Need an Affordable Rehabilitation Option For Your Achilles? Why Virtual PT Could Be Your Answer

Recovering from an Achilles tendon injury is challenging enough without the added stress of high rehab costs. Many people assume that quality rehabilitation requires expensive insurance plans, fancy equipment, or even in-person sessions to be successful.

But that’s not always the case.

Are In-person sessions a MUST for Physical Therapy?

In fact, I was once one of the more skeptical PTs when COVID-19 hit. Our clinic director informed us that we would switch to a hybrid model and I was hesitant, at first. Fast forward six years later and telehealth has become a staple in the majority of clincis. With the right implemmentation, virtual physical therapy is just as effective as face-to-face sessions and can not only be more convinient but more affordable as well.

Now, don't get me wrong.

A lot of this responsibility comes from your physical therapist teaching the most important skill you can have: self-efficacy. It's why I preach education and make the learning process a habit with all of my patients. The more you know, the more you understand, the more you're able to self-manage your progress.

It's a wild concept, I know.

My Own Achilles Journey: Why I Truly Understand Your Pain

Here's something that sets me apart from many physical therapists treating Achilles injuries: I've been exactly where you are. In 2021, I ruptured my own Achilles tendon playing basketball. Not a partial tear, not tendinitis, a complete rupture that left me wondering if I'd ever play basketball again.

I went through the entire process myself: the initial shock, the surgery, the frustration of early recovery, and the gradual rebuild of strength and explosiveness. But here's what I learned that changed how I treat my patients: recovery isn't just about following a protocol. It's about understanding your body, adapting to setbacks, and building the knowledge to gain your confidence back.

4 months post op - my return to running

I was back to running at 4 months, performing basketball drills at 9 months, and playing competitively again at the one-year mark. More importantly, I dove into all the research I could get my hands on and learned firsthand what works, what doesn't, and how to navigate the mental challenges that come with Achilles recovery.

I'm a strong believer of 'everything happens for a reason' and this platform would be here today if it weren't for my injury. The experience didn't just make me a better clinician, it made me someone who truly gets what you're going through.

Understanding How Traditional Clinics Operate (And Why It Costs So Much)

I've been in the physical rehabilitation world for over 8 years now and it's common practice to see PTs prescribe therapy for two to three times a week, on average. Take into consideration that the average co-pay is between $30 and $60, and, well, you're looking at $90 - $180 per WEEK.

The problem with this approach is, you don't truly require this much supervision.

A good, solid exercise prescription program will progress gradually over weeks. This means, especially in the early stages you'll be doing the same exercises without any new progressions. It's rather common for me to recommend to my patients to schedule appointments with me once a week or every two weeks. This way they can gather plenty of information about what's working or not working, I make modifications, and tell them to keep up with the exercises.

Cash Based Services Can Save You Money in the Long Run

The Real Cost Breakdown: Virtual PT vs. Traditional Clinics

Let's do some simple math. Traditional PT at 2-3 sessions per week with a $45 average co-pay means you're spending $360-$540 per month. Over a typical 3-month rehab program, that's $1,080 to $1,620.

Except, a ruptured achilles doesn't heal in three months. It's normal for the entire process to take anywhere from 9-12 months, on average.

Compare that to my virtual approach: My single session is $55, a 5-session package is $250, and my comprehensive 10-session package is $450. Even if you needed the full 10-session package spread over 3 - 6months, you're saving $630 to $1,170 compared to traditional PT—and that's assuming you have good insurance coverage.

Many of my Achilles clients find that 5-7 sessions over 8-12 weeks gives them everything they need to recover successfully, meaning their total investment is often under $350.

That's what some people spend in just one month of traditional PT.

Why Virtual PT Actually Works Better for Achilles Recovery

The beauty of Achilles rehabilitation is that it's highly movement-based and doesn't require hands-on manual therapy like some other injuries. What you need is expert guidance on exercise progression, load management, and the knowledge to make smart decisions about your activity level.

Virtual sessions allow me to watch your movement patterns in real-time, provide immediate feedback, and ensure you're performing exercises with proper form. Plus, I provide access to PhysioApp on your phone, so you have your personalized exercise program available 24/7.

The convenience factor is huge too. No driving to appointments, no waiting rooms, no scheduling around clinic hours. You can do your session from home, your gym, or wherever you're most comfortable.

What My Virtual Clients Achieve

The results speak for themselves. My virtual Achilles clients consistently return to their desired activities within similar timeframes to traditional PT—often with better long-term outcomes because they've developed genuine understanding of their condition and recovery process.

They learn to recognize the difference between good pain and concerning pain. They understand how to progress their exercises safely. Most importantly, they develop confidence in their body's ability to handle increasing loads and activities. Some even come back and ask me if I'm open to treat other ailments they've had for quite some time.

(Spoiler: I am).

Why Choosing the Right Clinician Matters

I get it. It's tempting to go with what your insurance will pay for, but quality matters. Poor rehabilitation can lead to setbacks, chronic pain, or even re-injury.

Physical therapist guiding Achilles tendon rehab exercises

Investing time in finding a reputable provider who understands Achilles tendon recovery can't be emphazised enough. And, well, who better to choose than a physical therapist who went through the entire process himself?

Now, I'm not here to act like snake oil snailsman. I'm all for patients choosing the route that is best for them. Some prefer the in-person approach, while others revel at the idea of convience and flexibility that my virutaly services offer. Either way, you won't get any pushback from me. Do what you feel is best.

If I can offer one bit of advice: Whether you're considering a nearby clinic or virtual sessions, make sure you ask about:

• Credentials and Experience: Is the therapist specialized in tendon injuries?

• Appointment Style: Will you be getting 45 minutes to one hour of full one on one time?

• Support and Follow-Up: Is there ongoing guidance to track progress?

  
  

Sometimes, spending a little more upfront saves money and frustration down the road.

My Shameless Call To Action

Achilles injuries don’t have to drain your time, money, or patience. With virtual PT, you get personalized coaching, the flexibility to train on your schedule, and the knowledge to stay injury-free for the long haul. I’ve been in your shoes. LITERALLY. I remember limping through the same frustrations and I know how to guide you out of them.

If you’re curious whether virtual PT could be your solution, I invite you to check out my services page or schedule a free consultation.

Resources

Withers, H., Glinsky, J., Chu, J., Jennings, M., Starkey, I., Parmeter, R., Boulos, M., Cruwys, J., Duong, K., Jordan, I., Wong, D., Trang, S., Duong, M., Liu, H., Hayes, A., Lambert, T., Zadro, J., Sherrington, C., Maher, C., Lucas, B., Taylor, D., Ferreira, M., & Harvey, L. (2024). Remotely delivered physiotherapy is as effective as face-to-face physiotherapy for musculoskeletal conditions (REFORM): a randomised trial.. Journal of physiotherapy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2024.02.016.