How do I know if physical therapy can help my condition?

If you're experiencing pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, or recovering from surgery or injury, physical therapy can likely help. We treat everything from acute injuries to chronic conditions like arthritis, back pain, neck pain, and post-surgical recovery. During your consultation, we'll assess your specific condition and create a personalized treatment plan just for you. Bottom line: If pain is limiting your daily activities, we can help.

Do you accept my insurance?

Yes! We accept most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, Horizon BCBS, UnitedHealthcare, and many more. We'll verify your benefits before your first visit and explain exactly what's covered. No surprise bills!

How long will my treatment take?

Most patients see significant improvement within 2-4 weeks, with full recovery typically taking 6-12 weeks. However, every case is different. Factors that affect recovery time include severity of your condition, how long you've had the problem, your overall health and fitness level, and your commitment to the treatment plan. We'll give you a realistic timeline during your first visit.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit includes: comprehensive evaluation (45–60 minutes), movement and strength assessment, pain level evaluation, personalized treatment plan creation, insurance verification and explanation, and your first treatment session. You'll leave knowing exactly what's wrong, how we'll fix it, and when you can expect to feel better.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

New Jersey allows direct access to physical therapy, so NO referral is needed for most conditions. You can schedule directly with us and start treatment immediately. Exception: Some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage. We'll check your specific benefits and help you get any necessary referrals if needed.

Will I need surgery or medications?

In most cases, NO! Our goal is to help you avoid surgery and reduce dependence on pain medications through proven, non-invasive treatments. We use advanced manual therapy techniques, shockwave therapy, targeted exercise programs, and movement re-education. Many patients who were told they needed surgery have avoided it completely with our treatment.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Same day appointments are often available! We understand that pain doesn't wait for convenient times. We offer same day appointments for urgent cases, evening appointments until 7 PM, Saturday appointments, and flexible scheduling to fit your life. Call (973) 689-7123 and we'll get you in as soon as possible.

What makes Spectrum Therapeutics different from other PT clinics?

Three key differences: One-on-one attention – You'll always work with a licensed therapist, never an aide. Advanced technology – We use cutting-edge treatments like shockwave therapy. Proven results – 25+ years of experience with over 10,000 successful recoveries. We don't just treat symptoms – we fix the root cause so your pain doesn't come back.

Is Shockwave Therapy covered by insurance?

No, shockwave therapy is not covered by insurance. However, we offer affordable out-of-pocket pricing and treatment packages to make it accessible for everyone. Simple pricing with no surprises.

How fast will I feel results from Shockwave Therapy?

Most patients feel noticeable relief after just 1–3 sessions. For lasting results, 4–6 sessions are typically recommended depending on your condition. Fast relief with long-term healing.

Close-up of omega-3 fish oil capsules next to fresh salmon on a wooden table.

What I've Learned About Omega-3 Supplements After 20+ Years in Healthcare

Dr. Rob Letizia PT, DPT

Walking into my office, I often see patients carrying bags full of omega-3 supplements, looking completely overwhelmed. "Which one might actually help?" they ask. After over two decades in healthcare, I've developed some perspectives on this complex topic.

The Research Landscape

The omega-3 research world is complicated, but there are some solid studies worth discussing. A significant 2019 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association examined thousands of participants and suggested potential cardiovascular benefits from omega-3 supplementation¹. The researchers noted associations with reduced heart attacks and coronary disease deaths.

However, the way this research gets translated into marketing claims often concerns me. The reality is far more nuanced than most advertisements suggest.

Two Patient Stories That Shaped My Thinking

Recently, I had two patients with similar joint stiffness complaints who tried different approaches. Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher, had been taking a popular fish oil supplement for six months with minimal improvement. Mark, a 52-year-old contractor with similar symptoms, tried wild salmon oil for three months and reported significant improvement in his morning joint discomfort.

While individual responses vary greatly, these cases made me more curious about what might account for such different outcomes.

Understanding Wild Salmon Oil Composition

Traditional fish oil supplements typically focus on EPA and DHA, the most studied omega-3 fatty acids. Wild salmon naturally contains these compounds plus omega-7s, omega-9s, and other fatty acids in combination.

Some preliminary research from the University of Washington has explored whether these natural combinations might work differently than isolated compounds². This doesn't diminish the value of EPA/DHA research, but it raises interesting questions about synergistic effects.

It's similar to how whole foods often provide nutrients alongside cofactors that may enhance absorption and utilization.

The Omega-6 Context

One factor that deserves more attention is our modern omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Research suggests Americans typically consume these fatty acids in ratios of 15:1 or higher, while historical estimates suggest our ancestors consumed ratios closer to 4:1³.

This imbalance from processed oils high in omega-6 may influence how our bodies respond to omega-3 supplementation. Many healthcare providers now recommend fatty acid level testing to better understand individual baselines.

My Personal Journey

About fifteen years ago, my cholesterol levels started rising, and I was experiencing more post-exercise soreness. After a colleague mentioned wild Alaskan salmon oil, I decided to try it alongside other lifestyle changes.

Over several months, my LDL cholesterol dropped 22 points, and my recovery improved. However, I also modified my diet significantly during this period - reducing omega-6 rich oils, increasing vegetables, and maintaining more consistent exercise habits.

While I can't isolate the supplement's specific contribution, the combination of changes produced measurable results in my lab work and how I felt.

Supplement Selection Considerations

Based on my experience with patients, several factors seem important when evaluating omega-3 supplements:

Purity and testing are crucial. Look for third-party testing for heavy metals and contaminants. IFOS certification represents rigorous quality standards.

Freshness matters significantly. Rancid omega-3s may not only be ineffective but potentially problematic. Quality supplements shouldn't have strong fishy odors.

Molecular form may affect absorption. Some research suggests triglyceride forms may be better absorbed than ethyl ester forms⁴.

Source variety offers options. Fish oil, krill oil, and algae-based supplements all have different profiles that may suit different individuals.

Realistic Expectations

It's important to maintain perspective about omega-3s. While cardiovascular research shows promise, the evidence for other health areas is still developing. The large VITAL study, for instance, suggested cardiovascular benefits but didn't demonstrate major effects on cancer or cognitive decline⁵.

Individual responses vary considerably based on genetics, diet, existing health conditions, and other factors that aren't always predictable.

A Practical Approach

When patients ask about omega-3s, I typically suggest:

Consider baseline testing to understand current omega-3 levels and inflammatory markers.

Prioritize food sources when possible. Regular fatty fish consumption is ideal, though many people find consistent dietary changes challenging.

Focus on quality rather than just quantity when selecting supplements.

Allow adequate time for potential benefits. Meaningful changes typically require 2-3 months of consistent use.

Plan for follow-up to assess response and make adjustments if needed.

Final Thoughts

After twenty years of clinical practice, I've seen omega-3 supplements serve as helpful tools for some patients, particularly regarding cardiovascular health and inflammatory conditions. However, they work best as part of comprehensive health approaches rather than standalone solutions.

Anyone considering omega-3 supplementation should work with qualified healthcare providers who can evaluate their complete health picture, recommend appropriate testing, and help set realistic expectations.

Remember that supplements are designed to complement, not replace, healthy lifestyle practices.

Dr. Rob Letizia practices at Spectrum Therapeutics. This article represents educational information only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual responses to supplements vary, and healthcare guidance is recommended before making supplement decisions.

References:

Hu Y, et al. Marine omega-3 supplementation and cardiovascular disease. J Am Heart Assoc. 2019;8(19):e013543.
Kris-Etherton PM, et al. Fish consumption and omega-3 fatty acids. Circulation. 2002;106(21):2747-57.
Simopoulos AP. The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomed Pharmacother. 2002;56(8):365-79.
Dyerberg J, et al. Bioavailability of marine n-3 fatty acid formulations. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2010;83(3):137-41.
Manson JE, et al. Marine n-3 fatty acids and prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer. N Engl J Med. 2019;380(1):23-32.