such as the liver, stomach, and intestines.
Your therapist will use gentle manual pressure and specific movements to improve organ mobility, enhance the body’s natural healing process, and relieve discomfort.
Frequently Asked Pregnancy Visceral Manipulation Questions
Visceral manipulation works by using gentle manual pressure and stretching techniques to release restrictions in the connective tissues and muscles surrounding the organs.
By improving the mobility and function of the internal organs, visceral manipulation can help alleviate symptoms and promote better overall health.
Some of the conditions that can benefit from visceral manipulation include:
- Constipation and bloating
- Menstrual cramps and irregularities
- Bladder and urinary issues
- Pelvic pain and discomfort
- Digestive disorders
Yes, visceral manipulation is generally considered a safe and is a popular non-invasive technique. At Advance Core, we offer visceral manipulation as part of our comprehensive approach to patients’ health.
It’s important to note that, as with any physical therapy modality, there may be some potential risks or side effects associated with visceral manipulation. These may include soreness or discomfort in the treatment area, or a temporary increase in symptoms as the body adjusts to the treatment. However, these side effects are typically mild and short-lived.
During a visceral manipulation session, you will lie down on a comfortable treatment table while our physical therapist applies gentle pressure and stretching to the affected areas. You may feel some pressure or tension as the therapist works on the area, but it should not be painful or uncomfortable. In fact, many patients find visceral manipulation to be a relaxing and calming experience.
The sensations you may feel during a visceral manipulation session can vary depending on the area being treated and your individual response to the treatment. Some patients report feeling a release or shift in the affected area, while others may experience a sense of lightness or increased mobility.
Pregnancy Care
Physical therapy can be a safe and healthy option for pregnant women who are experiencing discomfort or complications, or are trying to prepare before they happen.
Trained PTs can help address many of the common issues that women experience during pregnancy, such as lower back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and swelling in the hands and feet. We also provide guidance on exercises and body mechanics that can help manage symptoms and prepare for labor and delivery.
Physical Therapy can be a safe and effective option for pregnant and postpartum women. Our physical therapists who specialize in women’s health are trained to provide tailored treatments that are safe for both you and your baby.
The benefits of Physical Therapy during pregnancy and postpartum go beyond just managing symptoms. Physical therapy is a safer alternative to pain medication, which can have potential side effects and risks for both you and your baby. By using non-invasive and drug-free treatments, we can help you achieve a healthier pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Of course, it’s important to note that physical therapy during pregnancy and postpartum should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Our physical therapists are trained to provide safe and effective treatments that are tailored to your specific needs and health status.
While physical therapy can be a safe and effective option for pregnant women, there are some contraindications that should be taken into consideration.
Some of the contraindications to physical therapy during pregnancy may include:
- Placenta previa or risk of premature labor
- Significant cardiovascular or respiratory issues
- Infection or fever
- Cervical insufficiency or cerclage
It’s important to note that contraindications may vary depending on the individual patient and their specific medical history. This is why it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing physical therapy during pregnancy.
Our physical therapists who specialize in women’s health are trained to identify any potential risks or contraindications and adjust treatment plans accordingly. We always prioritize the safety and well-being of our patients and will work closely with your healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Sexual Dysfunction
Physical therapy can definitely help with erectile dysfunction as addressing pelvic floor muscle weakness, tension or dysfunction can lead to improvements in erectile function.
During physical therapy sessions, we work with you to identify and address any pelvic floor issues through targeted exercises, biofeedback, and other modern techniques. By strengthening and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, we can help improve blood flow to the penis, leading to stronger and longer-lasting erections.
If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, don’t hesitate to reach out. By addressing the root cause of the problem, we can help you regain your confidence and enjoy a more fulfilling sex life.
Yes, physical therapy can absolutely help with painful sex. Our team of caring physical therapists understand how debilitating and frustrating it can be to experience pain during sex, and how it can impact your overall quality of life and relationships.
During physical therapy sessions, we work together to identify the root cause of your pain, which may include conditions like pelvic floor muscle tension, nerve irritation, or scar tissue. From there, we develop a personalized treatment plan to address these issues through a variety of techniques such as manual therapy, exercises, and stretches.
By working to release tension, improve muscle strength and flexibility, and reduce pain, we will help you enjoy a more comfortable and satisfying sex life. Don’t suffer in silence – if you’re experiencing pain during sex, reach out to us, so we can help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
Cancer Rehabilitation
Cancer rehabilitation is a process of care that helps cancer patients regain their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
It is designed to support patients who have undergone cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, to help them recover from the effects of these treatments.
Cancer rehabilitation focuses on restoring patients’ functional abilities, reducing symptoms and side effects, and improving their quality of life. It is a holistic approach that involves various healthcare professionals, including physicians, psychologists, and physical therapists.
One of the most common side effects of cancer treatment is fatigue, which can make it difficult to perform even basic daily activities.
Our physical therapists work with cancer patients to develop exercise programs tailored to their specific needs and limitations, which can help to reduce fatigue and improve overall quality of life. PT helps address issues with balance, strength, and range of motion, all of which can be impacted by cancer treatment.
By working with a physical therapist, patients can build their physical resilience and improve their ability to perform daily activities, which can make a huge difference in their overall well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits, physical therapy can also have a positive impact on mental health. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful and can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. Our trained and passionate therapists can serve as a source of emotional support and provide patients with tools to help them manage their stress levels throughout their cancer treatment.
All of these benefits can help cancer patients to feel more empowered and in control of their treatment, which can be an important factor in their overall recovery.
Orthopedic Care
Orthopedic physical therapy is a form of PT that focuses on treating injuries and conditions related to the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.) If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or weakness in any of these areas, an orthopedic physical therapist can help you with personalized treatment plan that will help you recover and regain your strength, mobility, and function.
Our experienced and skilled physical therapists will work with you to assess your condition, identify any underlying causes of your pain or dysfunction, and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Our treatment approach may include a combination of hands-on manual therapy, exercise therapy, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation.
While physical therapy covers a wide range of conditions and focuses on helping patients recover their function and mobility, Orthopedic Physical Therapy is a more specialized field that focuses exclusively on musculoskeletal conditions and involves more targeted treatment plans to help patients recover from injuries or disorders affecting their bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Orthopedic physical therapists specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions that affect the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Our goal is to help patients recover from injuries or disorders that cause pain, loss of function, and reduced mobility.
Orthopedic therapists use a combination of manual therapy, exercise therapy, and other treatment modalities to help patients achieve their goals. They work with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and help them recover from a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, sprains, strains, arthritis, and other injuries or disorders.
Menopause Care
Physical therapy can be a great way to regulate the body during this transition and alleviate symptoms. Through exercises and stretches, physical therapists can help you maintain muscle mass, bone density, and overall physical function. Additionally, physical therapy can help alleviate pain and stiffness that can result from hormonal changes.
When it comes to menopause, it is important to remember that every woman’s experience is unique. Physical therapy at Advance Core can provide personalized care to address your specific symptoms and concerns.
A physical therapist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs, focusing on strengthening and flexibility exercises that will help regulate your body and ease your transition. With the right guidance and support, you can go through menopause naturally and with greater ease.
Menopause itself is a natural and normal process that every woman experiences as they age. However, menopause can be accompanied by unpleasant side effects such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and decreased sex drive.
Fortunately, there are ways to manage these symptoms effectively, and physical therapy is one of them! Physical therapy can provide a holistic approach to managing the side effects of menopause by helping to regulate the body and alleviate pain and stiffness. Customized exercises and stretches help you maintain muscle mass, bone density, and overall physical function.
In addition to physical therapy, there are many holistic approaches that can help manage the symptoms of menopause. These include practices such as dry needling acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and dietary changes.
After menopause, it’s as important as ever to prioritize your health and well-being. Even though the symptoms of menopause may have subsided, maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent future health issues.
Due to hormonal changes, you may be at increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. To help maintain healthy bones, it’s important to engage in correct exercises with a skilled physical therapist, eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and quit smoking. Make sure to continue regular health screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies, to detect any potential issues early.
post-menopause care should include maintaining a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease — which can be achieved through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques (like meditation or yoga).
By taking a proactive approach to post-menopause care, you can enjoy an empowered and fulfilling life well into your golden years. Remember, it’s never too late to prioritize your health and well-being!
Get Started Today
Meet your PT provider
Schedule an appointment and meet your Chicago Physical Therapist who will help you put together a PT plan.
Follow the customized plan
The physical therapy plan we create for you will ensure you get better and start feeling results, fast.
Reach your goals
Forget about embarrassment, pain, or holding back. Get back to living your life — stronger than ever.
