Fix Desk Posture & Chronic Pain
Cash-based physical therapy in Old Town Alexandria for working adults dealing with neck, shoulder, and back pain.
By Daniela Zapata, PT, DPT.
About Your provider
My name is Daniela, and I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in helping working adults fix the chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain that comes from spending hours at a desk.
As someone who understands the demands of a professional lifestyle, I know how frustrating it is when pain interferes with your work, workouts, and daily life. My approach focuses on identifying the root cause of your pain- not just treating symptoms- through comprehensive movement assessments and personalized treatment plans.
I take the time to understand how your daily habits, work setup, and movement patterns contribute to your pain, then give you practical solutions you can actually implement.
Education:
Doctorate in Physical Therapy - George Washington University
B.S. in Neuroscience - Johns Hopkins University
Continuing education in corrective exercise, movement system impairments, and functional movement screens
For fun:
Salsa dancing
Running- first half marathon coming up!
Exploring Alexandria with my two dogs
Binge-watching Netflix
Desk-Related Pain
Chronic neck and shoulder pain
Upper back tension and stiffness
Headaches from poor posture
Carpal tunnel and wrist pain
Lower back pain from prolonged sitting
Forward head posture
Conditions Treated
Common Orthopedic Issues
Hip pain and Sciatica
Knee pain and dysfunction
Ankle sprains and instability
Tendonitis and overuse injuries
Post-injury rehab
Running-related injuries
Treatment Strategies
Hands-on techniques to release muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain. I use targeted manual therapy to address tight neck and shoulder muscles, restricted thoracic spine mobility, and trigger points that develop from prolonged sitting and poor ergonomics.
Manual Therapy
Customized strengthening and mobility exercises designed to correct postural imbalances and build resilience. I'll teach you exercises you can do at your desk, at home, or in the gym to maintain the progress we make in sessions and prevent pain from returning.
Corrective Exercise
Comprehensive assessment of how your daily habits and work setup contribute to your pain. I analyze your sitting posture, workstation ergonomics, and movement patterns to identify the root cause of dysfunction - not just treat symptoms.
Postural Assessment
Practical strategies to manage and prevent pain long-term. You'll learn how to modify your workspace, recognize early warning signs, and implement daily habits that keep you pain-free without needing to rely on constant PT visits.
Ergonomics & Education
Your Path to Pain-Free Movement
Initial Assessment (60 min)
Comprehensive evaluation of your movement, posture, work setup, and pain patterns. We identify the root cause and create your personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Sessions (60 Min)
Hands-on manual therapy, corrective exercises, and real-time feedback to address your specific issues. Sessions are scheduled based on your needs and goals.
Home Program & support
You'll get a customized exercise program and ergonomic recommendations to maintain progress between sessions. Text/email support for questions as you implement changes.
Most clients see significant improvement in 4-8 sessions, with tools to manage their pain independently moving forward.
Pricing & Packages
Initial Evaluation
Comprehensive posture assessment, medical history review, goal setting, and personalized treatment plan. Includes hands-on treatment and your first exercise program. No referral required.
$150.00
Treatment Session
One-on-one treatment session including manual therapy, exercise progression, postural re-education, and program updates based on your progress. Initial evaluation required.
$120.00
Discounted rates available for clients committing to multiple sessions. Details provided during your initial evaluation based on your treatment plan.
Multi-Session Packages
HSA/FSA funds accepted as payment. Superbills provided for potential out-of-network insurance reimbursement (coverage varies by plan).
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No, I operate on a cash-based model, which means sessions are not billed through insurance. This allows for longer, more personalized one-on-one care without insurance restrictions or referral requirements.
You'll receive a detailed receipt (superbill) after each session that you can submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your plan. Many clients also use HSA/FSA funds to cover sessions.
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Each session begins with discussing your progress and any changes since your last visit. I will guide you through targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and movement assessments tailored to your specific needs. Sessions are hands-on and collaborative. You'll understand not just what you're doing, but why it matters. You'll leave with clear takeaways and exercises to practice between visits.
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The number of sessions varies based on your condition and goals. Some clients see significant improvement in 4-6 visits, while others with chronic or complex issues may benefit from ongoing care. I will discuss a personalized treatment plan during your first session and adjust as you progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. One of the benefits of cash-based physical therapy is that you can schedule directly without a physician referral. Virginia allows direct access to physical therapy, meaning you can see me as your first point of contact for musculoskeletal issues. If your condition requires further medical evaluation, I will guide you toward the appropriate next steps.
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The studio is located at 950 N Washington Street, Suite 312, Alexandria, VA, 22314, on the third floor with elevator access.
There is free street parking available on surrounding streets. The studio is easily accessible by multiple bus lines, and a 10-minute walk from the Braddock metro stop.
You'll receive detailed access instructions when you book an appointment.
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With traditional insurance-based PT:
30-45 minute appointments where you're often handed off to aides or assistants
Cookie-cutter exercise sheets printed from a database
Bouncing between different therapists each visit with no continuity of care
Treatment dictated by insurance guidelines, not your actual goals
Waiting weeks for authorization approvals before starting treatment
Limited number of approved visits regardless of your progress
With cash-based PT:
Full 60 minutes of one-on-one time with me, every session
Personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your body, goals, and lifestyle
Consistent care with the same provider who knows your history and progress
Treatment focused on actually fixing the root problem, not just meeting visit quotas
Start immediately - no referrals, no authorization delays
Flexible scheduling that works around your life