Physical therapy costs $20 to $60 per session with insurance or $80 to $150 per session without insurance. Physical therapy fees depend on the type of injury or condition, treatment received, and the total number of sessions prescribed. Costs may fall in the higher end of the range if a session includes specialized treatment, such as massage, hydrotherapy, or electrical stimulation therapy.

The cost of physical therapy also includes an initial session to evaluate your condition, set goals for progress, and develop a treatment plan.

Physical therapy (PT) is a treatment method to restore mobility, improve functional movement, reduce or eliminate acute and chronic pain, and strengthen muscles weakened by injury or illness. PT is commonly prescribed after you undergo surgery, such as knee or hip replacement, or to help you recover after a sports injury or car accident.

Physical therapy, also called physiotherapy, may include some or all of the following:

• Exercises for strength and mobility
• Massage therapy
• Heat or cold therapy
• Electrical current or ultrasound therapy
• Light therapy
• Hydrotherapy

During your initial assessment, your physical therapist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your injury or illness.

Yes, most licensed physical therapists accept major insurance plans and Medicare. Check with your health insurance provider to confirm your coverage and copay amounts. You can often minimize your copay by selecting a therapist from within your insurance provider's network.

If your injury is the result of an accident, your physical therapy expenses may be covered by Workers' Comp or automobile insurance.

The duration of physical therapy depends on the injury or condition being treated, your goals, and your rate of healing. The total length of physical therapy can be weeks or months. Your therapist will also prescribe exercises for you to perform on your own in between sessions, and your recovery process depends greatly on how much time you devote to the exercises.

A typical physical therapy session lasts 30 to 90 minutes and takes place two to three times per week. As your body recovers over time, the therapist may recommend reducing the frequency to once or twice per week.

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely and easily, such as loose-fitting t-shirts and athletic shorts or pants, along with socks and sneakers or non-skid shoes. Make sure the clothing allows the physical therapist to access any areas of injury.

Remove any dangling jewelry, like necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. Avoid wearing sandals, boots, or open-toed shoes.

When searching for physical therapy, follow these guidelines:

First, consider whether you want to see a specialist with advanced certification in one of these areas:

• Cardiovascular and pulmonary
• Neurology
• Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Geriatrics
• Pediatrics
• Sports injuries

After determining if you need a specialist or a standard physical therapist, take these steps:

• Ask for recommendations from your medical provider.
• Read reviews on Thervo and Google.
• Confirm the physical therapist is licensed to practice in your state.
• Ask if the physical therapist accepts your health insurance and if they'll submit the claims on your behalf.

Ask the physical therapist these questions before scheduling a session:

• How much experience do you have in treating my condition?
• Will the sessions take place at your office or do you offer in-home physical therapy?
• Will I see the same physical therapist for each session?
• How should I prepare for the visit?
• How many times a week should I get therapy?
• How long will each visit last?
• What are the short-term and long-term goals for my physical therapy?
• How soon can I expect to see results?
• Do you accept my health insurance?
• Do you submit the claims to my health insurance on my behalf?
• What is your cancellation policy?