FAQ
Straight answers,
before you book.
Everything patients ask us about care, costs, insurance, and what to expect. Can't find your question? Call or text 813-978-0020.
Category
Auto Injury & PIP
What is Florida's 14-day rule for auto accidents?
Under Florida's PIP law, you must receive initial medical care within 14 days of your accident to keep your Personal Injury Protection benefits. Care from a chiropractic physician qualifies. Details on our auto injury page.
Does PIP insurance cover chiropractic care in Florida?
Yes. PIP generally covers 80% of necessary medical expenses, including chiropractic care, up to your policy limit, when treatment starts within 14 days of the accident. We verify your coverage before treatment begins.
Do I need a lawyer before I can start treatment?
No. You can start care immediately without an attorney. If you have one, or hire one later, we coordinate documentation and referrals with their office.
What injuries are commonly missed after a car accident?
Whiplash, soft-tissue strains, and disc injuries often produce no symptoms for days or even weeks. An early exam with X-rays documents your condition before symptoms surface, which matters for both your health and your claim.
Can I get treatment if I was a passenger, not the driver?
Yes. Passengers injured in an accident are covered under applicable PIP policies. We help sort out whose policy applies during your first visit.
What is an Emergency Medical Condition (EMC) and why does it matter?
Under Florida PIP law, a documented EMC determination enables access to up to $10,000 in benefits; otherwise your medical benefits are limited to the $2,500 limit. An EMC can be documented in-house at the Physical Medicine Health Center office or referred to a location convenient to you.
Will getting chiropractic care hurt my injury claim?
Getting care actually helps your case! Consistent, documented medical care creates a clear record of your injuries and need for treatment. Gaps in care are what typically raise questions. We document thoroughly from day one.
How long does auto injury treatment typically take?
It depends on your injuries and how you respond. After your exam and X-rays we lay out a plan with a clear schedule, and adjust it with you as you progress.
Do you work with personal injury attorneys?
Yes. We coordinate referrals, second opinions, and documentation with your attorney's office so nothing falls through the cracks.
Category
New Patients & First Visit
What happens on my first visit?
A full history and exam, on-site X-rays when indicated, and an explanation of what we found and what we recommend. You leave knowing the plan and the costs, with no surprises. Typically you can start care during the first visit.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No. Florida allows direct access to chiropractic physicians, so you can book without a referral. (VA Community Care patients need a VA authorization first; we help coordinate that.)
What should I bring to my first appointment?
A photo ID, your insurance card, and any recent imaging or medical reports. After an auto accident, bring your auto insurance and claim information too.
How long is the first appointment?
Plan for about 45 minutes. Follow-up visits are shorter.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing you can move in. Nothing special is required.
How do I book an appointment?
Book online through our scheduling portal, or call/text 813-978-0020.
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Yes, same-day appointments are often available, especially for auto injuries. Call to check today's schedule.
Do you see walk-ins?
Walk-ins are accepted when the schedule allows. Calling ahead guarantees you a slot.
Category
Pricing & Insurance
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most insurance plans, plus auto PIP and VA Community Care. Call 813-978-0020 and we'll confirm your specific plan before your visit.
How much does a visit cost without insurance?
We're pay-per-visit with no packages and no contracts. Costs vary by visit type, so call 813-978-0020 and we'll tell you exactly what your visit would cost before you book.
Is spinal decompression covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan, but insurance often does not cover spinal decompression treatment. We verify your benefits before treatment starts so you know what's covered and what isn't. Call our office today at 813-978-0020 to learn what treatments your benefits cover or what cash prices we currently offer.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we can offer payment plans and we also accept CareCredit. Call us and we'll walk through the options that fit your situation.
Is my copay higher than your cash price?
Sometimes. Specialist copays can exceed our per-visit cash rate. Call us with your copay amount and we'll give you a straight comparison. If you have a high-deductible plan, this is likely the case. You can use your FSA or HSA card. We can verify your costs ahead of your visit by calling 813-978-0020.
Category
Veterans / VA
Are you a VA Community Care Network provider?
Yes. We're enrolled in the VA Community Care Network. Veterans with VA healthcare benefits may receive care at little or no out-of-pocket cost. See the VA section on our services page.
How do I use my VA benefits for chiropractic care?
Call us at 813-978-0020. We'll walk through your eligibility and help coordinate the authorization process with the VA.
Do I need a referral from the VA first?
Yes. VA Community Care requires a referral/authorization from the VA before treatment. We can help you navigate that process.
What services does the VA cover at your clinic?
It depends on your authorization. Chiropractic care is the most common. Call and we'll confirm what your authorization covers.
Category
Chiropractic Care
Is chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care is widely recognized as safe when performed by licensed providers. We examine (and image when indicated) before any treatment, so nothing is adjusted blind.
Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?
Most patients find the adjustment itself relaxing and relieving. A few notice mild soreness afterward, much like the day after a workout, which typically fades within 24 hours. Everyone responds differently, so let your chiropractor know how you feel. That feedback lets them fine-tune your care for the best possible results.
How often should I get adjusted?
There's no one-size answer. Frequency depends on your exam findings, your goals, and how you respond. Wellness appointments tended to range from once a week to once a month and people undergoing active treatment may get a recommendation of up to 3x a week.
Can children get chiropractic care?
Yes. Dr. Baker is trained in Webster technique and all chiropractors receive training in pediatric care. Pediatric adjustments use far gentler, age-appropriate techniques and most commonly don’t involve the pops and cracks you see with adult adjustments.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors are a great choice for musculoskeletal pains and overall wellness. Musculoskeletal complaints include Joint, muscle, and nerve complaints such as back and neck pain, headaches, sciatica, and extremity joints like shoulders, hips, and knees. See conditions we treat.
Will I need X-rays on my first visit?
When your exam indicates it, yes. We take them in-house during the same visit, so there's no separate radiology appointment.
Can I see a chiropractor if I've had back surgery?
Often yes, with modified techniques appropriate to your surgical history. Bring your records and we'll evaluate which techniques or other services that may fit your case.
Category
Spinal Decompression
What is spinal decompression therapy?
A motorized table (the FDA-cleared DRX9000 device) gently stretches the spine, designed to reduce pressure on the discs and nerves in the spine. Non-surgical; results vary.
Is spinal decompression the same as traction?
They're similar but differ in how it's performed: decompression is computer-controlled and uses a highly researched pull/hold/release pattern, whereas traction is a simple pull and can be done by hand or with a simple machine like an inversion table.
Am I a candidate for spinal decompression?
Candidates typically have disc herniations or bulges, degenerative disc disease, stenosis, or sciatica. It is extremely safe and can be used without those injuries as well, so most people are eligible; however, your exam and imaging will lead the decision.
How many sessions does spinal decompression take?
A full program is generally 21 sessions performed twice a week. Most people feel a difference within the first 1-3 sessions and moderate relief between 6-10 sessions. We offer flexible, per-session appointments for people dealing with a chronic disc issue who might only need a few sessions.
Is spinal decompression painful?
Most patients find it comfortable. Many relax or even doze during sessions.
What conditions does the DRX9000 treat?
Herniated and bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and spinal stenosis, once an evaluation confirms decompression fits your case.
Can decompression treat the neck, not just the low back?
Yes. The same FDA-cleared DRX9000 approach can be set up to target the cervical (neck) spine instead of the low back. Whether it is appropriate for your neck is decided by an evaluation, and results vary. See our post on cervical decompression.
What does a low-back (lumbar) decompression session feel like?
You stay fully clothed with a support harness around the pelvis and torso while the table runs slow, gentle traction cycles. Most people describe a comfortable, rhythmic stretch and relax through the session, which runs about 30 minutes. More in our post on lumbar decompression.
Category
Shockwave Therapy
What is shockwave therapy?
There are different devices that may get lumped together as shockwave therapy (ESWT). At PMHC we use an acoustic wave therapy device (Storz Medical D-Actor) that uses sound waves, not electrical shock, to increase local circulation and recovery. Short, non-invasive sessions; results vary.
Is shockwave therapy the same as ultrasound?
No. Shockwave delivers higher-energy acoustic pulses with a different mechanism and does not heat the tissues. Ultrasound therapy provides penetrating heat to reach deeper tissues.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Some patients feel brief discomfort over the treatment area during the session. It's short, and intensity can be adjusted.
How many shockwave sessions do I need?
Typically a short series of 4-6 sessions, with improvements building over two to four weeks. Your plan is set after evaluation.
What conditions does shockwave therapy treat?
Chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions. Plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies, and persistent muscle pain are the most common.
Category
PRP Therapy
What is PRP therapy?
Platelet-rich plasma: a sample of your own blood is concentrated and injected at the injury site to support your body's tissue-repair process.
How is PRP different from a steroid injection?
Steroids suppress inflammation for short-term relief. PRP uses components from your own blood and works by a different mechanism, and is not a steroid.
How many PRP injections will I need?
Often one to four, depending on the area treated and how you respond. We'll set expectations at your evaluation.
Is PRP covered by insurance?
Usually not, but you can always use your FSA or HSA card. Call 813-978-0020 for self-pay details before you book.
What can PRP treat?
Joint pain, tendon injuries, and chronic soft-tissue conditions are the most common applications.
Is PRP painful?
There can be brief injection-site discomfort and short-lived soreness afterward. Most patients tolerate it well.
Category
Massage Therapy
What is the difference between therapeutic and relaxation massage?
Therapeutic massage targets specific injuries and restrictions as part of a treatment plan; relaxation massage is general wellness. Ours is clinical, and it works alongside your chiropractic care.
How often should I get a massage for an injury?
It follows your care plan, often weekly at first, then tapering as the tissue improves.
Does massage help with auto injury recovery?
Yes, soft-tissue work is commonly paired with chiropractic care after a crash.
Category
Neuropathy / Sanexas
What is Sanexas?
Sanexas is a non-surgical, drug-free, in-office therapy that delivers electroanalgesia, low-level electrical signals through pads on the skin. It is offered to help manage chronic nerve-related pain symptoms, not to reverse neuropathy itself, and results vary.
Does Sanexas hurt?
Most people find it comfortable, a mild tingling or pulsing over the treated area. Settings are adjusted to keep you at ease, and you can return to your day afterward.
How many Sanexas sessions will I need?
It is usually done as a series rather than a single visit. Your plan is set after an evaluation and adjusted as you respond, and any change tends to build gradually. Results vary.
Does Sanexas repair nerve damage?
No. Sanexas does not repair or reverse nerve damage. It is a supportive option that may help some people manage nerve-related pain symptoms, and it is not a substitute for professional medical care.
Category
Men's Acoustic Wave Therapy
Is acoustic wave therapy FDA-approved for erectile dysfunction?
Used specifically for erectile dysfunction, it is considered investigational rather than an FDA-approved use. It is offered as a discreet, in-office option after a provider evaluation, with no guarantees and results that vary.
Is men's acoustic wave therapy painful or is there downtime?
Most men feel only a light tapping sensation, and settings can be adjusted for comfort. There are no needles and no medication, so there is nothing to recover from and you can return to your day right away.
How many men's acoustic wave sessions are involved?
It is typically done as a short series rather than a single visit. Your plan is discussed after an evaluation, and any response tends to build gradually. Results vary.
Do I need an evaluation before men's acoustic wave therapy?
Yes. Erectile dysfunction can have underlying medical causes, so a provider evaluation comes first. We discuss whether the therapy is a reasonable option for you and what the alternatives are. It is not a substitute for professional medical care.
Category
Medical Weight Loss
What is GLP-1 medical weight loss?
A medically supervised program that uses a GLP-1 medication, which acts like a hormone that helps control appetite, alongside changes to eating and activity to support weight loss. It works best as one part of a broader plan, and results vary.
Is the medication FDA-approved?
If a compounded medication is used, it's prepared by a licensed pharmacy and is not FDA-approved. Whether any GLP-1 option is appropriate for you is a medical decision made at your evaluation.
Who qualifies for the program?
It is generally considered for adults working toward weight loss who qualify after a screening that reviews your history and goals. It is not right for everyone, and a provider evaluation decides whether it fits your situation.
How do visits work?
The program starts with screening, then dosing guidance and regular follow-up handled by our clinical team. Call or text 813-978-0020 for details before you book.
Category
IV Therapy
What is IV nutrient therapy?
Fluids with vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients delivered directly into a vein so they are absorbed quickly. It is offered as a wellness option, not a treatment for disease.
Is IV therapy safe, and who should check with a provider first?
Most people do fine with it, but if you are pregnant, have kidney or heart conditions, or take medications, check with your provider first. A provider evaluation decides whether it is appropriate for you.
How long does a session take?
Most drips take roughly 30 to 60 minutes, and you can relax during the session and return to your day afterward.
Category
Red Light Therapy
What is red light therapy?
Also called photobiomodulation, it uses low-intensity red and near-infrared light. Research suggests it may support cell energy, blood flow, and help calm inflammation. It is a supportive therapy, not a cure, and results vary.
Does it hurt, and is there downtime?
No. Sessions are painless and non-invasive; most people feel gentle warmth at most. There are no needles or medication and nothing to recover from afterward.
What is it used for?
It is most often used alongside care for chronic neck and back pain, joint discomfort, tendon and soft-tissue irritation, muscle soreness, and arthritis-related stiffness.
How many sessions will I need?
It is usually used as a short series worked into a broader plan, and a treatment takes only a few minutes. Your plan is set after an evaluation. Results vary.
Category
Trigger Point Injections
What are trigger point injections?
A small amount of medication is injected into a tight, irritable muscle knot (a trigger point) to help it release and ease pain. They are commonly used for stubborn neck, back, and shoulder knots.
Do they hurt?
You may feel a brief pinch and a cramp-like feeling as the needle reaches the knot, then some soreness for a day or so. The injection is quick, and most people handle it well.
What is injected?
Often a numbing medication; the aim is to break up the tight band so the muscle can relax. Your provider explains exactly what is used at your visit.
How many will I need?
Sometimes one, sometimes a short series, depending on how many points are involved and how you respond. They work best alongside the rest of your care, and a provider evaluation sets the plan.
Category
Whole-Body Vibration
What does whole-body vibration (Vibraplate) do?
Standing or holding a position on a rapidly vibrating platform makes your muscles tighten and relax many times a second. It is used in a low-impact way to support blood flow, movement, and getting the muscles working, often as a warm-up.
Is it safe?
Most people use it comfortably, but it is not right for everyone. If you are pregnant, have implanted devices, or are managing a medical condition, check with your provider first.
Who is it for?
It is a supportive add-on used alongside other care, often for a gentle warm-up or to get the muscles working, rather than a standalone treatment.
Category
In-Clinic Therapies
What is therapeutic ultrasound used for?
Therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves to send gentle deep heat into soft tissue, which may help ease muscle and joint discomfort and help you move more easily. It is used as part of a treatment plan, not on its own.
What is the flexion-distraction table?
A segmented table that moves while the doctor uses gentle, rhythmic stretching on your spine, with no quick thrust. It is often used for disc-related and sciatic pain and can pair with spinal decompression.
Are these therapies used on their own?
No. They are in-clinic tools worked into a plan made for you and used where they help. A provider evaluation decides what is appropriate for you.
Still have questions?