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Exton PA, 19341 (map)
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Understanding Your Insurance

Helping you navigate and understand your coverage

For specific questions, please call us directly at 484.341.8598

At The Wellness Center, we are dedicated to providing quality care and transparent financial policies. To ensure clear communication regarding your financial responsibilities, please review this very brief explanation about insurance terminology to better understand how insurance coverage works. Please see below for a general understanding of insurance coverage for medical care

Insurance Terms

To help you understand your insurance policy better please review the terms and descriptions below

Deductibles

A deductible in medical insurance is the amount of money you must pay out of your own pocket for healthcare services before your insurance starts to pay.

Here’s how it works:
– Suppose your deductible is $1,000.
– That means you must pay the first $1,000 of your medical bills yourself each year.
– After you meet that deductible, your insurance will begin covering a portion of your medical costs (often with coinsurance or copays, depending on your plan).

Important notes:
– Not all services count toward the deductible. Some plans cover things like preventive care (e.g., annual checkups, screenings) before you meet your deductible.
– The deductible resets every year, usually on January 1st.

Example:
You have a $1,000 deductible.
– You go to the doctor and get a test that costs $600 — you pay the full $600.
– Later, you need a procedure that costs $1,500.
– You pay the remaining $400 of your deductible to reach $1,000.
– Your insurance pays part of the rest (e.g., 80%), and you pay the other part (e.g., 20%) depending on your coinsurance.

Copays and Coinsurances

Here’s a clear explanation of copay and coinsurance, and how they differ once the deductible is met:

Copay (Copayment):
A copay is a fixed dollar amount you pay for a specific healthcare service, regardless of the total cost of the visit or treatment.
– Example: You might pay $25 every time you visit your primary care doctor, or $50 for a specialist, even if the full visit costs more.
– In rare circumstances copays may apply immediately, even before your deductible is met, depending on your plan.

Coinsurance:
Coinsurance is a percentage of the cost of a covered service that you pay after you’ve met your deductible.
– Example: After meeting your deductible, your plan might cover 80% of a service, and you pay the remaining 20%.
– This means the amount you pay depends on how expensive the service is.

Copays and Coinsurance amounts will vary depending on the network status of the provider you are seeing, even within your own policy. Your policy will have In Network benefits and Out of Network benefits. These are often different and it is important to know the network status of the provider you are seeing. For a list of carriers that our office is In Network with, please see the Network Status section a little further down on the page.

Out of Pocket Maximums

The out-of-pocket maximum is the most you will have to pay for covered healthcare services in a single year under your insurance plan. Once you reach this limit, your insurance company pays 100% of the costs for covered services for the rest of the year.

What Counts Toward It?
Your out-of-pocket maximum includes:
– Deductibles (what you pay before insurance starts helping)
– Copays (fixed fees for visits/services after deductible is met)
– Coinsurance (your percentage of costs after deductible is met)

What Doesn’t Count?
– Monthly premium payments (your regular insurance bill)
– Non-covered services (things your plan doesn’t include)
– Out-of-network costs, unless your plan covers them

Example:
– Deductible: $1,000
– Coinsurance: 20%
– Out-of-pocket max: $6,000

You pay:
– The first $1,000 (deductible)
– Then 20% of additional covered medical bills until you’ve paid a total of $6,000
– After that, insurance covers 100% for the rest of the year

Allowed Amounts

The allowed amount (also called eligible expense, negotiated rate, or maximum allowable charge) is the maximum amount your insurance company will consider reasonable and pay for a covered service.

It’s the amount your insurance plan and provider have agreed to charge for a specific service — not necessarily the same as the amount billed by the provider.

Key Points:
– If your provider is in-network, they’ve agreed to accept the allowed amount as the full charge for a particular contracted amount (you still pay your share, like a copay, deductible, or coinsurance).
– If your provider is out-of-network, you’ll be billed for the difference between the provider’s charge and the insurance allowed amount.

Example:
Let’s say:

Your provider charges $200 for a visit.

Your insurance plan’s allowed amount for that service is $120.

You’ve met your deductible and have 20% coinsurance.

You would pay 20% of $120 = $24, and the insurance company would pay $96.
If the provider is out-of-network, you might also have to pay the $80 difference between the billed charge and the allowed amount.

Why It Matters:
Understanding allowed amounts helps you:

Know what you’ll owe for services

Avoid surprise bills

Make informed decisions about in-network vs. out-of-network care

In Network

A provider is considered in-network when they have a contract with an insurance company to provide services at pre-negotiated (discounted) rates. They agree to accept the insurance plan’s allowed amounts as a fully allowable charge, generally less than what the provider charges. In Network Providers cannot bill the patient beyond the allowed amounts unless the services are simply non-covered services. Covered and Non-Covered services are listed below. Please review the chart to know exactly what your insurance carriers Covers and Does NOT Cover. Covering Chiropractic does not mean that every service is covered. To avoid surprise bills, we’ve tried to list out what our experience has been with various services we offer and how insurance carriers tend to cover them. However, each policy is unique and the convenient chart we’ve created is not a guarantee of coverage or not.

Seeing an in-network provider means that the provider is approved by your insurance plan, and your care will be covered at a higher benefit level — meaning lower costs to you.

The Good:
– Providers are usually listed in your insurance directory
– Faster reimbursements from insurers, which means claims process faster and you’ll know your responsibility faster
– Predictable fee schedules, our office can usually predict what you’ll owe
– Lower costs — copays, coinsurance, and deductibles are usually lower
– No balance billing — you won’t be charged beyond what your plan allows for covered services. However, if your plan does not cover a service, you’ll be responsible for the full fee to the provider directly.
– Simplified billing — we handle all of the insurance paperwork for you
– Better coverage — services are more likely to be covered

The Bad:
– More administrative work for your provider like pre-authorizations, claim submissions, appeals and other administrative work may discourage providers from being In Network. However, we are still committed to providing you with the high quality of care that we offer.
– Limited flexibility in pricing or service models. Sometimes, as an In Network provider, we are limited by the insurance policy dictating what services we can provide, how many visits we’re allowed to service, and what conditions are considered medically necessary to be treated by conservative care. As your medical provider, we do not allow the insurance carriers to dictate what we deem medically necessary. We create treatment plans tailored to you, based on approaches we trust to be effective. If your insurance policy denies our plan, modifies our plan, or otherwise changes the plan we have created for you, then we will work with you to find a solution to what the insurance allows and what is necessary for healing. However, our office is still committed to providing you with the high quality of care that we offer! Thankfully, our office offers flexible payment plan options to assist with the financial burden of wanting the exceptional quality of care that we offer while needing to work within a budget, getting a denial, or a partial coverage from your plan.
– Referrals — HMO plans will generally require a referral from a Primary Care Physician. We will not be able to successfully bill your insurance and receive payment without a referral from your PCP if you have an HMO policy. You will need to see your PCP first and they will need to write you a referral to be treated at our office. However, all other plans like PPO’s, EPO’s. and others generally do not require a referral. If a referral is required by an HMO plan and your PCP will not refer you here, we will still work with you to get you the care that you need at an affordable cost.

Summary:
Being in-network helps both providers and patients by offering cost control, access, and predictability — but can come with trade-offs in flexibility and payment. For patients especially, staying in-network generally means better coverage and fewer financial surprises. Being In Network is not a guarantee of payment or coverage. Please know that if your insurance denies your In Network coverage, limits what is allowed, or modifies what they deem medically necessary, we still accept your insurance, we will use your in network benefits, and we will work with you to find a financial solution that fits your families situation to provide you with access to the high quality medical care we offer here.

Out of Network

A provider is out-of-network when they do not have a contract with a patient’s insurance company. This means they are not bound by the insurance plan’s rates or billing rules, and they may set their own prices for services.

For Patients:
Seeing an out-of-network provider means the provider is not contracted by your insurance plan, so your insurance may: Pay less, or Not cover the service at all, depending on your plan.
Patients often have to pay more out of pocket when choosing out-of-network care.

The Good:
– Greater provider autonomy — more control over treatment plans and business policies. The insurance carrier has no say in how the provider decides to treat your condition. The provider is not limited by what is approved and is not restricted by any arbitrary insurance guidelines giving your treatment plan more flexibility to provide you with exactly what you need.
– Less administrative burden — fewer restrictions, authorizations, or insurance paperwork, freeing up your doctor to be able to provide you with care and not be bogged down with unnecessary and restrictive paperwork.
– More choices — patients generally have the freedom to see any provider they prefer, regardless of network.
– Specialized care — patients get access to unique services or experts not available in-network
– Shorter wait times — it’s often easier to get in quickly with out-of-network providers

The Bad:
– Out of Network providers are not listed in insurance directories. You may not know that there is such a high quality option to solve your medical problem because the insurance has not listed the provider on their directory.
– Higher fees — providers can charge full rate without being restricted by insurance contracts. While this also comes with higher quality, that’s not always the case. At this office, we strive for excellence no matter what insurance carrier you have. If we happen to be out of network with your plan, you can be confident that you will receive the highest quality of care we offer everyone else.
– Increased patient confusion — about costs, coverage, and reimbursement. We strive for transparency when it comes to billing. This section is designed to address the most common questions to insurance coverage. However, if you have a question, please ask sooner rather than later. We will try our best to answer your questions and address your concerns so that there are no surprises.
– Balance billing — since the provider is not restricted by a contracted rate you will be billed the difference between provider charges and insurance allowed amounts. This may seem confusing as the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that you receive in the mail may be different than what your bill is from our office. If your insurance carriers allows a certain amount for a particular service this does not mean that the out of network provider is required to accept the discounted rate. Expect to be billed the full amount of what the provider charges when seeing an out of network provider.
– Lower reimbursement — if the insurance pays at all, it’s usually a smaller portion. Out of network benefits are often different than In network benefits. We will try our best to give you an expectation of that difference but it is important to know your policy as you are ultimately responsible for the financial costs of treatment.

Summary:
Seeing an out-of-network provider can offer patients more flexibility and access to care they trust — but it often comes at a higher financial cost. Providers benefit from autonomy but may face more challenges while working with patient budgets. If we happen to be Out-of-Network with your policy, we still accept your insurance, we will use your out of network benefits, and we will work with you to find a financial solution that fits your families situation to provide you with access to the high quality medical care we offer here.

Chiropractic Coverage

Know what your insurance really covers

Know What Your Insurance Really Covers

Chiropractic care is listed as a covered benefit on most health-insurance plans—but that doesn’t mean every chiropractic service is paid for. Here’s why:

  • Different services = different codes.
    Each treatment or exam has its own billing code, and insurers approve (or deny) payment code by code.

  • Coverage varies by plan.
    Even if “Chiropractic” appears under your benefits, specific services—such as new-patient exams, therapies, or corrective exercises—may be excluded.

  • Example: Medicare & Medicaid.
    These plans pay for spinal adjustments but do not cover the standard new-patient exam (billing code 99202). The visit is still required—it’s just not reimbursed.


Your next step

We’ve put together a simple, at-a-glance chart that shows which common chiropractic services are usually covered—and which ones aren’t—across major insurers. Review it below before your appointment so there are no surprises at checkout. If you have questions, our front-desk team is happy to help.

Network Status

We accept all major carriers for insurance and are In Network with most. If we happen to be out of network, we still accept your insurance, we just utilize your out of network benefits.

NOTE

Just because we may be Out of Network with your insurance does not mean we will not accept your insurance. We will accept your insurance and bill them for the services we provide while utilizing your Out of Network Benefits. 

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In Network

List of insurance carriers that our office is In Network with
  • Blue Cross Blue ShieldIncluding out of state BCBS plans like Capitol BCBS, BCBS of Illinois, Horizon BCBS of NJ, etc.
  • AetnaIncluding Meritain Health
  • United Health CareIncluding Surest, AARP, Golden Rule, UMR, Oxford
  • Cigna
  • Geisinger
  • Veteran's AdministrationThrough the Veteran's Administration Community Care Network
  • MedicareIncluding medicare supplemental policies
  • MedicaidIncluding Keystone 1st, Aetna Better Health, United Health Care Community Plan, UPMC, Jefferson Health Plans, Health Partners
  • Auto Insurance Major MedicalAll carriers
  • Worker's Compensation Major MedicalAll Carriers

OUT of NETWORK

List of insurance carriers that our office is Out-of-Network with
  • Independence Blue Cross
  • Independence Personal Choice
  • Independence Keystone Health Plan East KHPE
  • Independence Administrators
  • Independence Keystone 65
  • Independence Medicare
  • The "Independence" Network for Chiropractic care is closed in our area. We would like to be In Network, but are denied access. Please write to your insurance carrier so that more patients can get access to the great healthcare options we provide. Again, we will still see you and we still accept your insurance, we will simply be utilizing your Out of Network benefits for payment.

Billing Policies and Procedures

Transparent financial policies designed with your budget in mind, next steps, and what to expect

At our chiropractic office, we are committed to helping our patients navigate the insurance process as smoothly as possible. As a courtesy, we submit claims to your insurance provider on your behalf. Once submitted, claims typically take a few weeks to process, depending on the insurer. During this time, we monitor the claim’s progress and, if necessary, file disputes or appeals to ensure that your benefits are properly applied. We actively advocate for appropriate reimbursement and strive to maximize your insurance coverage.

However, it is important to understand that your insurance company makes the final decision about what is covered and how much they will pay. Once processing is complete, they determine the amount they will cover and the amount you may still owe, which may include copays, deductibles, coinsurance, or non-covered services.

We do our best to provide you with an accurate estimate of what you may owe based on the information provided by your insurance plan. That said, these are only estimates.

If your insurance company processes your claim differently than expected, this may result in a remaining balance. This is not an error on our part, but rather a reflection of how your insurance carrier determined coverage.

Ultimately, you are responsible for any balance left unpaid by your insurance company. If your estimate differs from the final outcome, it means the insurance policy processed the claim in an unexpected way that was outside of our control.

We’re always here to help explain your benefits and answer any questions you may have about your coverage or billing details.

To help you better understand how insurance billing works, we’ve provided a few sample documents below. These examples are meant to give you a general idea of the types of paperwork you may receive from our office and your insurance company, as well as a basic overview of how claims are processed.

Please keep in mind that these are illustrative examples only. Every patient’s financial responsibility will vary based on their individual insurance policy, the services provided, and how the insurance company processes the claims.

Take a moment to explore the documents below for a clearer picture of what to expect throughout the billing and insurance process.

Services we Provide

Here is a look at all of the different services we offer and a description of what they are, why they may be necessary, and what to expect if they are included in your treatment plan.

Billable Codes and Their Descriptions

These are the descriptions of services which have billable codes to insurance polices. Please note, just because you have Chiropractic coverage does not mean that every billable code is covered. Coverage of a service is different than coverage of a provider type. While Chiropractic is the covered provider type, checking with your insurance to see what specific services are covered will help you make more informed decisions. For your convenience, we've added a list of billable services along with their CPT codes for you. We encourage you to contact your insurance to verify what codes are included under your plan.

New Patient Exam - (CPT Codes 99202, 99203, 99204)

Overview: New Patient Exam (Chiropractic Context)

CPT codes 99202, 99203, and 99204 are part of the Evaluation and Management (E/M) code set. These codes represent office or other outpatient visits for the evaluation and management of a new patient. A new patient is defined as someone who has not received professional services from the provider or another provider of the same specialty in the same group practice within the past three years.

In Chiropractic offices, these codes are billed when a doctor of chiropractic (DC) performs an initial assessment that includes a comprehensive history, physical exam, clinical decision making, and medical documentation prior to beginning treatment. There are different levels of exams, all with different charges. See the descriptions below for a better understanding of each code.

CPT 99202 – Level 2 New Patient Exam (Straightforward Complexity)
Description: A problem-focused visit. Typically involves straightforward medical decision making. Usually 30-45 minutes spent face-to-face with the patient.

In a Chiropractic setting:
Used for a minor or self-limited musculoskeletal complaint.

Example: A patient presents with mild neck discomfort after sleeping awkwardly. The chiropractor may take a basic history, perform a limited physical exam (e.g., postural exam, palpation, range of motion), and determine that no imaging or referrals are needed. The case requires minimal diagnostic complexity or risk.

CPT 99203 – Level 3 New Patient Exam (Low Complexity)
Description: Involves low complexity medical decision making. Requires 30–45 minutes of face-to-face time with the patient.

In a Chiropractic setting:
Commonly used in routine musculoskeletal complaints, such as acute low back pain, headaches, or moderate sprains/strains. The chiropractor gathers a detailed history, performs a moderate-depth physical exam, and may consider differential diagnoses, but with low risk of complications. May include:

– Orthopedic/neurological testing,
– Spinal and postural evaluation,
– Determination of functional limitations,
– Establishing a short- to mid-term care plan,
– May involve review of x-rays or lab results if available but generally does not require immediate referral or complex diagnostics.

CPT 99204 – Level 4 New Patient Exam (Moderate Complexity)
Description: Requires moderate complexity medical decision making. Typically 45–59 minutes of face-to-face time with the patient.

In a Chiropractic setting:
Reserved for more complex or chronic conditions such as lumbosacral radiculopathy, sciatica, disc herniation, or multi-region pain complaints. The chiropractor performs:

– A comprehensive history including multiple body systems and psychosocial factors
– A thorough physical exam, including detailed orthopedic/neurologic testing
– May consider ordering imaging (e.g., x-rays, MRIs) or referrals to other specialists
– A moderately complex treatment plan, possibly involving multiple techniques, home care instruction, and coordination with other providers
– Often used when the patient has multiple complaints or significant functional impairments.

Important Notes (Specific to Chiropractic)
CPT 99201 has been deleted as of 2021. The remaining codes (99202–99205) were updated to emphasize medical decision making (MDM) or time spent, rather than strictly documenting history and physical exam bullet points.

Chiropractors are only reimbursed for certain codes depending on the patient’s insurance (e.g., Medicare for example only covers spinal manipulation – 98940–98942 – and NOT 99202–99204).

When billing these codes, detailed documentation is required to justify the level of complexity claimed.

If a new patient exam includes manual therapy or adjustments, those services must be billed separately using codes like 98940 (Chiropractic manipulation), 97140 (manual therapy), etc.

Our office bills $150, $220, or $350 for a New Patient Exams depending on the level complexity described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Established Patient Exam - (CPT Codes 99212, 99213, 99214)

Overview: Established Patient Exam (Chiropractic Context)
CPT codes 99212, 99213, and 99214 are part of the Evaluation and Management (E/M) service codes used to bill for office visits with an established patient—that is, a patient who has received professional services from the chiropractor or another chiropractor in the same group within the past three years.

These codes are used when the chiropractor performs a re-evaluation or follow-up examination, usually as part of a care plan, when new complaints arise, or when progress needs to be documented.

CPT 99212 – Level 2 Established Patient Exam (Straightforward Complexity)
Description: For minor or self-limited problems. Requires 10–19 minutes of face-to-face time or straightforward medical decision making (MDM).

In a Chiropractic setting:
Used when a patient returns with mild symptoms, or the chiropractor is checking progress on a minor injury, these codes are used. Example: A patient with mild mid-back stiffness being seen after an initial treatment for follow-up care.

Visit may involve:
– Brief history update
– Focused physical exam (e.g., palpation, range of motion)
– Minimal to no diagnostic testing or external coordination
– Typically no changes to the treatment plan unless symptoms slightly evolve.

CPT 99213 – Level 3 Established Patient Exam (Low Complexity)
Description: For problems of low to moderate severity. Requires 20–29 minutes of face-to-face time or low complexity MDM.

In a Chiropractic setting:
This is the most commonly used E/M code for chiropractors. Example: A patient presents with recurring low back pain, neck strain, or joint dysfunction requiring reassessment.

Visit includes:
– Detailed history and functional status update
– Musculoskeletal and possibly neurological exam
– Evaluation of treatment effectiveness
– Consideration of modifying the care plan (e.g., new therapy techniques, exercises)
– Chiropractor may address one or two body areas, assess treatment response, and determine if continued care is justified.

CPT 99214 – Level 4 Established Patient Exam (Moderate Complexity)
Description: For moderate to high severity problems requiring more thorough assessment. Requires 30–39 minutes of face-to-face time or moderate complexity MDM.

In a Chiropractic setting:
Used for more complex or chronic musculoskeletal conditions, especially if multiple body regions are involved, or if treatment has plateaued or worsened. Example: A patient with chronic sciatica and new symptoms (e.g., radiating pain, tingling) requiring deeper investigation.

Chiropractor may:
– Perform a comprehensive re-evaluation
– Review or order imaging (e.g., x-ray, MRI)
– Conduct orthopedic/neurologic tests
– Coordinate with other providers (e.g., PCP, orthopedist)
– Develop a revised care plan possibly involving longer-term rehab, referrals, or advanced soft tissue work

Important Considerations in Chiropractic Care
These E/M codes are not used every visit. Typically, chiropractors bill E/M codes when a re-evaluation is medically necessary, such as:
– Patient presents with a new complaint
– Significant change in symptoms or functional ability
– Patient is nearing the end of the care plan and needs a formal discharge or new plan
– If the chiropractor only performs routine manipulation without re-evaluation, only a manipulation code (98940–98942) is billed, not an E/M code.

Documentation is critical—to justify billing these codes, the provider must include:
– History update (subjective symptoms, progress)
– Physical exam findings
– Clinical reasoning and updated care plan
– Billing is NOT time dependent. The billing level is determined by the complexity of medical decision making, regardless of how long it takes the Chiropractor to reach that decision.

Our office bills $70, $100, or $140 for a Established Patient Exams depending on the level complexity described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Chiropractic Manual Joint Manipulation - Spinal (CPT Codes 98940, 98941, 98942)

Chiropractic Manual Joint Manipulation – Spinal
CPT Codes: 98940, 98941, 98942

These codes are used exclusively by Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) and other licensed providers trained in manual joint manipulation techniques to document and bill for spinal adjustments. The official terminology for these services is:

Chiropractic manipulative treatment (CMT); spinal, one to two regions (98940), three to four regions (98941), or five regions (98942)

What is a Chiropractic Manipulation (CMT)?
A chiropractic spinal manipulation involves a high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust technique applied to a spinal joint that is restricted in motion or function, often referred to by chiropractors as a joint restriction. The goal is to restore joint mobility, improve function, reduce nerve interference, and alleviate pain.

CPT codes 98940–98942 are used to report the number of spinal regions treated during a single encounter, not the number of manipulations performed.

Spinal Regions Defined in Chiropractic Coding
There are five spinal regions recognized for coding purposes:
– Cervical (neck)
– Thoracic (mid-back)
– Lumbar (low back)
– Sacral (sacrum)
– Pelvic (often considered separately for coding, e.g., sacroiliac joints)

Each region treated counts once, regardless of how many individual segments (e.g., L4, L5) are manipulated in that region.

Detailed Code Breakdown
CPT 98940
Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment, spinal; one to two regions

When to Use:
Adjustment of 1–2 spinal regions during a single visit.
Example: A chiropractor adjusts only the lumbar and sacral regions due to low back pain.
Clinical Examples:
– Cervicalgia (neck pain) with cervical adjustment only
– Lumbar disc bulge treated with lumbar and sacral manipulation

Documentation Must Include:
Diagnosed subluxations or joint restrictions in those 1–2 regions
Objective findings supporting the need for adjustment
Time/date of service and therapeutic rationale

CPT 98941
Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment, spinal; three to four regions

When to Use:
Adjustment of 3–4 spinal regions in one session.
Clinical Examples:
– Patient presents with headache, thoracic tension, and low back pain. Chiropractor treats cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions.
– Sciatica with lumbar, sacral, and pelvic region involvement

Most Commonly Used Code
98941 is the most frequently billed spinal CMT code in chiropractic offices.

Documentation Requirements:
– Clearly identify all 3–4 spinal regions manipulated
– Clinical necessity for each region (not just treating everything “just in case”)

CPT 98942
Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment, spinal; five regions

When to Use:
Adjustment of all five spinal regions during one encounter.

Clinical Examples:
– A patient presents with full-spine involvement: cervical stiffness, thoracic immobility, lumbar pain, sacral misalignment, and pelvic asymmetry.
– Motor vehicle accident with widespread spinal trauma

Notes:
– This code has higher scrutiny from some insurance carriers due to the comprehensive nature of treatment.
– Must be justified with clear documentation and supportive exam findings for all five regions.

Important Chiropractic Coding Notes
– Do not confuse number of “adjustments” with number of regions. One region = one area, no matter how many segments or adjustments.
– Chiropractic manipulative treatment does NOT include soft tissue work—that’s coded separately (e.g., 97124 for massage or 97140 for manual therapy).
– Medicare requires additional diagnosis codes and documentation to support the presence of vertebral joint restrictions and require an acute injury. An acute injury is defined as symptoms starting immediately or shortly after a specific event.
– Modifiers may be required, especially for Medicare (e.g., AT modifier for active treatment).

Our office bills $50, $70, or $100 for a Chiropractic Manual Joint Manipulation to the Spine depending on the amount of regions manipulated as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Chiropractic Manual Joint Manipulation - Extremity (CPT Codes 98943)

Official Description:
Chiropractic Manipulative Treatment (CMT); extraspinal, one or more regions. This code is used to report manual joint manipulation performed by a chiropractor on extremity joints, which are outside the spinal column—meaning arms, legs, hands, feet, shoulders, hips, etc.

What is “Extraspinal” or Extremity Manipulation?
While most people associate chiropractic care with spinal adjustments, chiropractors are also trained to perform manipulative techniques on joints in the extremities. This is especially helpful for restoring proper biomechanics, improving range of motion, and reducing pain in joints such as:

Shoulder
Elbow
Wrist
Hip
Knee
Ankle
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint)

These techniques involve specific manual adjustments, often with low-force, high-velocity thrusts, to correct joint misalignments, reduce soft tissue irritation, and improve function.

When to Use 98943 in Chiropractic Care
Common Clinical Scenarios:

A patient has shoulder impingement or postural dysfunction affecting scapular motion
Wrist pain from repetitive use or carpal tunnel symptoms
TMJ dysfunction with clicking or jaw deviation
Hip restriction contributing to pelvic misalignment
Ankle instability following a sprain

Documentation Requirements:

Identify the joint(s) treated and the clinical rationale. Show evidence of:
Reduced range of motion
Palpable joint dysfunction or misalignment
Biomechanical abnormality
Include diagnostic codes (ICD-10) that support the treatment (e.g., M25.511 – Pain in shoulder)

Important Notes for Chiropractors
1. Used Independently or With Spinal Codes
CPT 98943 can be billed alone, or in conjunction with spinal manipulation codes (98940–98942).
Example: A chiropractor treats cervical spine (98940) and right shoulder (98943) in the same visit.
Modifier 59 is typically required when billing 98943 with spinal codes to indicate a separate and distinct service.

2. One or More Extremity Regions
This code covers any and all extremity manipulations during a single session.
Whether the chiropractor adjusts one shoulder or both wrists, knees, and a hip, it is still billed as 98943 one time per visit.
Multiple units cannot be billed for multiple regions—only once per encounter.

3. Payer Coverage May Vary
Not all insurance plans cover extremity manipulation the same way they do spinal adjustments.
Medicare, for example, does not reimburse 98943, as it only covers spinal subluxation-related CMT.

Our office bills $50 Chiropractic Manual Joint Manipulation to extremities as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Therapeutic Activities - (CPT Code 97530)

Official Description:
Therapeutic activities, direct (one-on-one) patient contact by the provider (including use of dynamic activities to improve functional performance), each 15 minutes. This code is used to bill for active, functional, movement-based rehabilitation exercises performed under direct supervision to improve a patient’s strength, endurance, range of motion, balance, or coordination, particularly in functional tasks.

In a Chiropractic Setting: What Does 97530 Mean?
In a chiropractic office, 97530 represents hands-on, guided physical rehabilitation where the chiropractor (or a qualified assistant under direct supervision) works one-on-one with the patient to help restore normal movement patterns, particularly after an injury, during recovery, or in conjunction with spinal manipulation. It differs from passive modalities (like ultrasound or massage) by being active and goal-oriented, usually involving movements that simulate real-life or job-specific activities.

Key Characteristics
Active therapy (patient performs movement or tasks)
Dynamic and functional (not repetitive or isolated like general exercise)
Always performed with direct, face-to-face interaction
Documented in 15-minute increments

Examples in a Chiropractic Office
Case 1: Lumbar Strain
The patient suffered a low back strain.
After initial pain management and spinal manipulation (CPT 98941), the chiropractor introduces 97530 to:
Teach hip-hinge mechanics for bending
Practice lifting boxes from the floor safely
Perform step-ups to retrain glutes and stabilize the pelvis

Case 2: Shoulder Injury
The patient has shoulder impingement with scapular instability.
Therapeutic activities might include:
Wall walks for controlled shoulder elevation
Resisted band reaching to simulate overhead work
Weighted object transfer across a table to improve functional range and endurance

Case 3: Balance and Gait Dysfunction
Patient recovering from a fall or vestibular disturbance.
Chiropractor uses 97530 to:
Train single-leg balance
Incorporate obstacle navigation
Simulate carrying groceries while walking

Documentation Requirements
To support billing of 97530, documentation should include:
Functional Goal (e.g., improve ability to lift, walk, reach)
Activity Performed (what movement or task was trained)
Level of Assistance or Cueing Provided
Time Spent (document in 15-minute increments)
Patient Response or Progress

Example note: “Patient performed step-up drills with a 12” box and kettlebell to simulate lifting tasks. Required verbal cueing for hip alignment. Improved with practice. 15 minutes total.”

Therapeutic activities are especially helpful when:
Patient has postural imbalances, movement dysfunction, or recurrent injuries
Chiropractor aims to transition patient from passive to active care
Insurance requires evidence of functional improvement to justify continued care

Our office bills $70 for Therapeutic Activities as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Manual Traction - (CPT Code 97140)

Official Description:
Manual therapy techniques (e.g., mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, manual traction), one or more regions, each 15 minutes

What Is Manual Therapy in Chiropractic?
CPT 97140 covers a range of hands-on, manual techniques that a chiropractor may use in addition to (or instead of) spinal adjustments to:

Mobilize joints
Stretch muscles and fascia
Reduce muscle spasms
Improve circulation and tissue extensibility
Alleviate pain and restore movement

One of the techniques explicitly included under 97140 is manual traction, which is commonly used by chiropractors to relieve pressure on the spine and joints.

What Is Manual Traction? (Chiropractic Focus)
Manual traction involves a chiropractor applying a controlled pulling force to elongate the spine or a joint—usually by hand, without machines or automated devices. This technique aims to:

Reduce compression on spinal discs and nerves
Relieve pressure in the cervical or lumbar spine
Stretch soft tissues and improve joint mobility
Decrease pain, stiffness, or radicular symptoms

Clinical Examples of Manual Traction in Chiropractic Care
Cervical Radiculopathy – Chiropractor performs manual cervical traction to reduce nerve root compression. Gently elongates the neck using sustained hand pressure

Lumbosacral Disc Herniation – Chiropractor applies lumbar traction by stabilizing the pelvis and applying gentle pulling through the legs or lower back. Helps reduce pain radiating into the legs

Postural Dysfunction with Joint Restriction – Traction applied to decompress joint surfaces and restore proper alignment during rehab

Billing and Documentation Requirements
To bill 97140 for manual traction, chiropractors must:

Clearly document:
The specific region treated (e.g., cervical, lumbar)
The technique used (e.g., sustained manual traction vs. mobilization)
Duration: Time spent must be documented in 15-minute increments

One-on-one contact is required:
The chiropractor must be directly involved in performing the technique—no machines (mechanical traction like CPT 97012 is a different code)

Clinical Justification: Must show that traction is:
– Medically necessary
– Not duplicative of other services (e.g., manipulation)
– Targeted to improve function, not just for relaxation

Important Billing Notes for Chiropractors
– Modifier 59 is often required when billing 97140 on the same day as chiropractic manipulation (98940–98942) to indicate it’s a distinct and separate service.
– Cannot bill 97140 for the same spinal region manipulated under 9894x without clear documentation of separate therapeutic intent.
– Example: If you adjust the lumbar spine (98940) and perform manual traction on the cervical spine, both services may be billed with appropriate modifiers.
– Time-based code: Billed per 15 minutes; documentation must reflect total time spent.

Our office bills $50 for Manual Traction as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Therapy for Strength and Range of Motion - (CPT Code 97110)

Official Description:
Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion and flexibility (each 15 minutes), requiring direct (one-on-one) patient contact.

What Is 97110 in a Chiropractic Context?
CPT 97110 is used by chiropractors to bill for active, targeted exercise therapy performed under direct supervision, with the purpose of improving:

Muscle strength
Joint flexibility
Range of motion (ROM)
Muscular endurance

This service is part of rehabilitative or restorative care, typically provided after pain or inflammation is managed, or alongside spinal manipulation to help patients regain function and reduce recurrence of injury. Unlike passive treatments (e.g., massage), 97110 requires patient effort and active movement—usually using bodyweight, resistance bands, weights, or stability tools.

Key Chiropractic Use Cases
1. Strengthening Weak or Inhibited Muscles
After spinal misalignment or injury, surrounding muscles may become deconditioned or neurologically inhibited.
Chiropractors use 97110 to reactivate stabilizing muscles (e.g., multifidus, glutes, deep neck flexors).
Example: Strengthening the core and lumbar stabilizers in a patient with chronic low back pain.

2. Restoring Joint Range of Motion (ROM)
Limited ROM may result from injury, postural dysfunction, or joint fixations.
Exercises focus on controlled movement patterns to lengthen tight muscles and improve joint mobility.
Example: Shoulder flexion exercises post-adjustment for frozen shoulder syndrome.

3. Improving Functional Movement Patterns
Chiropractors often identify movement dysfunctions during biomechanical assessments (e.g., FMS, postural analysis).
97110 is used to retrain proper patterns, such as hip-hinge, scapular control, or gait mechanics.

Documentation Requirements (for Chiropractic Billing)
To properly bill CPT 97110, chiropractors must include:
Therapeutic Goal: What the exercise is designed to improve (strength, ROM, posture, etc.)
Specific Exercises: Name/type of movement (e.g., wall slides, resisted cervical flexion, glute bridges)
Body Region Addressed: Area or joint being treated (e.g., lumbar spine, right shoulder)
Time Spent: Must be in 15-minute increments
Patient Response or Progress: Observations during and after the session

Our office bills $35 for every 15 minutes of Therapy for Strength and Range of Motion as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Therapy for Neuromuscular Re-education NMR - (CPT Code 97112)

CPT Code 97112 – Neuromuscular Re-education (NMR)
Official Description: Neuromuscular re-education of movement, balance, coordination, kinesthetic sense, posture, and/or proprioception for sitting and/or standing activities; each 15 minutes.

What Is Neuromuscular Re-education (NMR) in Chiropractic Care?
97112 is a therapeutic service used by chiropractors to retrain neuromuscular function—the way the nervous system and muscles communicate to create proper movement and posture. It is typically used when there is:

Impaired balance
Poor postural control
Faulty movement patterns
Decreased proprioception (joint position awareness)
Motor control issues after injury

In short, it helps patients “relearn how to move properly” after dysfunction, injury, or neurological interference—often caused by subluxation, chronic pain, trauma, or prolonged compensation.

Key Components of 97112 (as Applied by Chiropractors)
Component Chiropractic Examples
Balance Training – Standing on unstable surfaces after an ankle sprain or spinal misalignment
Proprioception Work – Joint position awareness drills after whiplash or low back injury
Postural Training – Retraining upright spinal posture after forward head carriage or pelvic tilt
Motor Control Drills – Sequenced movement patterns for patients with chronic pain or poor muscle coordination
Gait or Mobility Work – Walking re-education post-injury, with focus on hip/knee/foot movement and stabilization

Clinical Examples in Chiropractic Settings
Example 1: Cervical Proprioceptive Deficit
A patient with chronic neck pain and dizziness (e.g., post-concussion or whiplash). Chiropractor uses:
Laser pointer head tracking on wall target
Controlled cervical ROM with visual feedback
Balance training to retrain cervical proprioception

Example 2: Lumbar Instability After Disc Injury
Patient with chronic low back pain due to poor spinal stabilization. Exercises may include:
Diaphragmatic breathing + core activation (transverse abdominis)
Pelvic tilts on a wobble board
Quadruped “dead bug” exercises to restore lumbar motor control

Example 3: Postural Correction Therapy
Forward head posture with associated thoracic hyperkyphosis. Chiropractor uses:
Wall angel drills
Chin retraction with isometric hold
Balance + scapular coordination training

Documentation Requirements for 97112
To bill CPT 97112 correctly, chiropractors must include:
Neuromuscular Deficit Identified (e.g., balance, proprioception, postural control)
Type of Intervention Used (e.g., balance board, laser tracking, neuromuscular stabilization)
Therapeutic Goal (e.g., improve posture, prevent re-injury, stabilize spine)
Time Spent – billed in 15-minute units
Patient Response or Progress

Our office bills $35 for every 15 minutes of Neuromuscular Re-education as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Massage Therapy - (CPT Code 97124)

What it is:
CPT code 97124 is the official billing code used when a licensed provider—like a chiropractor or a licensed massage therapist working under a chiropractor’s supervision—performs massage therapy as part of your treatment plan.

What Does Massage Therapy (97124) Include? Massage therapy under this code involves therapeutic, hands-on techniques designed to:

Reduce muscle tension and spasm
Improve circulation and healing
Promote relaxation
Support your chiropractic adjustment
Help your body move and function better

These massage techniques may include:
Effleurage: Light, gliding strokes to warm up tissues and promote circulation
Petrissage: Deeper kneading or squeezing of muscles to release tension
Tapotement: Rhythmic tapping or percussion to stimulate muscles
Friction: Circular movements to break up scar tissue or knots
Vibration: Shaking or jostling muscles to release tension

How Massage Therapy Works With Chiropractic Care
In our chiropractic clinic, massage therapy is often used alongside spinal adjustments to:
Loosen tight muscles that may be pulling your joints out of alignment
Prepare your body for an easier and more effective adjustment
Help you heal faster from injuries like sprains, strains, or back pain
Address stress-related tension or chronic muscle tightness that contributes to postural issues

How Is It Billed?
CPT code 97124 is billed in 15-minute increments. If your chiropractor recommends 30 minutes of massage, two units of 97124 will be billed. Typically, the chiropractor at The Wellness Center, Dr. Zappy, will recommend 60 minutes which would be 4 units.

Massage must be medically necessary, not just for relaxation. Your chiropractor will document which muscles or areas were treated and why.

Why Did I Receive Massage as Part of My Visit?
You might have received massage therapy because:
You came in with tight muscles or spasms that limited your movement
Your chiropractor needed to reduce soft tissue tension before adjusting your spine
You have a condition (like sciatica, whiplash, or back strain) that responds well to soft tissue therapy
You’re in the healing phase of your treatment plan, and massage helps restore healthy muscle function

A Note on Insurance
Some insurance plans do cover massage therapy (97124) when it’s ordered by your chiropractor for medical reasons, especially when it’s:
Tied to a diagnosis like muscle spasm, soft tissue injury, or joint dysfunction
Included in a care plan to restore function and reduce pain

Other plans may NOT cover massage, or only allow it under strict guidelines. Our team will help check your benefits and let you know what to expect. We’ve also created some convenient charts for you to reference on this page and in our office.

Our office bills $30 for every 15 minutes of Massage Therapy as described above. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Radiographs (X-Rays) - (CPT Codes vary depending on the region and amount of views)

What Are Radiographs?
Radiographs, commonly known as X-rays, are a safe and quick imaging tool chiropractors use to see inside your body—especially your bones and joints. They allow us to take a picture of your spine and skeletal system to look for:

Misalignments (called Joint Restrictions in chiropractic care)
Spinal degeneration or arthritis
Disc space narrowing
Postural problems
Bone fractures or abnormalities
Evidence of past injuries or trauma

Why Does a Chiropractor Use Radiographs?
As chiropractors, our job is to understand how your spine is functioning. Sometimes, we need more than just our hands and eyes to fully assess what’s going on—and that’s where radiographs come in. We may take X-rays to:

Get a clear picture of your spinal alignment
Check for structural issues before starting treatment
Ensure there are no contraindications (like fractures or bone disease)
Help us develop a safe and effective treatment plan
Track progress over time (in corrective care or postural rehabilitation)

When Are Radiographs Recommended in Chiropractic Care?
We don’t take X-rays on every patient, but we may recommend them if:

You’ve had a recent accident or injury (like a car accident or fall)
You have persistent or unexplained pain
There are signs of bone or joint disease
You’re starting a long-term corrective care program
There’s a history of surgery or spinal abnormalities

What Do Radiographs Show a Chiropractor?
On an X-ray, we can see:

Spinal curvature (like scoliosis)
How your vertebrae are aligned
Disc spacing and degeneration
Joint integrity in the hips, shoulders, or knees
Whether you have bone spurs, calcifications, or other structural changes

This information helps us decide how, where, and when to adjust your spine safely and effectively.

Are X-rays Safe?
Yes, modern chiropractic X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered safe for most patients. We always take your health history and age into account, and we only take X-rays when clinically necessary.

For women who are or may be pregnant, we take special precautions and often avoid X-rays unless absolutely required.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic X-ray
The process usually takes just a few minutes. You’ll be asked to stand still or lie down, depending on the views we need. The chiropractor or X-ray tech will position you and step out briefly to take the image. You won’t feel anything—X-rays are painless and non-invasive.

How Are Radiographs Used in Your Care?
Once we have your images, your chiropractor will:

Review them carefully
Go over the results with you (often showing you the images directly)
Explain what’s going on with your spine
Use the findings to build a customized treatment plan

In some cases, we may share your X-rays with other providers (like your medical doctor or specialist) if needed.

Our office bills $40-80 for radiographs depending on the region being imaged. Individual insurance rates and coverage may vary depending on your policy. Verify with your insurance what is covered using the information above for the codes described. Ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your care. We will help you along the way, but we encourage you to check with your insurance to understand what you will be charged.

Specific Chiropractic Services and Their Descriptions

These are the descriptions of specific services usually captured in one of the codes described above. Sometimes multiple services can be captured within the same code, sometimes we will need different codes to capture all of the services. While it can get confusing, we tried our best to make it a clear as possible. If anything is unclear or you have questions about a particular service, we encourage you to contact our office.

Chiropractic Joint Manipulation

What Is Chiropractic Joint Manipulation?

Chiropractic joint manipulation—also commonly referred to as a chiropractic adjustment—is a safe, hands-on technique used by chiropractors to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing process. During this treatment, a chiropractor applies a quick, controlled force to a joint that has become restricted or misaligned. This often results in a gentle “popping” sound, which is simply the release of gas within the joint, much like cracking your knuckles.

Chiropractors perform joint manipulations to address what’s known as joint dysfunction or subluxation—when joints, particularly in the spine, are not moving properly. These dysfunctions can develop from poor posture, injuries, stress, or even everyday activities, and may cause pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and nerve irritation. By restoring normal movement through joint manipulation, chiropractors help relieve discomfort and improve your overall spinal health and function.

At your visit, your chiropractor will begin with a full health history and examination, sometimes including X-rays if needed. Once the affected area is identified, you’ll be positioned comfortably while the chiropractor performs the adjustment using precise, targeted movements. Most patients report feeling relief, improved flexibility, or a sense of release after the procedure. Some mild soreness may occur afterward—similar to what you might feel after exercising—but this typically resolves quickly.

Chiropractic joint manipulation is often used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including neck pain, lower back pain, headaches, sciatica, joint stiffness, and postural imbalances. It can also be part of a broader wellness approach to maintain spinal alignment and optimize nervous system function—even if you’re not currently in pain.

When performed by a licensed chiropractor, joint manipulation is extremely safe and effective. Chiropractors receive extensive training in anatomy, biomechanics, and adjusting techniques to ensure treatments are both gentle and specific to your needs. In many cases, chiropractic adjustments are combined with other therapies such as massage, stretching, therapeutic exercises, and ergonomic guidance to support long-term recovery and wellness.

If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or limited mobility—or simply want to maintain a healthy spine—chiropractic joint manipulation may be a highly effective and natural solution. Your chiropractor will tailor your care plan to help you move better, feel better, and live better.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, chiropractic joint manipulation—also known as a chiropractic adjustment—is one of the most effective and natural ways to restore movement, reduce pain, and support your body’s healing process. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this hands-on technique involves applying a quick, controlled force to a joint that isn’t moving properly, most commonly within the spine. You may hear a gentle “popping” sound during the adjustment, which is simply gas releasing from the joint—similar to cracking your knuckles.

Over time, everyday stress, poor posture, injuries, and repetitive motions can cause joints to become restricted or misaligned—a condition chiropractors refer to as joint dysfunction or subluxation. These restrictions can lead to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and nerve irritation. Using precise chiropractic joint manipulation, Dr. Zappy gently restores proper alignment and mobility, allowing your body to function more efficiently and comfortably.

Your first visit to The Wellness Center of Chester County includes a comprehensive health history and physical examination. If necessary, digital X-rays may be taken on-site to better understand the underlying cause of your symptoms. Once a care plan is established, Dr. Zappy will walk you through every step of the adjustment process. Most patients report immediate relief, improved mobility, and a deep sense of release following their treatment. Mild soreness—similar to post-exercise fatigue—is normal and typically resolves within a day or two.

Chiropractic joint manipulation is commonly used to treat conditions like lower back pain, neck pain, sciatica, tension headaches, joint stiffness, and postural imbalances. It also plays a key role in preventative care and long-term spinal wellness, even if you’re not currently in pain. In many cases, chiropractic adjustments are combined with other in-office therapies such as massage therapy, manual traction, therapeutic exercise, or neuromuscular re-education to accelerate healing and restore function.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy combines advanced chiropractic techniques with compassionate care to help you feel better, move better, and live better—naturally and drug-free. If you’re ready to take control of your spinal health and overall well-being, we invite you to schedule a consultation and experience the difference chiropractic care can make.

Myofascial Release Technique

What Is Myofascial Release?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, one of the most effective soft tissue techniques we offer is myofascial release—a gentle, hands-on therapy designed to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore full movement. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this technique targets the myofascial system—a network of connective tissue (fascia) that surrounds and supports your muscles, bones, nerves, and organs.

Over time, stress, injury, inflammation, and repetitive motion can cause this fascia to become tight, restricted, or stuck. These restrictions may not show up on imaging like X-rays or MRIs but can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and postural dysfunction. Myofascial release works by applying sustained pressure and slow, stretching movements to the affected areas to gently release these restrictions, improve circulation, and restore balance to the body.

At your visit, Dr. Zappy will first assess your posture, muscle tone, and areas of tension. Myofascial release is then performed with targeted, manual pressure applied to specific muscles and connective tissues. Unlike a traditional massage, which often focuses on relaxation, myofascial release is therapeutic and aims to break up adhesions (knots), lengthen restricted tissue, and restore functional movement. Treatments are generally comfortable, though patients may experience a deep, mild soreness similar to post-exercise fatigue as the body rebalances.

This technique is commonly used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including:

Chronic neck or back pain
Headaches or migraines
Shoulder tension or frozen shoulder
Sciatica or hip pain
Plantar fasciitis
Postural imbalances
Soft tissue injuries from auto accidents or sports

In many cases, myofascial release is incorporated as part of a broader treatment plan that may include chiropractic joint manipulation, therapeutic exercises, neuromuscular re-education, or massage therapy, depending on your specific condition and goals.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy uses myofascial release to complement chiropractic care, helping you move better, feel better, and heal faster—naturally and without medication. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply looking to improve your mobility and performance, myofascial release can be a powerful tool in your wellness journey.

Pin and Release Technique

What Is Pin and Release?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, one of the most effective soft tissue techniques we offer is called pin and release, a targeted method used to relieve muscle tension, break up adhesions (knots), and restore proper movement patterns. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this hands-on therapy is especially helpful for patients experiencing tightness, chronic muscle pain, or limited range of motion due to overuse, postural stress, or injury.

The pin and release technique involves identifying a specific tight or dysfunctional muscle fiber, then applying gentle, sustained pressure—“pinning” the tissue—while simultaneously guiding the muscle through its natural range of motion. This action helps manually separate and lengthen muscle fibers and fascia, improving blood flow, decreasing restriction, and resetting neuromuscular coordination.

Pin and release is commonly used to treat areas such as the neck, shoulders, low back, hips, and legs, especially in patients who suffer from conditions like sciatica, tension headaches, carpal tunnel, or repetitive strain injuries. It’s also highly beneficial for athletes or active individuals seeking to recover faster, move more freely, and prevent future injury.

Unlike passive treatments, pin and release is interactive—you may be asked to move your arm, leg, or neck during treatment while pressure is applied to specific points. Most patients describe the sensation as “intense but relieving,” and many experience immediate improvement in mobility and a noticeable reduction in muscle tightness.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy often combines pin and release with chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and other soft tissue therapies to deliver comprehensive, natural care. If you’re dealing with muscle pain, stiffness, or restricted motion, this technique may be a powerful part of your customized treatment plan to help you feel and move your best.

Graston (aka Gua Sha)

What Is the Graston Technique?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we use a variety of soft tissue therapies to support your healing and recovery, including the Graston technique—a specialized vascular therapy designed to stimulate blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and support tissue regeneration. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this technique uses uniquely shaped stainless steel instruments to gently glide over the skin and muscles, encouraging circulation and helping the body repair areas affected by stress or injury.

While some may describe Graston as a tool for “breaking up scar tissue,” at our clinic, we take a different, more accurate approach: Graston is not about breaking anything down—it’s about building back up. By applying controlled pressure to specific areas, the technique helps bring oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to tight or injured tissue, kickstarting your body’s natural healing response. This makes it a great option for chronic tension, overuse injuries, or postural strain where the tissue needs more blood supply to recover fully.

Graston therapy is commonly used for conditions such as shoulder tension, low back stiffness, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and IT band tightness, among others. Patients often describe the sensation as a mild scraping or stroking across the skin. It may feel tender in tight areas, but most people experience a sense of release, warmth, and improved mobility after the session. Some light redness is normal and simply a sign that blood flow has increased to the area being treated.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy often incorporates Graston as part of a broader chiropractic care plan to support recovery, reduce pain, and restore optimal movement. When used alongside spinal adjustments, therapeutic exercises, or neuromuscular re-education, Graston helps create a well-rounded, vascular-focused approach to natural healing—without medications or invasive procedures. If you’re experiencing chronic muscle tightness or recovering from an injury, this technique may help re-energize your tissues and accelerate your progress.

Traction and/or Decompression Therapy

What Is Traction or Decompression Therapy?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, one of the supportive therapies we offer alongside chiropractic care is traction, also known as decompression therapy. This gentle, non-invasive technique is designed to relieve pressure on the spine and surrounding nerves by creating space between the vertebrae. Administered by Dr. Joseph Zappy, spinal traction helps reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and promote healing in patients experiencing back or neck pain, disc injuries, or nerve compression.

During traction or decompression therapy, a targeted stretching force is applied to either the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) region of the spine. This can be done manually by Dr. Zappy using precise, controlled hand techniques, or with the assistance of a specialized table that helps gently elongate the spine. The purpose is to create more space between spinal discs and joints, allowing for improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and relief from pressure that may be irritating spinal nerves.

Traction is especially helpful for conditions such as herniated or bulging discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or chronic low back and neck pain. It is often used in combination with chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue work to create a comprehensive, natural treatment plan that targets both the structure and the supporting tissues of your spine.

Patients typically describe the experience of traction as deeply relieving and relaxing. It’s not forceful or painful—in fact, many people feel a sense of “lengthening” or “unloading” as the pressure eases from compressed joints. Over time, decompression therapy can help restore better spinal alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and support long-term healing without drugs or surgery.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy uses traction and decompression therapy as part of a holistic approach to care. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic spinal discomfort, this technique may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain naturally, so you can get back to moving—and living—with greater ease.

Kinesiology Taping

What Is Kinesiology Taping?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, one of the supportive therapies we use to enhance healing and performance is Kinesiology Taping. Often seen on athletes but beneficial for people of all activity levels, kinesiology tape is a specialized, stretchy adhesive tape applied to the skin to support muscles, joints, and soft tissues—without restricting movement. Applied by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this technique is a powerful tool that can improve body awareness, reduce swelling, and promote faster recovery.

One of the key benefits of kinesiology taping is its effect on proprioception, or your body’s sense of position and movement. When applied correctly, the tape gently lifts the skin and stimulates nerve endings beneath the surface. This feedback helps improve neuromuscular control, making you more aware of how you move and allowing muscles and joints to function more efficiently. For this reason, it’s often used to help with postural correction, joint stabilization, and injury prevention—especially in areas like the shoulders, knees, lower back, and ankles.

In addition to its proprioceptive benefits, kinesiology taping has a direct impact on your body’s lymphatic and circulatory systems. By slightly lifting the skin, the tape creates microscopic space between the skin and underlying tissues. This helps decompress congested areas, allowing for improved lymphatic drainage and blood flow. As a result, kinesiology taping can help reduce swelling, inflammation, and bruising—especially after injuries, surgeries, or prolonged inflammation.

Kinesiology tape is latex-free and water-resistant, meaning it can be worn for several days at a time, even while showering or exercising. At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy often uses kinesiology taping as part of a broader treatment plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic tension, or just looking for extra support during daily movement, kinesiology taping can be a simple, non-invasive way to help your body heal and function better.

Peripheral Nerve Release

What Is Peripheral Nerve Release?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we specialize in gentle, non-invasive techniques that restore mobility and reduce pain—including a powerful hands-on method known as Peripheral Nerve Release. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this soft tissue technique is designed to free up irritated or entrapped nerves that are being compressed or restricted by surrounding muscles, fascia, or connective tissue.

Peripheral nerves run throughout the arms, legs, hands, and feet, carrying signals from your brain to your muscles and skin. When one of these nerves becomes irritated—often due to muscle tightness, inflammation, overuse, or injury—it can lead to symptoms like tingling, numbness, burning, shooting pain, or weakness. Common examples include sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, piriformis syndrome, or nerve entrapment in the shoulder, elbow, or ankle.

Dr. Zappy performs Peripheral Nerve Release by gently identifying and addressing the tissues that are compressing the nerve. Through targeted manual pressure, guided stretching, and soft tissue mobilization, the nerve is carefully “freed” from the surrounding restriction. This allows for improved nerve mobility, blood flow, and reduced sensitivity, helping the nerve function normally again. Patients often describe a sense of “release” or warmth in the affected area during treatment, followed by a decrease in nerve-related symptoms.

This technique is especially valuable because it addresses the root cause of nerve irritation rather than just masking the symptoms. By restoring normal movement to the nerve and surrounding structures, patients can often avoid medications or invasive procedures. At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy integrates Peripheral Nerve Release into individualized care plans to support healing, enhance function, and relieve chronic nerve tension in a natural, holistic way.

Nerve Flossing and/or Nerve Glides

What Is Nerve Flossing?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer a range of specialized soft tissue techniques to help restore healthy movement and relieve pain—one of which is called Nerve Flossing. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, nerve flossing is a gentle, movement-based technique that helps restore normal mobility and glide to irritated or restricted nerves. It’s especially effective for conditions involving nerve tension, such as sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, piriformis syndrome, or postural nerve compression.

Nerves in the body need to be able to move and slide freely through the surrounding muscles and tissues as you bend, stretch, and rotate. But when nerves become irritated or trapped—due to inflammation, tight muscles, or repetitive strain—they can lose that mobility. This often leads to symptoms like tingling, numbness, shooting pain, or muscle weakness. Nerve flossing works by using specific guided movements and stretches that gently “glide” the nerve through its natural path, helping to restore its range of motion and reduce sensitivity.

Unlike static stretching or strengthening exercises, nerve flossing is a dynamic, rhythmic motion that coordinates body positioning with joint movement to mobilize the nerve without putting it under stress. Dr. Zappy may guide you through targeted arm, leg, or neck movements that are carefully timed with posture and breathing to optimize the nerve’s ability to move freely again. Over time, this helps decrease irritation, reduce pain, and restore normal function.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy often incorporates nerve flossing into customized care plans for patients experiencing chronic nerve tension or recovering from injuries. When combined with chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and corrective exercises, nerve flossing provides a safe, natural, and highly effective way to support your nervous system and get you moving comfortably again—without the use of medication or surgery.

Vibration Therapy

What Is Vibration Therapy?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we use a variety of advanced, non-invasive therapies to support healing, mobility, and overall wellness—including Vibration Therapy. Administered by Dr. Joseph Zappy, vibration therapy is a gentle, targeted treatment that uses mechanical vibration to stimulate muscles, improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and support the body’s natural recovery process.

Vibration therapy works by applying high-frequency, low-amplitude vibrations to specific areas of the body using handheld tools or vibration platforms. These vibrations penetrate deep into the muscle and connective tissue, promoting increased blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and muscle activation. This makes it a great option for people dealing with tight or sore muscles, poor circulation, chronic pain, or postural fatigue.

One of the key benefits of vibration therapy is its ability to wake up sluggish muscles and reduce tension without requiring forceful pressure. It helps relax tight areas, improve flexibility, and stimulate the nervous system, which is especially helpful before or after chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, or exercise. It can also aid in lymphatic circulation, helping the body reduce inflammation and eliminate waste products from injured or overused tissues.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy may incorporate vibration therapy into your treatment plan as a standalone technique or in combination with chiropractic care, myofascial release, or therapeutic exercises. It’s a safe, comfortable, and effective tool for enhancing your body’s ability to heal, recover, and move better naturally—without the need for medication or invasive procedures.

Activator

What Is the Activator?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer a variety of chiropractic techniques tailored to meet your specific needs—one of the most precise and gentle approaches we use is the Activator Method. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy, this technique involves the use of a small handheld instrument called an Activator Adjusting Tool that delivers a quick, targeted impulse to specific joints in the spine or extremities. It’s designed to restore motion, reduce pain, and improve alignment without the need for traditional manual adjustments.

The Activator is especially helpful for patients who prefer a low-force, gentle chiropractic approach, or for those with conditions that may make traditional adjustments less comfortable—such as osteoporosis, arthritis, or post-surgical concerns. Because the Activator tool moves faster than the body’s natural tendency to tense up, the adjustment is delivered with minimal resistance and maximum precision. Most patients describe the sensation as a light tap, with no twisting or popping involved.

Dr. Zappy uses the Activator Method to assess and adjust spinal joint dysfunction, extremity pain, postural issues, and nerve interference. The technique is based on a series of neurological and biomechanical tests that help identify exactly where the adjustment is needed and how your body responds afterward. By using this method, we can achieve highly specific corrections that support your body’s ability to heal naturally.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy integrates the Activator Method as part of a personalized chiropractic care plan for patients of all ages. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply looking to improve spinal health in a gentle, effective way, Activator adjustments offer a reliable, research-backed approach to help you move and feel your best—comfortably and safely.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we provide therapeutic techniques that go beyond traditional chiropractic care to support your body’s natural healing systems. One such technique is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)—a gentle, hands-on therapy designed to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, reduce swelling, and promote detoxification. Performed by Dr. Joseph Zappy or a trained provider on our wellness team, this light-touch therapy is especially helpful for patients recovering from injury, dealing with chronic inflammation, or looking to improve overall circulation and immune function.

The lymphatic system is a crucial part of your body’s immune and waste-removal system. Unlike blood, lymph doesn’t have a pump like the heart to keep it moving. Instead, it relies on movement, muscle contractions, and gentle stimulation to flow properly. When the lymphatic system becomes sluggish or blocked—due to injury, surgery, illness, or inflammation—fluid can build up in tissues, leading to swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and increased sensitivity.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses slow, rhythmic, and very light movements to encourage the natural movement of lymph through the body’s network of vessels and nodes. The technique is not the same as massage—there’s no deep pressure or kneading—instead, MLD focuses on stimulating the skin and superficial tissues to help the body clear out toxins, reduce puffiness, and restore healthy lymph flow.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Dr. Joseph Zappy may recommend Manual Lymphatic Drainage as part of a comprehensive wellness plan, particularly for patients recovering from injury, managing post-surgical swelling, dealing with autoimmune conditions, or experiencing fluid retention. This relaxing, non-invasive technique supports a healthy immune system, improves tissue healing, and enhances your overall sense of well-being—naturally and gently.

Specific Massage Therapy Services and Their Descriptions

These are the descriptions of specific services usually captured in the 97124 code described above. Sometimes multiple services can be captured within the same code, sometimes we will need different codes to capture all of the services. While it can get confusing, we tried our best to make it a clear as possible. If anything is unclear or you have questions about a particular service, we encourage you to contact our office.

Swedish Massage

What Is Swedish Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, one of the most relaxing and widely requested massage therapy services we offer is the Swedish Massage. Known for its gentle, flowing movements and therapeutic benefits, Swedish massage is a foundational technique used to reduce stress, relieve muscle tension, and promote overall relaxation. Under the leadership of Matthew Kinney, Lead Massage Therapist, our skilled team of licensed massage therapists provides this calming service as part of our comprehensive wellness approach.

Swedish massage uses a combination of long, gliding strokes, kneading, gentle stretching, and circular motions over the top layers of muscle. It’s designed to improve circulation, release surface-level tension, and support the nervous system—making it an excellent choice for those who are new to massage therapy, managing stress, or looking to unwind from daily physical and emotional strain. Unlike deeper techniques, Swedish massage is performed with moderate to light pressure, allowing your body and mind to fully relax.

While Matthew Kinney may not always perform the service himself, he personally trains and oversees a dedicated team of massage therapists at The Wellness Center of Chester County, ensuring that each session meets the highest standard of care. Every Swedish massage is customized to your preferences—whether you need general relaxation or are dealing with mild muscular soreness or stiffness. It’s not uncommon for patients to report better sleep, reduced anxiety, and a noticeable sense of calm following a session.

Incorporating regular Swedish Massage Therapy into your wellness routine can help manage stress-related symptoms, support immune health, and improve your body’s ability to recover from physical activity. Whether you’re receiving massage on its own or alongside chiropractic care with Dr. Joseph Zappy, our team is here to help you experience the many benefits of therapeutic massage in a calming, professional setting.

Clinical and/or Medical Massage

What Is Clinical or Medical Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we specialize in Clinical and Medical Massage Therapy, a targeted, outcome-focused approach to massage that goes beyond relaxation. This advanced technique is designed to address specific musculoskeletal conditions, support recovery from injury, and complement medical care. Led by Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, our skilled team of licensed therapists works closely with patients and providers—including Dr. Joseph Zappy—to create customized treatment plans that promote healing, reduce pain, and restore function.

Unlike a general relaxation massage, Clinical Massage Therapy is highly specific and results-driven. It focuses on treating particular areas of dysfunction such as chronic neck or back pain, nerve entrapment, soft tissue injuries, postural imbalances, and rehabilitation following surgery or trauma. Techniques may include myofascial release, trigger point therapy, deep tissue manipulation, and joint mobilization—all carefully selected based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment goals.

Matthew Kinney brings extensive experience and clinical insight to his role as Lead Massage Therapist, training and mentoring our entire massage therapy team to ensure consistency and excellence in care. While he may not provide every massage himself, his protocols and standards are reflected in every session. Before treatment, your massage therapist will conduct a brief assessment and review any relevant clinical findings to ensure your session is both safe and effective.

Many patients who receive Medical Massage Therapy at The Wellness Center of Chester County are managing conditions such as sciatica, frozen shoulder, TMJ dysfunction, migraines, disc injuries, or postural strain from desk work or physical labor. Clinical massage is often integrated with chiropractic care, rehabilitative exercises, and soft tissue therapies to support full-body healing and long-term results.

Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or seeking a more focused and therapeutic approach to massage, our team is here to provide expert care. At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Clinical Massage Therapy is not just a service—it’s a vital part of your recovery and wellness journey.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer specialized Massage Therapy services designed to support the body’s natural healing processes—including Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD). This gentle, highly effective technique is used to stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce swelling, and promote detoxification. Under the guidance of Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, our experienced team is trained to deliver this light-touch therapy with precision and care. While Matthew may not perform every massage personally, he oversees and mentors each member of our massage therapy team to ensure the highest standard of treatment.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a very gentle form of massage therapy that focuses on encouraging the movement of lymph fluid through the body’s lymphatic vessels and nodes. The lymphatic system plays a critical role in immune function and fluid regulation, but unlike the circulatory system, it has no pump—so it relies on movement, breath, and manual stimulation to function efficiently. MLD uses slow, rhythmic strokes and specific sequences to help clear blockages, reduce inflammation, and support post-surgical recovery, chronic swelling (lymphedema), or fluid retention caused by injury or illness.

This type of Massage Therapy is not designed to be deep or forceful. Instead, it works just below the skin’s surface, where the majority of lymphatic vessels lie. Patients often describe the experience as deeply relaxing, and many report immediate relief from swelling or a feeling of lightness and improved circulation. Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage is also frequently used as a complementary therapy for patients recovering from plastic surgery, orthopedic procedures, autoimmune disorders, or chronic inflammation.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Matthew Kinney ensures that each lymphatic massage session is customized to the patient’s needs, goals, and medical history. Whether you’re looking to reduce swelling, enhance your immune function, or accelerate post-operative healing, our team of licensed massage therapists is here to help you feel better—naturally and safely—through the power of professional, therapeutic massage.

Peripheral Nerve Release Massage

What Is Peripheral Nerve Release Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer advanced Massage Therapy techniques that go beyond relaxation and address the root causes of pain and dysfunction. One such technique is Peripheral Nerve Release Massage, a specialized therapy designed to relieve pressure on irritated or entrapped nerves in the arms, legs, shoulders, and other extremities. This targeted, hands-on approach is performed by our skilled massage therapy team under the leadership of Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist. While Matthew may not perform the massage himself, he trains and guides our team to ensure each therapist delivers this service with expert precision and care.

Peripheral nerves travel throughout your body, carrying signals between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. When these nerves become compressed or restricted by tight muscles, fascia, or inflamed soft tissue, they can produce symptoms like numbness, tingling, burning, radiating pain, or muscle weakness. Peripheral Nerve Release Massage uses specific manual techniques to free the nerve from surrounding soft tissue restrictions, allowing it to glide more freely and function more normally.

This advanced form of Massage Therapy focuses on identifying the path of the nerve and applying strategic pressure, stretching, and soft tissue mobilization to restore movement and reduce nerve sensitivity. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, piriformis syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, sciatica, and nerve entrapment in the shoulder, hip, or wrist. Patients often notice an immediate reduction in nerve-related symptoms and improved range of motion after treatment.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, our team works closely with Dr. Joseph Zappy and the rest of our clinical staff to integrate Peripheral Nerve Release Massage into comprehensive care plans. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or struggling with nerve pain that affects your daily life, this highly effective therapy can help reduce discomfort, restore function, and support long-term healing through the power of specialized massage therapy.

Fascial Release Massage

What Is Fascial Release Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer a wide range of advanced Massage Therapy techniques designed to promote healing, improve movement, and relieve chronic tension. One of the most transformative techniques we use is Fascial Release Massage. This hands-on therapy focuses on releasing restrictions in the fascia—the web-like connective tissue that surrounds and supports your muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. Led by Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, our skilled team delivers this specialized therapy with clinical precision and a personalized approach. While Matthew may not perform each session personally, he closely trains and oversees our massage team to ensure every treatment reflects the highest standards of care.

Fascia can become tight, dehydrated, or “stuck” due to injury, overuse, surgery, inflammation, or poor posture. When that happens, it can create tension, pain, limited mobility, and even nerve irritation. Fascial Release Massage involves slow, sustained pressure and gentle stretching of the fascia to restore glide, flexibility, and healthy movement patterns. Unlike deep tissue massage, which focuses on muscles, fascial work targets the connective tissue system and is often performed without oil, using very deliberate, slow techniques that allow the tissue to respond and release naturally.

This technique is ideal for patients experiencing chronic pain, postural dysfunction, repetitive strain injuries, or scar tissue from past surgeries. It’s also highly beneficial for athletes and active individuals seeking to enhance performance and reduce risk of injury. Patients often report a deep sense of relief, increased range of motion, and long-term improvements in their overall comfort and function following fascial work.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, our team of licensed massage therapists integrates Fascial Release Massage Therapy into customized treatment plans that may also include chiropractic care, neuromuscular therapy, and corrective exercise. Under the leadership of Matthew Kinney, we are committed to helping you move better, feel better, and live better—through the powerful, restorative effects of expert therapeutic massage.

Postural Correction Massage

What Is Postural Correction Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we understand that modern life often leads to poor posture—whether it’s from sitting at a desk, driving long hours, or repetitive movement patterns. That’s why we offer Postural Correction Massage, a highly specialized form of Massage Therapy that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying muscular imbalances that contribute to poor posture. This technique is provided by our skilled team of licensed massage therapists under the leadership of Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist. While Matthew may not provide every session personally, he trains and oversees the massage therapy team to ensure each session meets the highest level of therapeutic care.

Postural Correction Massage works by targeting areas of the body where muscles have become shortened, overstretched, or locked in dysfunctional holding patterns due to long-term poor posture. This typically includes the neck, shoulders, upper back, hips, and core. Using a combination of myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, and deep tissue techniques, your massage therapist works to lengthen tight muscles, activate weak ones, and restore balanced alignment throughout your body.

This type of Massage Therapy is especially helpful for individuals who suffer from chronic neck and shoulder tension, lower back pain, forward head posture, or scoliosis, and for those recovering from injuries made worse by poor body mechanics. Patients often experience noticeable improvements in how they carry themselves, enhanced mobility, reduced pain, and a deeper awareness of their posture and movement habits.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Postural Correction Massage is often integrated into broader treatment plans that include chiropractic care with Dr. Joseph Zappy, corrective exercises, and workplace ergonomic advice. Whether you’re looking to undo the effects of long-term desk work or optimize your movement for athletic performance, our massage therapy team—guided by the expertise of Matthew Kinney—is here to help you realign, rebalance, and restore your body through expert therapeutic massage.

Well Check Massage

What Is a Well Check Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we believe that wellness is not just about treating pain—it’s about preventing dysfunction before it starts. That’s why we offer the Well Check Massage, a proactive form of Massage Therapy designed to maintain optimal muscular health, detect early signs of imbalance, and support long-term physical well-being. This service is delivered by our team of licensed massage therapists under the leadership of Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, who guides the clinical approach behind every session. While Matthew may not perform the massage himself, he oversees the program to ensure that each therapist is providing consistent, high-quality care.

The Well Check Massage is ideal for individuals who may not currently be in pain but want to stay ahead of tension, stiffness, or postural stress. During your session, your massage therapist will perform a brief soft tissue screening, checking for areas of tightness, restriction, or muscle guarding that may be developing from everyday stress, work habits, or athletic activity. Using a combination of Swedish massage, light myofascial release, and gentle muscle balancing, this treatment is designed to promote circulation, release low-level tension, and support nervous system regulation.

This preventative approach to Massage Therapy helps you stay aware of how your body is functioning and catch potential issues—such as tight shoulders, restricted hip mobility, or tension in the neck—before they lead to discomfort or injury. Many patients schedule Well Check Massages on a monthly or seasonal basis as part of their regular self-care and wellness routine.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Matthew Kinney and his team view massage not just as a treatment, but as a vital part of your ongoing health strategy. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or someone who simply wants to stay on top of their health, the Well Check Massage offers a simple, effective way to stay aligned, balanced, and in tune with your body through expert therapeutic massage care.

Deep Tissue Massage

What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer advanced Massage Therapy services tailored to help patients relieve chronic tension, improve mobility, and recover from injury—including the highly effective Deep Tissue Massage. This focused technique targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to break through long-held tension, release stubborn knots, and improve soft tissue function. While Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, may not personally provide every massage, he trains and supervises our expert team to ensure each Deep Tissue session is performed with precision, safety, and skill.

Deep Tissue Massage is ideal for patients experiencing chronic pain, restricted movement, or muscular imbalances caused by repetitive strain, postural dysfunction, sports injuries, or previous trauma. Unlike a relaxation massage, deep tissue work uses slower, more sustained pressure, often applied with the therapist’s elbows, knuckles, and forearms. The goal is to reach beneath the surface layers of muscle to address deeper adhesions and trigger points, helping to restore balance and relieve stress in overworked areas.

This form of Massage Therapy can be particularly effective for areas such as the neck, shoulders, low back, hips, and legs, where tension tends to accumulate and linger. While the pressure can feel intense at times, our therapists always work within your comfort level and encourage open communication throughout the session. After treatment, many patients report reduced pain, greater flexibility, and a deep sense of release, even if a little soreness is experienced in the following day or two.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, our team—led by Matthew Kinney—works closely with Dr. Joseph Zappy and our chiropractic providers to integrate Deep Tissue Massage into comprehensive care plans. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, training for an event, or simply trying to move more freely, our therapeutic massage services can help you achieve long-term relief and optimal performance in a supportive, professional setting.

Chair Massage

What Is Chair Massage?
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we offer a variety of accessible and effective Massage Therapy services, including Chair Massage—a quick, convenient way to experience the benefits of therapeutic bodywork without needing to lie down or disrobe. This service is performed by our licensed massage therapists and guided by the expertise of Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, who oversees all aspects of massage care to ensure safe, skillful treatment. While Matthew may not perform every chair massage personally, he trains and mentors our team to deliver consistent, high-quality care.

Chair massage is performed in a specially designed ergonomic chair that allows you to comfortably lean forward while your therapist works on your neck, shoulders, upper back, arms, and scalp. Using a combination of compression, kneading, and trigger point techniques, this type of massage is ideal for relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and reducing stress—especially for individuals who sit for long periods or carry tension in the upper body.

One of the biggest benefits of Chair Massage Therapy is its accessibility. Sessions typically range from 10 to 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules or as a refreshing wellness break during the workday. Many of our patients use chair massage as part of their ongoing self-care routine or take advantage of it during corporate wellness events, community health fairs, or in-office visits.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, Matthew Kinney and our team of licensed therapists deliver chair massage with the same attention to detail and therapeutic intent as our longer table sessions. Whether you’re looking to ease tension between chiropractic visits, reduce stress after a long day, or introduce yourself to massage in a comfortable, low-pressure way, chair massage offers a simple and effective solution—guided by our trusted massage therapy professionals.

Corporate Chair Massage

Corporate Chair Massage Events for Local Businesses
At The Wellness Center of Chester County in Exton, we’re proud to support the health and wellness of our local community—not just in our office, but out in the workplaces where people spend most of their day. Led by Matthew Kinney, our Lead Massage Therapist, we bring professional Massage Therapy services directly to area businesses through our popular on-site chair massage events. These sessions are designed to provide staff with a relaxing, rejuvenating experience that fits seamlessly into the workday, helping to reduce stress, boost morale, and promote overall well-being.

Our chair massage events are ideal for employee appreciation days, wellness weeks, corporate retreats, or ongoing staff wellness programs. Matthew Kinney leads our experienced team of licensed massage therapists to your business location and sets up ergonomic massage chairs in a designated area. Each staff member receives a customized, 10- to 20-minute massage focused on relieving common workplace tension in the neck, shoulders, upper back, arms, and hands—the areas most affected by desk work, repetitive motion, and job-related stress.

These corporate massage therapy services are easy to set up and require minimal space and equipment. All we need is a quiet room or conference space, and we’ll handle the rest—from scheduling to logistics—so your team can relax and enjoy the benefits. Chair massage helps improve focus, reduce muscle fatigue, and lower stress levels, making it an excellent investment in your team’s performance and long-term health.

At The Wellness Center of Chester County, we believe in bringing wellness where it’s needed most. Under Matthew Kinney’s leadership, our massage therapy team is committed to supporting the physical and mental health of employees across Chester County. If you’re a local business owner or manager looking to enhance your company’s wellness culture, our on-site massage therapy events are a powerful and thoughtful way to show your team you care.

Special needs outreach

Lead by Matthew, our lead massage therapist and partnered with Children and Adult Disability & Educational Services (CADES)

Interested in finding out more about the CADES special needs programs?

CADES, Children and Adult Disability & Educational Services, is a nonprofit located in Delaware County, Pa. They are dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, and the lives of their families. CADES offers a continuum of high quality, supportive services and programs.
Why did we partner with CADES?

Our Top Missions

At our practice, we believe Massage Therapy offers meaningful support for special needs populations by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing overall comfort. We recognize that every individual deserves compassionate, individualized care that respects their unique needs and abilities. Our partnership with CADES reflects our commitment to improving quality of life through safe, gentle, and effective therapeutic touch.

Our Story

A Little About This Partnership

The Center for Advancement, Development, and Empowerment Services (CADES) is a committed organization offering a wide range of support services for persons with intellectual and physical disabilities. Their aim is to support special children and adults through inclusive programs to build growth, independence, and social interaction. CADES provides assistance with residential services, educational programs, and therapy support, all to enable persons to live meaningful lives in a nurturing, sympathetic setting. 

We’re honored at The Wellness Center of Chester County to continue a long-standing affiliation with CADES, through which we deliver massage therapy to the residents. This service offers not only the physical rewards, but the emotional and psychological nurturing to special needs persons as well. Massage has been found to bring about anxiety reduction, relaxation, enhanced circulation, as well as even increased sensory integration—gains even more significant for the developmentally and physically impaired.

The effect of this work is profound. Each visit serves as a remembrance of the immense power of human touch. To witness the joy, peace, and sense of union the massage provides to CADES residents is very moving and serves to further affirm the importance of the work we do. Their beaming smiles and positive reactions motivate the rest of us to keep giving our best.

We’re constantly seeking to increase our outreach and bring the healing benefits of massage to even more special needs individuals. If you’d like to arrange to contract a therapist to attend to a loved one, we’d be privileged to be a part of your family’s healing process.