Higher Physio

Higher Physical Therapy was created by Julie Zapata, a New York State licensed physical therapist with 22 years in practice. The practice describes itself as a hybrid practice and is a general practice for adults and children who have a physical need. The stated aim is to help New Yorkers stay active, rely less on pain medication and avoid surgery where possible.

A first visit includes a full body evaluation, a movement assessment, hands-on treatment, a customized home program and a follow-up plan. New clients also have a conversation about their current problem and health history, along with a physical examination. Bringing x-rays, MRIs, diagnostic reports and referrals is recommended. Standard sessions run about an hour and clients keep the same therapist for each visit. For people unsure whether physical therapy suits them, there is a low-priced mini consultation and a half-hour Discovery Visit with a physical therapist, which includes a physical therapy diagnosis, a mini treatment, home exercise advice and an estimate of the care needed.

Hands-on methods include myofascial release, which works with connective tissue, and functional manual therapy, which combines manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, functional movement and patient education. The practice also uses Postural Restoration (PRI) approaches, which aim to balance the two sides of the body through reciprocal motion. Kinesio taping is available. Low level laser therapy and Winback Tecar therapy, which the practice describes as raising tissue temperature to help ease muscle tension and improve circulation, are offered under laser and Winback therapy. Laser therapy is listed for knee, hip and ankle osteoarthritis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, sciatica and lymphedema.

Acupuncture is offered as part of physical therapy care, with a comprehensive body evaluation and pain management. A regular acupuncture session is 60 minutes and there is a monthly Medicare concierge acupuncture session. Facial acupuncture is described on the blog as typically six to twelve sessions of about 30 minutes to an hour each. Custom PRI orthotics are made from a foam impression system and are designed to be more flexible than traditional orthotics. Yoga with Masako is a slow, methodical strength class that ends with stretching and relaxation, open to all ages.

The practice is an approved Medicare provider and accepts Medicare Advantage PPO, POS and Open Access plans, along with secondary insurance that supplements Part B. It is out of network with most insurers, though many offer out-of-network benefits, and it bills insurers directly where the carrier allows. It does not accept Medicaid, No Fault MVA insurance, Fidelis or Health First. Private pay is accepted by credit card, cash and check, and physical therapy services are listed as eligible for FSA, HSA, HRA, DCFSA and LCFSA reimbursement. Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, closed Sunday.

Treatment starts by reducing pain, then finds and corrects the underlying cause, then builds strength and resilience. The practice sees therapy as a team effort between therapist and patient, where active participation is expected.