Dr. Melanie Llanes is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, a long time yoga teacher, powerlifter and the owner of Best Self Wellness.
Best Self Wellness provides concierge wellness services, specializing in elite orthopedic and pelvic health PT, prenatal and restorative yoga as well as strength and conditioning services.
I called my company Best Self Wellness because I want you to know that you can unlock your full potential at whatever stage or transition in life you are in. Maybe you suffered an injury, are expecting a baby or had one, or maybe you are transitioning into menopause, there is a way to be the best you can, with what you have, and where you are in life.
I want my clients to overcome any limits they might have on their bodies or minds. If you leave physical therapy being exactly who you were before, then my work is far from complete. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve the best version of yourself.
Hi, I’m Dr. melanie llanes
My Approach
Dr. Melanie Llanes is Certified in Dry Needling- one modality that may be helpful in restoring function and reducing pain
As a clinician, I look at the whole person.
Even after I review your detailed medical history, I want to know your story in your own words. What do you feel has been limiting your life? What are your goals?
With your personal feedback, I perform a thorough physical assessment and create you a custom plan.
It is my goal to empower you with the knowledge and details you need to navigate your journey to your Best Self.
I utilize a multimodal approach to treatment: everyone gets a custom exercise program but depending on your symptoms you may get manual therapy such as joint mobilization or soft tissue mobilization, cupping, kinesiotaping and even dry needling. I am certified in the state of NJ to practice Dry Needling through the American Academeny of Manipulative Therapy. The goal is to have several tools in my toolbox; this, coupled with my years of clinical experience will help create a treatment that’s best suited to meet your own goals.
Orthopedic Conditions
Low back pain • Disc herniations • Vertebral stenosis • Neck pain • Radiculopathy • Hand & wrist pain • Knee pain • Pre- and post-op surgery • Rotator cuff tears • Tendonopathies • Arthritis • Tendon or ligament tears
Pelvic health
Urinary and bowel incontinence • Urgency • Pelvic pain • Sexual dysfunctions • Fertility • Menopause • Pre- and post-op surgery • Prenatal and postnatal rehabilitation
Frequently asked questions
what forms of payment do you accept?
We take HSA/FSA, Credit Card, Check, Cash
Can I submit a claim to my insurance for reimbursement?
Yes! We provide superbills which are receipts with medical codes to submit to your insurance for reimbursement. We do not guarantee reimbursement from your insurance and we do not work with/ communicate with your insurance company. Do keep in mind that your insurance company will take into account your deductible when submitting for reimbursement.
Here are some helpful tips when talking to your insurance:
Call the healthcare “Member Services” line and ask the representative “What are my out-of- network healthcare benefits for physical therapy in an out-patient setting?”
Is pre authorization required? Is there a co-payment or co-insurance? Do I have to meet my deductible? If yes, how much of my deductible have I met so far?
What can I expect during a session?
In home or in office- you get 1 on 1 care. Your therapist will have a thorough discussion to learn about your history and focus on YOUR goals. You will have an orthopedic assessment, movement assessment and if necessary a pelvic floor exam. But please know that a pelvic floor exam may be helpful but necessary. We work with your comfort level and ensure to never just “do treatments on you” but to perform treatments in a very considerate way, with your full consent and within your comfort levels. Every gets an individualized health and wellness plan and exercise program. All information is emailed to you.
what are the birth preparation sessions about?
You do not need to have any issues during pregnancy to come see us. However, you also do not need to think that your pregnancy needs to be miserable until you give birth. Our job is to learn what are the qualities that you look for in an ideal birth, how can we work towards those goals but also what can you expect when things do not go according to plan. Education is key and we also help you navigate the entire process from understanding your body to understanding how you and your partner can advocate for yourself when giving birth. We teach you how to reduce discomfort during birth and reduce injury.