INTEGRATIVE
PHYSICAL THERAPY
and WELLNESS
Addressing your body as a whole, with one-on-one services and advanced skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
What conditions do you treat?
Dr. Matthews can treat most any injury involving the muscles, bones, and nerves of the human body. She prides herself on not only performing a thorough evaluation, but taking the time to listen to the patient's concerns and needs. She strives to develop the best treatment plan to restore the patient's normal functioning, but also to meet their personal goals.
What types of health insurance do you accept?
We are out-of-network with ALL insurance providers. This allows us to treat patients in an individualized, one-on-one basis, centered around the patient's goals, without the control and restrictions imposed by insurance regulations. We are able to treat the patient's body as a whole, not limiting treatment to one separate part at a time as insurance companies often dictate with their strict rules for reimbursement of physical therapy services.
Do I need a physician's referral?
No. Since North Carolina is a direct access state for physical therapy, you DO NOT need a physician’s referral to be seen first by a physical therapist. That's right, no more waiting to get in to see your primary care doctor before you can start your physical therapy!
Can I submit a claim to my insurance to try and get reimbursed?
Since we are out-of-network with ALL insurance policies, you will have to check with your particular policy to ask about out-of-network physical therapy benefits. It is possible that you could be reimbursed for a portion of the services provided by Integrative Physical Therapy and Wellness. If that is the case, you will be provided with an invoice that can be submitted to your insurance for these out-of-network services.
What is dry needling?
Dry Needling (DN) involves inserting a tiny monofilament needle into symptomatic tissue with the intent to reduce pain, increase circulation, and improve function of the neuromusculoskeletal system. DN is not traditional Chinese Acupuncture, but instead is based on neurology, physiology and western medical principles. DN is a valuable treatment for musculoskeletal pain as well as to increase muscle performance.
What is cupping?
Cupping involves placing therapeutic cups on the skin to create suction. This suction increases blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed, relieving muscle tension, improving overall blood flow, and promoting cell repair.
What types of payment do you accept?
Integrative Physical Therapy and Wellness is classified as a cash-based clinic, meaning that we provide private-pay, out-of-pocket services. However, we not only accept cash--we also accept all major credit cards, debit cards, HSA and FSA cards, as well as checks. Through our Patient Portal you are even able to keep a credit card on file with us for easier check out each session.
How many treatment sessions will I need?
Each patient and their treatment plan is uniquely different, but most of our patients start out coming in once a week for several weeks.
The one-on-one care you will receive from us allows for constant communication and re-assessment, as well as progression of an individualized exercise program from your doctor of physical therapy--giving you the tools to prolong the relief you will receive during treatments. After reaching their goals from being seen once a week, some patients opt to return at least monthly for maintenance.
Do you offer any package discounts?
Yes! You can pre-pay for 10 follow up sessions after your initial evaluation at a 20% discount. That means you pay for 8 follow up sessions, and receive 2 free!!
How do I make an appointment?
Easy. Just call 910-708-2615 to speak with Dr. Matthews, who will ask you a few questions about your needs and then do her best to schedule an appointment at a time that works best for you.
Where are you located?
Integrative Physical Therapy and Wellness is located within the Swansboro Plaza, in front of the Swansboro Municipal Park. It is easiest to drive around to the parking lot behind the building, and enter through the double doors that face the Park. As you enter, there is a waiting area just to your left. Have a seat there and wait for Dr. Matthews to come and get you at your scheduled appointment time.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Loose and comfortable clothing. Of course, Dr. Matthews will need to get to any body part that is of concern, but often times upon further examination there is also a need to look at other areas, such as your neck or back. If you forget and wear your skinny jeans or form-fitting long-sleeve top, no worries--we have gowns and shorts to change into--another advantage to being treated one-on-one behind a closed door instead of out in a crowded open space.
Will I have the same therapist every time?
Yes! At Integrative Physical Therapy and Wellness, you will ALWAYS be treated by Dr. Matthews only--no techs, no assistants, no other therapists to whom you will have to explain your story again and again. In fact, you will be the ONLY patient during your scheduled treatment time, allowing your doctor of physical therapy to focus all of her time on you and you only.
Don’t see your question or still have other queries? Get in touch for more information.