RESOURCES
Find clear answers to common questions about insurance, our philosophy, working with athletes, and what to expect at STL Physical Therapy.
How We Handle Insurance
STL Physical Therapy is an out-of-network clinic, which means we’re able to provide care based on your goals — not what an insurance company is willing to approve.
Many clients still use their benefits through self-submitted reimbursement, and we provide all the documentation you need. Working out-of-network allows us to:
- Spend more one-on-one time with you.
- Fully customize your plan without visit limits.
- Blend rehab and performance training without restriction.
- Help you progress faster with more effective sessions.
If you have questions about reimbursement or navigating your benefits, we’re happy to help.
Return-to-Play
Athletes don’t just need to be told they’re ready to return — they need to see it for themselves.
Our return-to-play training:
- Replicates the real demands of the athlete’s sport
- Uses objective testing through VALD technology
- Provides clear metrics to show when an athlete is or isn’t ready
Our goal is to build athletes who are 100% confident in their ability to return to sport safely and at full capacity.
For Parents
Most parents don’t realize that traditional, insurance-based PT clinics aren’t built for youth athletes.
They’re limited by insurance rules, lack of sport-specific equipment, and rarely offer the one-on-one coaching needed to truly prepare a kid for the demands of their sport.
Insurance aims to get kids “back to baseline,” but in many cases, baseline is what contributed to the injury in the first place.
At STL Physical Therapy, we take a different approach:
- Dedicated 1-on-1 coaching
- Sport-specific equipment
- Movement-quality programming
- Enough time to build real strength and confidence
Our goal isn’t just to get athletes back —
it’s to return them better than they were before.
Our Origins
Traditional clinics have drifted away from true, client-centered care.
Insurance restrictions force them into cookie-cutter treatments, symptom-chasing programs, and rushed visits where patients bounce between therapists, assistants, and techs.
STL Physical Therapy was built to be the opposite:
Fully 1-on-1 care, focused on identifying the root cause, and designed to deliver faster, longer-lasting results through individualized programming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a physical therapist in Missouri?
No. Missouri allows direct access to physical therapy, which means you can schedule an evaluation without a physician’s referral. However, some insurance plans may require one for reimbursement — we’re happy to help you figure out what applies to your situation.
How long does it take to see results from physical therapy?
Most clients begin noticing improvement within the first few visits. Long-term results depend on your condition, consistency, and goals.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide range of orthopedic and sports-related conditions including back pain, neck pain, shoulder injuries, knee injuries, post-surgical rehab, and more.
What do I wear to my appointment?
Comfortable, athletic clothing that allows you to move freely. Shorts, athletic pants, and a t-shirt work great. Please wear clothing that allows us to access the area of your injury or concern — for example, shorts for a knee issue or a tank top for a shoulder issue.
What will my first visit look like?
Your first visit includes a thorough evaluation of your movement, strength, and goals. We’ll develop a personalized plan and begin treatment on day one.
Do you work with athletes?
Yes. We specialize in working with athletes at every level, from youth to professional. Our approach bridges the gap between rehab and performance.
Do you work with non-athletes?
Absolutely. We work with anyone who wants to move better and feel better, whether that means returning to daily activities, staying active, or improving overall quality of life.
How is private pay / out-of-network PT different from traditional PT?
Out-of-network care means your treatment plan is based on your goals, not insurance limitations. You get more time, more personalized care, and a plan built around what you actually need.
Do you accept HSA or FSA?
Yes. HSA and FSA funds can be used to pay for physical therapy sessions at our clinic.
Do you work with youth athletes?
Yes. We work with young athletes to address injuries, build foundational movement skills, and support their development safely.
What sports do you specialize in?
We work with athletes across a wide range of sports including baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, football, tennis, golf, running, volleyball, and more.
Do you have Return-to-Play programs?
Yes. Our Return-to-Play programs bridge the gap between rehab and performance, ensuring athletes are fully prepared to return to their sport with confidence.
