If you’re a Medicare beneficiary dealing with pain, balance issues, or recovery after surgery, you may be wondering what physical therapy services are covered and how to get started. The good news is that Medicare does cover physical therapy when it’s medically necessary and provided by a licensed therapist.
At Control Physical Therapy, we help seniors and Medicare patients in Tempe, Chandler, and the East Valley recover safely, maintain independence, and stay active. This guide explains how Medicare physical therapy works, what’s covered, and how to begin your treatment plan.
Does Medicare Cover Physical Therapy?
Yes, Medicare Part B covers physical therapy that’s considered medically necessary to treat an injury, illness, or condition. This includes therapy after surgery, joint replacement, falls, or any issue that limits your mobility or daily function.
Medicare covers physical therapy provided in an outpatient setting — such as your home, a hospital outpatient department, or an independent clinic like Control Physical Therapy. Coverage typically includes evaluation, treatment sessions, and progress assessments.
Your plan will pay 80% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet your yearly deductible, while you’ll be responsible for the remaining 20%. If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, that 20% may also be covered.
What Does Medicare Physical Therapy Include?
Medicare covers a wide range of physical therapy services as long as they are prescribed or referred by a physician and considered medically necessary. Common covered services include:
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Manual therapy and joint mobilization for pain and stiffness
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Therapeutic exercise to restore strength and flexibility
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Balance and gait training to reduce fall risk
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Post-surgical rehabilitation after joint replacement or other procedures
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Neuromuscular re-education for coordination and stability
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Functional training for safe walking, standing, and daily activities
At Control Physical Therapy, we create personalized, one-on-one treatment plans designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and stay active longer.
Are There Limits on Medicare Physical Therapy Coverage?
In the past, Medicare had strict yearly caps on how much therapy could be covered. Today, those limits have been replaced with thresholds — meaning you can continue therapy beyond a certain amount if your therapist certifies that it’s medically necessary.
For 2026, the combined threshold for physical therapy and speech-language pathology services is approximately $2,330. However, this amount can change yearly, and your therapist will document medical necessity if continued care is required.
At Control Physical Therapy, we track your Medicare benefits throughout your plan of care so you always know where you stand. There are no billing surprises or unexpected coverage gaps.
How to Start Medicare Physical Therapy in Tempe
Starting physical therapy with Medicare is simple. Here’s how the process works:
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Obtain a referral: Most Medicare plans require a referral or prescription from your primary care physician or specialist.
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Schedule your evaluation: Call Control Physical Therapy to set up your initial assessment.
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Benefit verification: Our front desk team will verify your Medicare coverage and explain your out-of-pocket costs, if any.
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Begin treatment: Your therapist will create a personalized plan focused on your goals, mobility, and safety.
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Track progress: We provide regular updates to your referring physician and adjust your program as you improve.
Our team handles all documentation, billing, and coordination with Medicare so you can focus on recovery, not paperwork.
Why Choose Control Physical Therapy for Medicare Patients in Tempe
At Control Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping older adults and Medicare patients regain independence, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. Every session is one-on-one with your licensed therapist — no double-booking, no handoffs.
What makes us different:
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Expert clinicians led by Dr. Gregory McLarty, DPT
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One-on-one sessions tailored to your needs
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Balance and fall prevention programs for seniors
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Post-surgical rehab for joint replacement or orthopedic procedures
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Advanced movement testing using force plate technology
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Locally owned and trusted throughout Tempe, Chandler, and the East Valley
We take pride in providing exceptional care that helps our Medicare patients stay mobile, confident, and active.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a referral to start physical therapy with Medicare?
Yes. Medicare typically requires a referral or prescription from your physician before starting outpatient physical therapy.
Q: How many physical therapy sessions does Medicare cover?
There’s no fixed number, but sessions must be medically necessary and documented. Once you reach the annual threshold, your therapist can justify continued care if needed.
Q: Does Medicare cover physical therapy for balance problems?
Yes. Medicare covers therapy to improve balance, coordination, and strength, especially if you’ve had a fall or are at risk of falling.
Q: What if I have a Medicare Advantage plan?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans also cover physical therapy, but networks and authorization requirements may differ. We’ll verify your benefits before your first visit.
Start Your Medicare Physical Therapy Journey Today
If you’re ready to regain strength, stability, and confidence, Control Physical Therapy in Tempe is here to help. Our experienced team will handle the paperwork, verify your benefits, and create a customized program that fits your needs and goals.
Call today at (480) 474-4921 to schedule your free estimate!