Virtual physical therapy delivers expert care through secure video visits and digital tools, so you can start and stay consistent with treatment from home. This guide explains how online PT works, which conditions it can help, the tech you need, and why research supports it. You will also learn when a hybrid plan, a combination of online and in-clinic care, may be the best fit for you.
Reviewed and contributions made by VP of Clinical Development Thomas Denninger
What is Online Physical Therapy?
Online physical therapy, also called virtual physical therapy, telehealth physical therapy, or telerehabilitation, is expert care delivered to you by secure video wherever you may be. You meet one–on–one with a licensed physical therapist, just like an in–clinic visit, and receive a full evaluation, a personalized plan, live coaching, and progress checks. It is physical therapy from home designed around your goals, your space, and your schedule.
What you can expect
- A thorough evaluation by video, including movement tests that are safe to perform at home.
- A clear plan with targeted exercises, pain relief strategies, and daily activity tips.
- Real–time coaching to check form and adjust intensity.
- Digital tools such as Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) to track home exercise and communicate with your care team.
- The option to pursue hybrid physical therapy, combining online and in–clinic visits when hands-on care may be helpful or necessary.
Why people choose it
- You want expert help without a commute.
- Your schedule is tight and shorter virtual visits fit better.
- You need to begin quickly after a new pain or diagnosis.
- You prefer coaching that shows you how to succeed at home, not only in the clinic.
If you or a loved one has new pain, stiffness, or trouble moving, reach out and we will set up an initial evaluation with a licensed physical therapist, online or in-person. We will build a personalized plan around your needs. In most cases, no doctor’s referral is needed to get started.
Is Virtual Physical Therapy Effective?
Yes, virtual therapy has been proven to be highly effective. Research shows online PT can produce outcomes similar to traditional in person therapy for a range of musculoskeletal and neurologic problems when care is well designed and supervised by a clinician. Patients often report high satisfaction and better follow through with home exercise.
What the evidence tells us
- Outcomes for knee replacement recovery can be comparable to in person rehab when telerehabilitation is used with guided exercise and follow up.
(2024 systematic reviews: PubMed, Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research). - For long standing low back pain, supervised remote programs can reduce pain and improve function.
(Examples: 2025 randomized controlled trial, PubMed; 2024 systematic review, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders; 2024 systematic review, PubMed). - Across conditions, studies frequently find telehealth PT to be feasible, safe, and cost conscious.
(APTA summaries: Feasibility and effectiveness, Telehealth advocacy overview, PTJ telehealth research highlights, and adherence benefits, ChoosePT).
How an Online Physical Therapy Visit Works at ATI
Initial evaluation
Your first visit is a full evaluation by secure video. Your clinician will listen to your story, review your medical history, and assess movement. You may be asked to perform simple motions, such as bending, reaching, or walking. You will discuss your goals and outline a plan.
Personalized plan
You will receive a clear plan that fits your space and equipment. Expect targeted exercises, self–care strategies for pain relief, and daily activity tips. Your therapist will update the plan as you progress.
Live coaching
During follow up visits, your therapist checks form, adjusts exercise intensity, and answers questions. You will practice movements that transfer directly to daily life, such as getting out of a chair or lifting safely.
Digital support and tracking
With Remote Therapeutic Monitoring, you can message your care team between visits, creating dialogue between you and your care team about any questions that arise between sessions. You can also log your home exercise and share simple progress metrics. This helps you stay accountable and lets your therapist fine–tune the plan sooner.
Online or hybrid care, your choice
Hybrid care combines hands-on treatment at the clinic with online visits for coaching and progress checks. Many people like this approach because it saves time while keeping the right balance of clinic-based care.
Conditions That Fit Well with Online Physical Therapy
- Back and neck pain.
- Shoulder, hip, and knee pain, including overuse aches.
- Post surgical recovery once you are cleared for movement.
- Balance and gait concerns that are safe to practice at home.
- Arthritis and joint stiffness.
- Tendinopathy and common sports injuries.
- Pelvic health for appropriate conditions.
- Dizziness and some vestibular symptoms that respond to guided maneuvers and balance training.
If your clinician sees signs that you need in person testing or hands-on care, we will help you plan the right next steps, including a clinic visit when needed.
What You Need at Home
- A smartphone, tablet, or computer with camera and internet.
- Enough open floor space for safe movement.
- A sturdy chair or countertop you can use for support when needed.
- Light equipment only if your plan calls for it, for example small weights.
- Good lighting so your therapist can see your movement clearly.
Online or Hybrid, How to Choose
- Start online when pain limits travel, your schedule is tight, or you want fast access to expert guidance.
- Go hybrid when you want hands-on treatment for part of your plan, plus online check–ins to save time and keep momentum.
- In–clinic first when you have red flag symptoms, a recent injury that needs hands-on testing, or equipment that is only available in the clinic. Your therapist will advise you.
If you or a loved one has new pain, stiffness, or trouble moving, reach out and we will set up an initial evaluation with a licensed physical therapist, online or in-person. We will build a personalized plan around your needs. In most cases, no doctor’s referral is needed to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does telehealth work for physical therapy?
Yes, for many conditions. Research shows virtual physical therapy can deliver similar pain and function outcomes to in–person care when sessions are supervised, exercises are appropriate, and follow–up is consistent.
What if I do not have equipment at home?
Most plans use body weight, household items, and a sturdy chair. Your therapist will adapt your plan to your space and the resources available to you.
Is online physical therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and location. Our team can help you understand your benefits before you begin.
Can you still check my form on video?
Yes. Your therapist will cue posture, alignment, and technique. You may be asked to adjust the camera for the best view.
What if I feel worse after a session?
Soreness can happen when you begin a new activity. Sharp pain or dizziness is a stop sign. Pause, note what you felt, and contact your therapist for guidance.