Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia is a direct access state, meaning you can see a physical therapist without a doctor's referral for an initial evaluation and the first 30 days of treatment. If treatment extends beyond 30 days, we will happily coordinate with your physician to obtain the necessary authorization.

We offer a wide range of evidence-based treatments, including Manual Therapy, Therapeutic Exercise, Dry Needling, Post-Surgical Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, Cupping, and Balance/Gait Training. Your therapist will customize a plan using the modalities best suited to your specific injury.

No. While both use thin needles, they are based on very different philosophies. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine seeking to balance energy ("Chi"). Dry needling is based on modern Western medicine and anatomical research, specifically targeting trigger points in muscles to relieve pain and improve range of motion.

Yes! We are in-network with most major commercial insurance providers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Cigna, United Healthcare, and Medicare. We recommend calling our front desk at (571) 774-6378 so we can verify your specific benefits before your first visit.

Costs vary depending on your insurance plan. You may be responsible for a copayment (a flat fee per visit), coinsurance (a percentage of the visit cost), or costs applying to your deductible. We will clearly explain your financial responsibility after verifying your benefits.

Yes, we routinely treat patients involved in motor vehicle accidents (MVA) and workers' compensation claims. Please bring your claim number, adjustor's contact information, and any relevant legal contact info to your first appointment.

We offer affordable self-pay (cash) rates for patients without insurance or those who choose not to use their insurance. Please contact our front office for our current evaluation and follow-up session rates.

Your Initial Evaluation will last approximately 60 minutes. Standard follow-up treatment sessions typically last 45 minutes to an hour. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality time with your therapist.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows your therapist to easily access the area being treated. For example, wear athletic shorts if we are treating your knee, or a tank top for shoulder issues. Sneakers or supportive athletic shoes are strongly recommended.

We strictly enforce a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you must cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice so we can offer that time to another patient in need. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a cancellation fee.

Frequency of treatment varies widely based on your specific diagnosis, surgical protocol, and goals. Most patients attend PT 2 to 3 times per week initially. Your therapist will recommend a specific frequency during your first evaluation.

Absolutely. Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions we treat. We use a combination of core strengthening, manual therapy, and movement re-education to alleviate pain and prevent future episodes.

Yes. Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc or muscle tightness compressing the sciatic nerve. Our therapists are experts at identifying the root cause of the compression and using targeted exercises and stretches to relieve the nerve pain radiating down your leg.

Yes! Post-surgical rehabilitation is a major focus at Nova Prime PT. We work closely with your orthopedic surgeon and strictly follow their established protocols to ensure a safe, optimal recovery for joint replacements, ligament reconstructions, rotator cuff repairs, and spinal surgeries.

Yes, we treat athletes of all levels—from weekend warriors to high school and collegiate competitors. We focus not only on healing the immediate injury (sprains, strains, tendinitis) but also on sports-specific biomechanics to prevent re-injury and improve performance.

We are conveniently located in Chantilly, VA, easily accessible from Route 50, Route 28, and the Dulles Toll Road. Our address is 14101 Sullyfield Cir, Suite 100, Chantilly, VA 20151.

Yes, we understand our patients have busy schedules. We offer early morning and evening appointments during the week, as well as select Saturday morning hours. Please call to check our current availability.

Continuity of care is highly important to us. We make every effort to schedule you with the same physical therapist for your entire plan of care. If scheduling conflicts arise, you will always be seen by a fully licensed PT who has thoroughly reviewed your chart.