Cash Vs. Insurance PT Explained w/ Dr. Kurt Kessler

Send us a text if you want to be on the Podcast & explain why!

Dr. Kurt IG: higherpowersportpt 

What if getting “cleared” isn’t even close to ready? We sit down with sports physical therapist Dr. Kessler to break down the real differences between insurance-based clinics and cash-based care—and why that gap can decide whether you return to sport strong or stuck at 70 percent. Instead of chasing codes and cramming notes, we dig into longer one-on-one sessions, meaningful assessments, and exercise dosing that actually moves the needle.

Dr. Kessler takes us behind the curtain of residency training, board exams, and the daily reality of high-volume clinics where documentation dictates decisions. We compare insurance goals—basic independence and ADLs—to athletic goals like sprinting, cutting, and lifting heavy. You’ll hear how test item clusters beat one-off special tests, why movement is medicine only when dosed right, and how to build capacity by targeting the real “why” behind pain. Hip pain in front? We talk posterior capsule, loading strategy, and the difference between protocols and problem-solving.

We also get practical about collaboration. Trainers who speak anatomy and program progressive overload can carry clients from pain-free to peak performance, while PTs who respect performance training build stronger, safer handoffs. Together, that ecosystem prevents re-injury and measures what matters: side-to-side strength, rate of force development, and readiness to play. We close with honest talk on sales, marketing, and education gaps that hold both fields back—and the simple fixes that raise the bar for everyone.

If you’re serious about better outcomes, stronger returns to sport, and a smarter PT–trainer alliance, this conversation will give you the playbook. Subscribe, share with a coach or clinician you trust, and leave a review to help more people find the show.

Want to become a SUCCESSFUL personal trainer? SUF-CPT is the FASTEST growing personal training certification in the world!

Want to ask us a question? Email info@showupfitness.com with the subject line PODCAST QUESTION to get your question answered live on the show!

Website: https://www.showupfitness.com/
Become a Successful Personal Trainer Book Vol. 2 (Amazon): https://a.co/d/1aoRnqA
NASM / ACE / ISSA study guide: https://www.showupfitness.com