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304 verified Physical Therapists in St Petersburg, FL
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 09/04/2026
Availability last updated 09/04/2026
Chiropractor
51 mi · 8466 Northcliffe Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34606
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Sean first visited a chiropractic office over 20 years ago after tearing two discs in his lower back. The pain was agonizing, but what was worse was that it was constant and unrelenting. It made everything in life difficult—he found it hard to concentrate, be a good employee, or even a father wh...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·15 reviews
Tanya first came to the house to treat my ear infection and my husbands sinus infection right after we had our newborn at the end of last year. We thought it was super convenient to receive quality care in the comfort of our own home. Tanya even helped us boost our immune systems with IV therapy. Si...Click to read more
Longwood, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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********CASH PAY ONLY, INSURANCE IS NOT ACCEPTED******** New patient telemedicine appointments are $109. In-person clinic visits are $140. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner who focuses on an integrative/functional approach with an emphasis on prevention. Tanya Jilkevorkian, APRN, FNP-C, i...Click to read more
Physical Therapist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Lindsey is proud to offer physical therapy as part of XRHealth, a virtual therapy clinic that provides one-on-one physical and occupational therapy to help you feel like yourself again. After an initial evaluation and approval from your therapist, patients receive a VR headset to use at home at no e...Click to read more
Physical Therapist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ashley is proud to offer physical therapy as part of XRHealth, a virtual therapy clinic that provides one-on-one physical and occupational therapy to help you feel like yourself again. After an initial evaluation and approval from your therapist, patients receive a VR headset to use at home at no ex...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.97
·80 reviews
He was amazing, listened to what I was there for. - Dec 11, 2024 by Tina L.Click to read more
West Melbourne, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in congestive heart failure + 4 more ·
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Dr. Ronald Z. Mendez, a board-certified Internal Medicine specialist, is a dynamic force in healthcare. He blends passion, expertise, and cultural fluency in his practice. Fluent in Spanish, he ensures comprehensive care for his diverse patient population, drawing from his education at PUCCM in th...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.86
·42 reviews
For the first time in a long time I felt heard by a medical professional. Not rushed. - Nov 30, 2025 by Samantha S.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Lucas Tonies, MSN, FNP-C, CCRN, is a Nurse Practitioner providing primary and telemedicine care at NoMi Beach Health. He spent nearly two decades in critical care before moving into outpatient medicine, where he focuses on prevention, early intervention, and care plans built around each patient’s ac...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Great service. She puts care over profits!! by KGClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Takeshanicole “Tish” Ziemblicki is a respected Family Nurse Practitioner in Tampa Bay and surrounding areas. She is a Veteran of the US Army, where she served as a Logistics Specialist and Combat Medic for eight years. After earning her Master’s in Nursing from South University and graduating from t...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in diabetic emergency + 1 more ·
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Dr. Niraj Patel is an adept and experienced family physician working in Smyrna, NY, and Merritt Island, FL. He provides virtual consultations and follow-ups for birth control, hypertension, sore throat, and sinus problems at Cora Health. Dr. Patel completed a medical degree from the Philadelphia C...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.86
·37 reviews
I needed a primary doctor and was able to schedule same day appointment online. Alex , called me as soon I set appointment so that I can fill out forms before arriving. She was friendly and helpful on the phone and on arrival. The doctor was very friendly and also helpful. Thank you for making me fe...Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in sepsis + 1 more ·
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Dr. Zeizoun believes in a patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen, educate, and develop individualized treatment plans for each patient. Whether it's routine check-ups, managing chronic conditions, or providing preventative care, Dr. Zeizoun is committed to supporting your overall well-...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.38
·13 reviews
Trevor was very informative and professional. I appreciate his insights and would highly recommend his services! by DFClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Medicare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Island Glo Aesthetics & Primary Care Trevor McKenzie, MSN, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of healthcare experience specializing in primary care, acute care, aesthetics, and wellness. With roots in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Saint Thomas, Jamaica, he pr...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Certified Nurse Practitioner-FNP, with a skilled career of more than 25 years of practical experience in hospital, outpatient settings, skilled nursing facilities, in-home visits and primary care environments. The substance of my nursing career and experience is Emergency Medicine, Pre-op an...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 3 more
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
I felt listened to and received pertinent feedback! - May 7, 2025 by Erica W.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Intake forms must be completed before your appointment. Ms. Alendre McGhee is a skilled family nurse practitioner at Ingenious Health & Wellness in Englewood, OH. She provides healthcare to the wider community through both in-person and video consultations. Ms. McGhee earned her Doctorate in Family...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
I much appreciate her ongoing support to help me be healthy. Very compassionate and understanding. by ACClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Evelyn Kikta is a nurse practitioner at EvWillHelp. She offers virtual consultations to patients with common illnesses, chronic diseases, minor injuries, and preventative care needs.  Ms. Kikta maintains a friendly, caring, and empathetic approach during consultations. She understands everyone'...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I’m Suzette, a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). I obtained a Bachelor Degree in Nursing (BSN) in 2004, a Master’s Degree in Nursing Administration Leadership and Finance (MSN-NE) in 2010 and a Post Master's Certificate in 2021. My work experience has been funded providing patient ca...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
Mrs. Dearman provided superb care during my visit! I was somewhat apprehensive about asking my personal questions but she reassured me that I was in confidential and professional hands. I appreciate the thorough explanations of my condition and treatments in layman's terms. She has a compassionate a...Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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As a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience, I am dedicated to caring for individuals and families. My practice emphasizes preventive health and considers the whole person�addressing physical, emotional, and social aspects to tailor personalized care plans. I treat patients from...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
4.29
·14 reviews
La paciente dice fue le eucanta la clinicia al trato de los eepceados se siente eu familiar. exta feliz. by LQClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Zuylan Riera is an internal medicine physician with over 10 years of experience in patient care. She graduated from the Universidad de Ciencias Medicas in Havana, Cuba, in 2008, where she also completed her residency in anesthesiology. Later, she moved to Miami, Florida, to finish her internal m...Click to read more
Chiropractor (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Dr. Padron's unwavering commitment to relieving her patients of pain is truly remarkable. I cannot recommend her enough - from the moment you step into her office, she makes you feel right at home. My first visit and treatment with her were an absolute delight. by MHClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Vaitiare's passion is to help people live their best lives. With a chiropractic doctorate and other certifications such as FAKTR, Rock Tape Movement Specialist and Acupuncture Certification, Dr. Vaitiare is committed to offering the highest quality of professional healthcare in a comfortable and...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·13 reviews
Seen many doctors in my young 72 years of age. From the U.K., Spain, and the U.S. Dr. Webb is a cut above the rest and that’s putting it mildly. This man cares about you. You are not another face on the rotating table. Twice he came to see me in Hospital when I wasn’t even his patient but actually t...Click to read more
Naples, FL
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in anxiety disorders + 9 more ·
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Gary A. Webb MD MS FAAFP is a board-certified family physician and fellowship trained geriatrician. Dr. Webb did his medical school training at the American University of the Caribbean. His third year of training took him to Epsom England just south of London and for his fourth year he went to Met...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.66
·70 reviews
She was great . She was understanding and was on point when I ask her question . It was a good visit . - Apr 11, 2025 by Betsy M.Click to read more
Boca Raton, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more ·
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An experienced primary care doctor, Dr. Gayatri Siram welcomes patients of all ages, genders, and communities at Primary Care 369 in Boca Raton, FL. Dr. Siram earned her medical degree from the Kasturba Medical College Mangalore. She finished her internship in internal medicine at Metropolitan Hosp...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.75
·4 reviews
Delray Beach, FL
Accepts Medicare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in underactive thyroid + 5 more ·
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Dr. Janka Baiza is an accomplished internist serving the residents of Delray Beach, FL. Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, she currently practices at Personal Physician Care. Fluent in English, Spanish, Czech, and Slovak, Dr. Baiza caters to the needs of patients from different com...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Very Good by ESClick to read more
Delray Beach, FL
Accepts Medicare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 4 more ·
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Dr. Michal Miller is an experienced and compassionate internist at Personal Physician Care. She offers her services to patients residing in Delray Beach, FL. Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Miller treats a broad spectrum of conditions, including high blood pressure,...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Very impressed! by NCClick to read more
Delray Beach, FL
Accepts Medicare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 9 more ·
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Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Kari Tannenbaum is an internist catering to the adults of Delray Beach, FL. She works at Personal Physician Care, treating various complex chronic disorders in adults. As part of her educational training, Dr. Tannenbaum attained a medical d...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.33
·6 reviews
I had a wonderful experience I would not go anywhere else - Apr 14, 2024 by Marita K.Click to read more
Boca Raton, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Medicare + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Revival Health Services - Primary Care Practice (PCP) stands out with extended hours, comprehensive care for all ages, and a holistic approach to wellness. Our in-house labs ensure quick testing, and we have a close relationship with an imaging center for any advanced needs. With flexible payment op...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
Boca Raton, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Medicare + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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This provider's Primary Supervising Physician is Andrew Bennett. They hold a Master's in Clinical Medical Science from Barry University.Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Boca Raton, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Serge Alexandre, MD, brings over 30 years of experience to our practice, specializing in General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics. He received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 1983 and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at The Long Island College Hospital. Dr...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
I tried looking at my email and connecting over video, but no luck. No one has called me back. I never got to have an appointment - May 7, 2025 by Trevor W.Click to read more
Jacksonville, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Pricing: The cost of each visit ranges from $99.00 to $169.00 for primary care visits, depending on the appointment type and the needs of the patient. You will receive a separate invoice for the cost of your visit from Intuit/QuickBooks. If you pay for your appointment and need to reschedule, we w...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.66
·368 reviews
I have the best primary, explains Listens and is very attentive. I recommend 100%. - Apr 4, 2025 by Lissette M.Click to read more
Sunrise, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in stroke + 4 more ·
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Dr. Todd Jacobs is a dedicated and highly experienced Family Practice physician with over 20 years of expertise in providing compassionate, patient-centered care. As the Medical Director of Loyal Medical Group, he leads with a commitment to excellence, ensuring the highest standards of medical pract...Click to read more
Physical Therapist (Virtual)
Miramar, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Derion Pittman, owner and operator of DP Physical Therapy. I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. I have several years of clinical experience in post-surgical, orthopedic conditions, and athletic-based injuries in the outpatien...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Coconut Creek, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.60
·5 reviews
Dr Alfonso was great. Very knowledgeable, professional and personable. - Mar 13, 2026 by Timathieu S.Click to read more
Plantation, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Abraham Alfonso Remigio was born in Havana Cuba. He came to the US very early in his life. He attended Florida International University (FIU) for his undergraduate studies, completing a dual major in Chemistry and Biology. Dr. Alfonso then worked in a pharmaceutical company for several years dev...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Plantation, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Great doctor, takes his time, no rush, funny. by WMClick to read more
Miramar, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Carlos Romero is a family physician at Eminat Medical Center in Miramar, FL. He offers in-person and virtual consultations to individuals and families of all ages with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries.  Dr. Romero understands patients’ concerns, reviews medical histories, ...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Pompano Beach, FL
Accepts Medicare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in acid reflux + 8 more ·
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Dr. Cary Bortnick is an experienced internist offering his expertise at Personal Physician Care. A fluent English and Spanish speaker, Dr. Bortnick sees patients from diverse communities in Pompano Beach, FL. At present, he is also an American Medical Association member. Patients can consult Dr. B...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Pembroke Pines, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
Hialeah, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
Miami Gardens, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Great young professional, who cares about your well being. by KJClick to read more
Miami, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Rates: $200 per visit We do not prescribe controlled substances, Accutane, or medical abortion services. Concierge membership starts at $250/month for unlimited telemedicine visits and concierge benefits. Billed annually upfront.****** Board-certified family medicine physician and founder of ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Miami Beach, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Tina Miranda M.D., M.B.A., is an accomplished medical professional and Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of new telehealth startup, TeleMedCo™. Dr. Miranda graduated from the Health Science Center at Brooklyn at the State University of New York and completed her residency in Internal Medicine...Click to read more
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1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

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100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Physical Therapist in St Petersburg?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Physical Therapist in St Petersburg, book an appointment, and see the Physical Therapist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Physical Therapists in St Petersburg who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a St Petersburg Physical Therapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a St Petersburg Physical Therapist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Physical Therapist in St Petersburg?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Physical Therapists in St Petersburg and book appointments instantly. You can search for St Petersburg Physical Therapists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Physical Therapist in St Petersburg?

When you search for St Petersburg Physical Therapists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Physical Therapists in St Petersburg who match your preferences.


How can I find a St Petersburg Physical Therapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for St Petersburg Physical Therapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Physical Therapist in St Petersburg?

You can use Zocdoc to find Physical Therapists in St Petersburg who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Physical Therapist online in St Petersburg?

Physical Therapists in St Petersburg on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Physical Therapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Physical Therapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Physical Therapists in St Petersburg who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Physical Therapist in St Petersburg who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Physical Therapist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Physical Therapist in St Petersburg who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Physical Therapists in St Petersburg. Many Physical Therapists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a physical therapist?


A physical therapist (PT) diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the mobility and balance of the human body. Their area of expertise includes helping people manage illness or injuries hampering the following:


  • Musculoskeletal system (bones and muscles)
  • Neurological system (brain, spine, and nerves)
  • Cardiopulmonary system (heart and lungs)
  • Integumentary system (skin)


People of all ages and in any phase of life can benefit from visiting a physical therapist near them. Some people seek the guidance of a physical therapist to improve their health, while some may choose to avoid surgery for minor cases. Physical therapists also educate them on different procedures and lifestyle habits to prevent developing future issues. They work in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care and athletics facilities, schools, and clinics.

Successful physical therapists have effective communication and problem-solving skills. It helps them know patients' needs and curate an ideal treatment plan while considering their patients' interests.

 

A physical therapist's routine duties include:


  • Diagnosing conditions and ascertaining levels of functioning of particular body parts by observing their balance, motion, and ability to perform tasks
  • Addressing patient concerns and tracking progress
  • Using treatment methods like electrical stimulation machines or kinesthetic tape to provide relief to patients
  • Assisting patients by providing supportive devices like a crutch or cane
  • Creating and executing arrangements to discharge patients from care when appropriate


Conditions that physical therapists treat


Physical therapy treats people with injuries, disabilities, or other health issues affecting the body's overall functioning. A physical therapist might be able to assist you with the following:


  • Foot and ankle injuries like foot fractures or pain, ankle ligament tears, and sprains
  • Hip conditions like fractures and labral tear
  • Joint replacement like hip, knee, and shoulder replacement
  • Knee conditions like knee and ligament injuries, knee meniscus tear, and patellofemoral syndrome
  • Post-operative cancer care 
  • Shoulder conditions like frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tear, dislocated shoulder, shoulder fracture, impingement, and separation
  • Spine conditions like chronic back pain, lumbar spine, cervical spine or neck conditions, low back pain, sacroiliac (S.I.) joint pain
  • Sports injuries like repetitive motion injuries that may be due to overuse, bursitis, tendonitis, running injuries, stress fractures, shin splints
  • Sports performance improvement
  • Headaches
  • Women's health issues like osteoporosis and pelvic floor strengthening


Educational qualifications of physical therapists


A person must complete a physical therapy program to practice as a physical therapist. They must earn a bachelor's degree in physical therapy and a Ph.D. program. Alternatively, they may enroll in a six-year physical therapy program, including an undergraduate and a doctoral degree, where they earn a bachelor's degree and gain clinical experience in physical therapy. After completing their college studies, they get the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) title. 

Once their doctoral program is complete, some physical therapists enroll in a residency or fellowship program. It offers them mentorship and further training and also enables them to specialize and gain experience in a particular field, such as:


  • Oncology (cancer)
  • Cardiovascular care (heart) and pulmonology (lungs)
  • Geriatrics (elderly health)
  • Orthopedics (bone, joint, and spinal issues)
  • Neurology (brain health)
  • Sports medicine
  • Clinical electrophysiology
  • Pediatrics (children's health)


Although certification is not essential, it opens up more prospects for physical therapists. A qualified physical therapist near you must have a doctoral degree in physical therapy, have at least 2,000 hours of clinical experience, and pass a certification exam to become board-certified.


What are the various kinds of physical therapy?


Physical therapy can be carried out in varied ways to cater to every patient's diverse physical well-being needs. It is pivotal in helping patients regain their regular body movements, and thanks to technological advancements, its efficacy has only been rising. However, the core principles and types of physical therapy have remained consistent. Here are six types of such treatments that you can opt for based on your particular needs:


  1. Neurological physical therapy: This specialized form can help patients recover from neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease, strokes, and spinal and brain injuries. It employs gradual, mild physical exercises to enhance mobility and coordination, significantly improving the patient's autonomy.
  2. Occupational physical therapy: This therapy focuses on work-related activities. Physical therapists often prescribe it after non-accidental workplace injuries. It can also be carried out as a best practice in general, in occupations that can be hard on the body. For example, through physical therapy, manual laborers can be taught to use proper lifting techniques, emphasizing using the knees rather than the back. This therapy enhances core and upper body strength and promotes overall physical well-being as well.
  3. Pediatric physical therapy: Pediatric physical therapy addresses the unique growth and mobility needs of infants, toddlers, and adolescents. It deals with various issues like genetic conditions, congenital disabilities, injuries, limb disabilities, and trauma to the head. Early intervention through pediatric physical therapy is essential for healthy development.
  4. Geriatric physical therapy: This type of therapy addresses mobility and movement issues in the elderly, mitigating problems related to conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and certain cancers. It employs exercises to maintain fitness and alleviate pain, ensuring a more active and pain-free lifestyle.
  5. Hand physical therapy: This therapy primarily targets the upper arm and hand, assisting patients recovering from arm injuries or arthritis. It involves hand exercises to restore the full range of motion.
  6. Rehabilitative physical therapy: This therapy focuses on post-surgery recovery, particularly after major surgeries. It commences in the hospital and continues at home. Mild exercises are used to regain strength and reduce pain, restoring full mobility.


Despite their differences, these various forms of physical therapy offer patients a path to recovery and better physical well-being.


What happens in a physical therapy session?


Typically, doctors and other healthcare providers refer patients to physical therapists. 

A therapy session usually begins with a physical examination to better understand your problem. The physical therapist studies your walk, balance, muscle strength, and range of motion. Following that, they could incorporate a combination of the following into your treatment plan:


  • Exercising
  • Stretching
  • Using different equipment
  • Other hands-on techniques like soft-tissue massage, joint manipulation and mobilization, and friction massage


The aim is to restore functionality by working on movement and increasing motion range in particular body parts. Regular physical therapy sessions can minimize your need for medical prescriptions, surgery, additional physical therapy, or all three.


Physical therapists use hands-on massage to mobilize the inactive muscles, joints, and soft tissues, promoting blood flow and reducing pain. Your therapist may assist you in moving your joints and muscles with the help of some stretches to increase your range of motion and improve flexibility. Additionally, they use their interpersonal and motivational skills to help you progress with the treatment with faith and confidence.


How do you find a qualified physical therapist near you in Saint Petersburg, Florida?


Are you looking for pain management, mobility, and muscle-strengthening therapies? A physical therapist can be the ideal match for you. The first step is determining which physical therapy subspecialist can help with your condition or injury. Once you have done that, locating such in-network professionals can take time and effort. This is where Zocdoc comes to your rescue!

Register for a free Zocdoc account and enter the specialty in the search bar to get started. Our advanced search criteria, including symptoms, doctor specialties, location, date, and time, will help narrow your search. Afraid of the treatment cost? Worry not! Zocdoc allows you to enter your insurance provider and plan to locate doctors who accept it. If you need help with your plan details, use the Zocdoc insurance detector to identify your insurance. 


The results page will list all the providers in your vicinity. Every professional on Zocdoc has a personal profile that is unique to the individual. You can click on it to see their educational qualifications, specialization, services offered, interests, the language they speak, gender, and other crucial details. You can also read past patients' verified ratings and reviews on the provider's profile, which can help make an informed decision. Depending on availability, some providers may take appointments on the weekends or after office hours. Some physical therapists may also provide video consultations. Look for a purple video icon on the provider's profile to book an online consultation. 


Booking appointments with a physical therapist near you on Zocdoc is simple, secure, and free!


Statistics related to physical therapy in Florida, USA


The U.S. Department of Labor presents reports on currently active physical therapists in the USA and Florida. The figures for the same remained at around 238,800 in 2021 in the nation. Meanwhile, Florida had about 14,830 physical therapy professionals in 2020.


A 2022 research article published on Frontiers mentions the prevalence of lower back pain in Florida and the challenges the patients face. Almost 84% of adults had low back pain (LBP). While physical therapy can help combat it, several factors were found to affect a person with LBP's ability to get physical therapy care in Florida. Three main aspects that may function as barriers are: 


(a) Logistical limitations (access to childcare, location of residence)

(b) Amount of time devoted to the therapy

(c) Frequency of the patient's activities


The Florida Department of Health says that accidental injuries are the fourth most common cause of death in Florida after heart disease, cancer, and stroke. This data is primarily for people aged between 1 and 44. In 2019, Florida's age-adjusted injury rate for all injuries was nearly 9% higher than the national average. For accidental injuries, Florida's injury rate was about 12.57% higher than the national average and 5.66% higher for injuries resulting from violence. 


Sources


WebMD

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Stanford Medicine

Verywell Health

ONet OnLine

Frontiers

Florida Department of Health

Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

Med1Care


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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