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315 verified Physical Therapists in Tampa, 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 10/05/2026
Availability last updated 10/05/2026
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
So nice and easy - Jun 21, 2024 by Kelly L.Click to read more
Miami, FL
Accepts Medicare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait timeExpertise in underactive thyroid + 9 more
Next available: today
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
made Me feel very comfortable and at ease. Looking forward to working with her more in the future l! by KHClick to read more
North Miami, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi! I'm a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Florida. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Samford University and have been in the healthcare field for over 12 years. I provide a thorough assessment, diagnosis, and an ind...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 22
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.33
·3 reviews
They racial profiled me. It was a horrible experience . I walked in and the secretary , without touching her computer , looked me up and down and said “ you don’t have an appointment with us”. In disbelief and embarrassed with the patients waiting for their appointments , I said “ excused me ?” Y...Click to read more
Hallandale Bch, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Tetyana Gurzhi is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner focused on providing compassionate, personalized care to adults. She takes the time to listen to each patient, understand their individual health concerns, and develop a practical care plan tailored to their needs. Tetyana emphasizes preventive care,...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Miami, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Bob (Anupam K. Mohanty, M.D.), is a Board-certified doctor of Internal Medicine and specialist of Liver Disease. He is an Associate Professor of Medicine who gained international recognition as an author in the New England Journal of Medicine and as a collaborator with NBC television drama, "Hou...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Homestead, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure ·
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Dr. Misael Gonzalez, MD is a family medicine physician in Miami, FL and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Instituto Superior De Ciencias Medicas De Santiago De Cuba in 1990. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Coral Gables Hospital and Cleveland Cli...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Geriatrician (Virtual)
Key Largo, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in lower back pain + 9 more ·
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Dr. Inna Yaskin, DO, CMD is a highly experienced physician specializing in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Preventive & Obesity Medicine. With more than 20 years of experience in medicine, Dr. Yaskin is dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized care to adults of all ages, with pa...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jan 2
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Mount Carmel, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic non-alzheimer's dementia
Next available: Sun, Oct 11
Physical Therapist
2.5 mi · 4150 N Armenia Ave, Ste 102, Tampa, FL 33607
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Tim Dorion is a physical therapist who grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. He earned a Master's degree from Florida State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He has practiced physical therapy in Australia, New Zealand, and across the Un...Click to read more
Physical Therapist (Virtual)
Tampa, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Tim Dorion is a physical therapist who grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. He earned a Master's degree from Florida State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He has practiced physical therapy in Australia, New Zealand, and across the Un...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
5.00
·21 reviews
Amazing experience. Felt very heard during my appointment. - Aug 21, 2024 by Elizabeth B.Click to read more
0.5 mi · 101 N Franklin St, Ste A, Tampa, FL 33602
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Persis Puello is a dedicated primary care sports medicine physician specializing in treating active adults and youth with nonoperative solutions for musculoskeletal conditions. Her passion lies in helping individuals maintain their active lifestyles through comprehensive care. Dr. Puello earned ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
2.5 mi · 502 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33609
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
4.5 mi · 4541 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33611
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Chiropractor
5.00
·2 reviews
Dr. Silver was helpful in not only identifying my problem areas but took the time to explain why I felt the way I did and how my spine impacted my problem areas. I really appreciated the time he took in setting up an individualized care plan for me and what would help get me better. by MBClick to read more
7.5 mi · 10081 E Adamo Drive, Tampa, FL 33619
Accepts Cigna, Medicare, UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Silver Faust is a native of Sarasota, Florida. He completed his early education at Sarasota High School and went on to attend Florida Southern College, where he graduated with a degree majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the prestigio...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·1 review
Great service. She puts care over profits!! by KGClick to read more
7.5 mi · 1211 Tech Blvd, Tampa, FL 33619
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
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
Chiropractor
8.5 mi · 8730 Fountain Ave, Tampa, FL 33615
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Jakob “Jake” Johnson earned his Doctor of Chiropractic and Bachelor of Science degrees from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. He is trained in diversified adjusting, Thompson Drop, Activator technique, extremity adjusting, and spinal decompression, with additional certification ...Click to read more
Physical Therapist
1.00
·1 review
16 mi · 10311 Cross Creek Blvd, Ste E, Tampa, FL 33647
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 1 more
Accepting new patients
Physical Therapist
16 mi · 2874 Roosevelt Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33760
Accepts Medicare + 4 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Lawrence Lester is a physical therapist specializing in diagnosing and treating conditions such as back and neck pain, herniated discs, muscle strain, and foot pain. He also assists patients with post-operative mobility. Dr. Lester currently practices at Clearwater Physical Therapy in Clearwate...Click to read more
Physical Therapist
17.5 mi · 2818 Cypress Ridge Blvd, Ste. 100, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 1 more
Accepting new patients
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
13 mi · 6901 Simmons Loop, Ste 201, Riverview, FL 33578
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
14 mi · 13837 Circa Crossing Dr, Lithia, FL 33547
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
16 mi · 2805 54th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33714
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
16 mi · 2805 54th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33714
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Physical Therapy Practice
4.64
·11 reviews
17 mi · 23097 Tabak Ln, Land O' Lakes, FL 34639
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
The H2 Health Family is the fastest growing therapy destination for patients across the country. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel the difference. Locations offer a unique blend of services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and specialty therapy programs tailor...Click to read more
Trauma Surgeon
4.50
·213 reviews
Very pleased. Dr. and staff were professional, friendly and caring by Wayne B.Click to read more
18 mi · 2553 Windguard Cir, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward H. Becker is a Baltimore native who graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in his class with a degree in biological sciences from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He continued his education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received multiple awards for academ...Click to read more
Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon
4.92
·48 reviews
Good doctor he empathize with your symptoms try the best to help you out - Jun 12, 2025 by Carmen L.Click to read more
18 mi · 2553 Windguard Cir, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in fracture/dislocation treatment pelvis/hip/femur + 11 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Christopher T. Donaldson is a general orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic and open repair, reconstruction and revision of simple to complex shoulder & elbow conditions. A Johnstown, Pennsylvania native, Dr. Donaldson completed his medical doctorate at Penn State’s College of Medicine...Click to read more
Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon
4.92
·48 reviews
Good doctor he empathize with your symptoms try the best to help you out - Jun 12, 2025 by Carmen L.Click to read more
18 mi · 2553 Windguard Cir, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in fracture/dislocation treatment pelvis/hip/femur + 11 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Christopher T. Donaldson is a general orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic and open repair, reconstruction and revision of simple to complex shoulder & elbow conditions. A Johnstown, Pennsylvania native, Dr. Donaldson completed his medical doctorate at Penn State’s College of Medicine...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
19 mi · 2595 Tampa Rd, Ste J, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 1 more ·
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**Please be advised that this practice does NOT prescribe controlled substances.** Dr. Noushin Yazdani is a General practitioner. Dr. Yazdani trained in internal medicine in New York and Arkansas. She earned her medical degree from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, South Ca...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.74
·23 reviews
Overall experience was great. The waiting time to see the doctor was a little bit more than I expected. But it was great - Sep 17, 2026 by Anneleen F.Click to read more
21.5 mi · 10875 Park Blvd, Seminole, FL 33772
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Heron earned her biology degree from USF Tampa and began her healthcare career as an EMT with Pinellas County EMS. She later completed a master s in biomedical sciences at USF Morsani, followed by medical school at NYIT COM with training in Rural Medicine and Global Health. She completed her Fam...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.97
·29 reviews
Great customer service. Fast and family friendly. by RHClick to read more
New Port Richey, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Jithu started her clinic to pursue her passion in the medical field and assist those in her own community at affordable prices, so that everyone can receive quality health care. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the School of Medical Education and holds a Master's in Family Health Nursing from t...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
4.97
·29 reviews
Great customer service. Fast and family friendly. by RHClick to read more
25 mi · 5328 Trouble Creek Rd, New Port Richey, FL 34652
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Jithu started her clinic to pursue her passion in the medical field and assist those in her own community at affordable prices, so that everyone can receive quality health care. She earned her Bachelor's degree from the School of Medical Education and holds a Master's in Family Health Nursing from t...Click to read more
Chiropractor
5.00
·1 review
Great experience would recommend to anyone. - Aug 20, 2025 by Ethan F.Click to read more
33 mi · 1965 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Nat Bretz, DC at Swan City Chiropractic is dedicated to providing skilled, personalized chiropractic care in Lakeland, Florida. Dr. Bretz was trained at Palmer College of Chiropractic and utilizes Diversified, Thompson, Gonstead, Activator, and Flexion Distraction techniques depending on the ind...Click to read more
Chiropractor
35 mi · 3633 Cortez Rd W, Ste A9& A10, Bradenton, FL 34210
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 2 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Felicia was born in North Carolina and raised in sunny South Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Community Health from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2014, followed by her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida in 2017. During her time at Palmer, Dr...Click to read more
Chiropractor
5.00
·17 reviews
They are both best! Thorough, thoughtful and professional! by SDClick to read more
35 mi · 3633 Cortez Rd W, Ste A9& A10, Bradenton, FL 34210
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Originally from Orlando, Florida Dr. Kessler is a Board-Certified Chiropractic Physician with a Doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Florida. Dr. Kessler is a dedicated and versatile Chiropractic healthcare provider with extensive experience for prevention, care and rehabili...Click to read more
Chiropractor
5.00
·2 reviews
Office staff helped with paperwork and doctor was thorough with tests and xraysClick to read more
39 mi · 8466 Northcliffe Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34606
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. More is a chiropractor committed to holistic wellness. Born and raised in Dubai, UAE, with Indian roots, she had always been drawn to natural healing methods. Inspired by her parents’ belief in holistic medicine, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition at Iowa State University and g...Click to read more
Chiropractor
39 mi · 8466 Northcliffe Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34606
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
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)
Sarasota, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Originally from Germany, Johanna pursued her nursing education in the U.S. before earning her Master's in Nursing from Walden University. With experience spanning both hospital and community clinic settings, she provides compassionate care to patients of all ages. Outside of work, Johanna enjoys sta...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
42.5 mi · 2801 Fruitville Road, Unit 140, Sarasota, FL 34272
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Originally from Germany, Johanna pursued her nursing education in the U.S. before earning her Master's in Nursing from Walden University. With experience spanning both hospital and community clinic settings, she provides compassionate care to patients of all ages. Outside of work, Johanna enjoys sta...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·15 reviews
I have been going to Tanya at Azalea Health and Wellness for a year for medical weight loss and have lost 27 lbs she is super affordable for what she offers and highly recommend by RJClick to read more
Longwood, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
********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 + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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
Physical Therapist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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
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Frequently asked questions

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

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Physical Therapist in Tampa, 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 Tampa who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


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

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Tampa 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 Tampa?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Physical Therapists in Tampa and book appointments instantly. You can search for Tampa 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 Tampa?

When you search for Tampa 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 Tampa who match your preferences.


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

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


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

You can use Zocdoc to find Physical Therapists in Tampa 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 Tampa?

Physical Therapists in Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa who sees patients during the weekend?

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


Who is a physical therapist?


A physical therapist is an experienced and certified medical professional who uses specially designed equipment and exercise regimens to treat irregular bodily functions. They evaluate the patient's condition, such as disease, disability, or injury, and provide appropriate and personalized treatment. They are knowledgeable about the human body's biomechanics.


Physical therapy is a possible treatment option for various health conditions that helps restore and strengthen the body's function and mobility. Physical therapists often work in sync with a medical team of other specialties in hospitals, rehab centers, sports and fitness centers, offices, and schools.  


What are the various types of physical therapy?


Physical therapy, often referred to as PT, encompasses a broad range of subspecialties, each designed to cater to the unique needs of patients. PT is an essential field of healthcare that aids in recovery from injuries, surgeries, and various health conditions. Let's delve into some of the primary types of physical therapy subspecialties:


Orthopedic physical therapy: This specialization targets individuals with musculoskeletal issues, such as joint problems, fractures, or muscle injuries. Orthopedic physical therapists employ techniques like joint mobilization, strength training, and therapeutic modalities (such as hot and cold packs) to enhance patients' musculoskeletal function.


Pediatric physical therapy: Focusing on children's motor skills, balance, and strength, pediatric physical therapists assist in the development of young patients. They work with children facing developmental delays, genetic disorders, congenital disabilities, acute injuries, and orthopedic disabilities.


Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation: Patients suffering from heart and lung conditions like heart disease and pulmonary fibrosis benefit from this specialization. Cardiovascular and pulmonary therapists help improve patients' endurance and functional independence to enhance their overall quality of life.


Physical therapy for age-related conditions: As individuals age, they may encounter health issues like arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, and balance problems. Physical therapists specializing in age-related conditions aid in increasing strength and mobility to promote an active lifestyle.


Physical therapy for neurological conditions: These physical therapists focus on rehabilitating patients with neurological disorders such as spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and stroke. They address mobility challenges, balance issues, muscle loss, and visual impairments, empowering patients to adapt to and manage their disabilities effectively.


These distinct subspecialties demonstrate the versatility of physical therapy in addressing a wide range of patient needs. Physical therapists specializing in these fields play a significant role in facilitating recovery, improving physical health, and enhancing their patients' overall quality of life.


Occupational therapy vs. physical therapy


Physical and occupational therapy share many similarities but have distinct differences in their approach to a patient's rehabilitative care. One fundamental difference is that physical therapy improves patients' ability to move their bodies. Occupational therapy, on the other hand, focuses on improving the patient's ability to perform activities in their day-to-day life. Besides, physical therapy's foundation is in bodily rehabilitation, whereas occupational therapy is in mental healthcare and physical rehabilitation. 


Occupational therapy heavily focuses on adapting, modifying, or changing the daily activities an individual is required to or wants to do. At the person's skill level, an occupational therapist might help an individual improve their fine motor skills (small movements made with their upper body). These movements are necessary for daily activities such as picking up a toothbrush, brushing their teeth, using a phone, or driving. For individuals with mental health-related issues, an occupational therapist might improve their skills by increasing positive coping strategies. This allows them to function in their daily lives.


What are a few of the ailments that physical therapists treat?


Physical therapy is a non-invasive rehabilitative discipline that improves your health and quality of life. It is a combination of therapies that includes stretching, massage, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and specific exercises.


Because of various treatments, the list of conditions treated by a physical therapist is extensive. It includes neurological disorders such as Huntington's disease and Parkinson's disease, genetic or musculoskeletal disorders, sports injuries, or typical issues such as dizziness, headaches, and back and neck pain. 


They can also treat various spinal conditions, such as degenerative disc disorder, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, sacroiliitis, and sciatica. Physical therapy can also help manage other diseases such as arthritis, muscular dystrophy, osteoporosis, obesity, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, and carpal tunnel syndrome.


Why is physical therapy necessary?


Physical therapists are well-versed in the human body; hence, if there is any deficiency in the body's movements, they can identify the root cause and treat it. After an injury or post-surgery, specific areas of the body can weaken and require some strengthening to work as close to normal. You can target these areas in physical therapy and relieve stress.


Physical therapy is one of the most effective solutions for a stress-free recovery, particularly in post-operative care. This is because physical therapists know the body's limitations after a surgical procedure and can work towards a successful outcome. The treatment regimen specifically targets the weakened areas and treats the pain source to improve the body's functioning and mobility.


How do you prepare for a physical therapy appointment?


If you have an illness or injury and experience pain or trouble with functional movement, you may benefit from the expert care of a physical therapist near you. The first session with a physical therapist is called an initial evaluation. During this session, they will try to learn about your health condition, previous level of functionality, and how it affects your daily life. After that, they will take specific measurements of the impairments causing the problem and create a treatment plan. 


Before your initial evaluation, you should write down essential facts about the history of your condition to avoid forgetting or overlooking anything. Some checklist questions can be:

  • When and how did your disorder begin?
  • Before your injury or disorder, what was your functional mobility status?
  • How often do your symptoms recur?
  • How is the condition evolving?
  • What feels relaxing or distressing in terms of your disorder?


Also, remember to carry your past medications list and other past surgeries or procedures information. Given your extensive movement and need for easier access to your target regions, ask the physical therapist what you should wear and if there is space to change.


During the initial examination, they will take common measurements to understand your condition better. These are palpation, range of motion (ROM) measurements, strength tests, functional mobility, balance, and neurological screening tests. Once the exam is complete, the physical therapy treatment plan starts.


How to find the best physical therapists near you in Tampa?


Have you recently had a sports injury or an old injury causing pain and discomfort? Are you recovering from surgery and want to improve mobility and reduce pain? If so, a good physical therapist can provide the best treatment and exercises to enhance your quality of life. With Zocdoc, you can easily find the best physical therapist in Tampa, Florida.


Perform a search mentioning your location (Tampa, Florida), doctor specialty (physical therapist), insurance plan, and desired appointment date. A comprehensive list of medical and healthcare professionals will appear based on your search criteria. If you need help with your insurance plan, use the Zocdoc insurance detector. At Zocdoc, transparency is of utmost value. Hence, each physical therapist's profile will include a brief introduction, educational qualifications, practice location, visit reasons, and, most importantly, patient reviews and ratings. 


Additionally, you may filter the results by gender, language, hospital affiliations, and whether or not they treat children. Video appointments are also available with some therapists. You can book one by looking for the purple video icon on the physical therapists' profiles or filtering the video appointment selection. 


With Zocdoc, you can book an appointment during, before, or after office hours, depending on the availability of the physical therapist. You can also book appointments during weekends or holidays if the PT permits.


Booking appointments with physical therapists near you on Zocdoc is 100% free, easy, and secure!


Physical health statistics in Tampa, Florida


As per data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021), Florida had the fourth highest employment level for physical therapists in the U.S., around 13,220. Further, the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) in 2020 noted that around 24% of the population in Florida was suffering from arthritis. 


According to data released in 2021 by the National Osteoporosis Foundation and Milliman firm, over 144,000 medicare beneficiaries in Florida suffered around 172,500 osteoporotic fractures in 2019. Out of these, approximately 19% of them died within 12 months. The Milliman Report ranked Florida with the highest rates of osteoporotic fractures and tied it for the highest rate of additional fractures in the U.S.


Sources


American Bone Health

International Spine, Pain & Performance Center

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

America's Health Rankings

Verywell Health

XCell Orthopaedics Physical Therapy


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.