FAQs

Where exactly is OSO Physical Therapy in Alameda?

OSO Physical Therapy is located at 1726 Clement Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, inside The Training Station fitness facility — approximately 10 minutes from Downtown Oakland via the Park Street or High Street bridge, and 15 minutes from San Leandro. We serve patients from Alameda, Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro, Emeryville, Piedmont, and the wider East Bay.

What should I expect during my visit?

During your visit your Physical Therapist will be with you the entire time.  We will conduct a full evaluation, and work together to determine the best possible treatment for you moving forward. This will typically entail some sort of manual therapy to help improve pain and mobility, movement pattern analysis and retraining, and a focus on functional strengthening to help you reach your goals and return to your activities stronger and healthier than before. 

Do I need a referral for physical therapy in Alameda, CA?

No. California law allows direct access to physical therapy, meaning you can begin treatment at OSO Physical Therapy in Alameda without a physician referral. If you plan to seek reimbursement from your insurance, requirements vary by plan — contact your insurer to confirm your out-of-network benefits.

What about personal training? 

We love working with goal oriented people of all ages and are happy to offer our strength and wellness packages. 

Can I see you if I have Medicare?

Medicare patients are unfortunately not permitted to pay for Physical Therapy services out of network.

 What if I do not plan to use my insurance? 

We believe everyone should be able to access high quality physical therapy care regardless of insurance status.  For patients who are not using their insurance We offer straightforward pricing without hidden fees or complex insurance processes. Whether it’s your first visit (evaluation), a follow-up visit or a wellness and performance session, you can get 60 minutes of undivided attention from a Board-Certified Orthopedic Specialist.

 What makes OSO physical therapy Alameda different?

OSO is the only physical therapy clinic in Alameda where both treating therapists hold OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) board certification, a credential held by fewer than 6% of US physical therapists. Every session is a true 60-minute, one-on-one appointment with a doctoral-level specialist. No aides, no double-booking, no 15-minute "real PT" windows between technician exercises, and no doing exercises on a sheet of paper that were handed to you. 

Does OSO treat back pain and knee pain in Alameda?

Yes — back pain and knee pain are two of OSO's core specialties. For back pain, we treat disc herniations, sciatica, lumbar strains, spinal stenosis, SI joint dysfunction, and post-surgical recovery. For knee pain, we treat ACL and ligament tears, meniscus injuries, patellofemoral pain (runner's knee), knee osteoarthritis, and total knee replacement rehabilitation

Does OSO Physical Therapy accept insurance?

OSO operates as an out-of-network provider and does not bill insurance directly. We accept payment at time of service, and after each session we provide a superbill that PPO plan holders can submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement. We accept FSA and HSA cards. Many patients find that the faster recovery timeline (fewer total visits) makes OSO cost-competitive with in-network clinics when total visit cost is compared. See our insurance guide for more detail. Always verify with your own insurance for coverage estimates as each plan varies greatly. 

What do I do with a superbill?

We will send you an electronic copy of the billing and diagnosis codes used for your visit. You will be able to submit that directly to your insurance company. Many PPO's have out of netwoork (OON) benefits for physical therapy. Please contact your insurance provided directly if you have questions regarding your OON benefits. 

How many physical therapy visits will I need?

Most OSO patients reach their goals in 1 session per week, and our average duration of care is 8 visit. Patients who are post surgical typicaly progress over the same physiological timeline, but with fewer visits. Because each session is 60 minutes of focused, specialist-level care, outcomes are faster than at high-volume clinics where 2-3 visits per week for 6+ weeks is standard. Your first visit will include a comprehensive assessment and an honest projection of your specific timeline. 

Still have questions?

We know choosing a physical therapist is a big decision. If you didn't find your answer here, let's talk. No pressure, no strings—just a 15-minute conversation to help you find the optimal path forward.

Please feel free to reach out via text/call at 510-915-1448, or via email - dan.hirai@osophysicaltherapy.com.