Coronavirus concerns have led the physical therapy profession into new ways of providing care. Telehealth is live audio and video conferencing using platforms including Zoom, FaceTime and Skype. Although I do not believe telehealth is as effective as in office physical therapy, it may be the best option for you. There are many valid reasons to request a telehealth physical therapy visit; you or others that reside in your house are in poor health, you are quarantined as you have been exposed to someone with Covid-19 (coronavirus), you do not have current childcare, or you are concerned and feel it is most appropriate to self-isolate.
The patients that I believe are most appropriate for telehealth are those that are in the early to mid-phases of a physical therapy program, or those individuals that have a sudden onset of pain or limitation and struggle to manage their day to day activities. Discontinuing care early following orthopedic surgeries such as knee replacement or rotator cuff repair may result in long term limitations. For most patients late in rehab, they can continue their current home exercise program and add repetitions or resistance as exercises get easier. Patients with chronic limitations that are managing day to day activities with minimal difficulties may also find it best to delay physical therapy sessions until after Covid-19 concerns subside.
OrthoKnox is providing telehealth services and most insurance providers are covering physical therapy telehealth services temporarily due to the Covid-19 pandemic.