Virtual Physical Therapy for Bariatric Support

You want to move. Maybe you're not sure what's safe, or every time you've tried, something got in the way; pain, fatigue, or frustration with lack of results. Maybe movement has felt more like a punishment than something that could actually feel good.

For many people navigating bariatric care and life with a larger body, movement has been wrapped up in shame, anti-fat bias and one-size-fits-all advice. The healthcare system hasn't always been kind to you, and that matters.

At ReStory, we start where you are.


Whether you're preparing for surgery, recovering from it, or just wanting to move more freely, care is built around your body, your history, and what feels both safe and possible for you right now.

Navigating Bariatric Recovery and Body Changes


Bariatric care often involves physical changes that deserve specialized support. As your body composition shifts, so does your center of gravity, your joint mechanics, and the way everyday movement feels. Here, you'll find support for the following common concerns:


  • Fatigue and energy fluctuations
  • Muscle loss
  • Low back, hip, and knee pain and other orthopedic conditions
  • Pelvic floor dysfunction and urinary incontinence

Care for every phase of your journey


Whether you're building strength before surgery, finding your footing in early recovery, or looking to establish movement that actually sticks long term — there's a place for you here. We work with you through each phase, at a pace that makes sense for where you are right now.


For those preparing for surgery, we focus on building the strength and mobility that support better surgical outcomes and a smoother recovery. Post-operatively, we take a structured, gradual approach that respects your body's healing timeline and never rushes the process. And for those who've felt stigmatized, or pushed too hard by providers or trainers in the past, that history is part of how we plan your care — not something you have to leave at the door.



Above all, your relationship with movement matters. We want movement to feel good in your body — something that genuinely adds to your life rather than depleting it.

Conditions We Help

Chronic, Energy-Limiting Conditions


Dr. Thobaben has worked extensively with individuals navigating complex, often misunderstood conditions such as Long COVID, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and POTS. Her approach respects your limits, helps you master pacing, and prioritizes symptom management—so you can rebuild function without the cycle of pushing and crashing.

Bariatric Support


If you’re preparing for or recovering from bariatric surgery—or pursuing non-surgical weight loss—you deserve movement guidance that feels empowering and attainable. With board certification in Orthopedics and over 10 years of experience in bariatric care, Dr. Thobaben is uniquely equipped to help you overcome barriers and build a sustainable movement practice—without shame or pressure.

Chronic Pain


If you’ve been living with pain for months or years, you’re not alone—and you haven’t failed. While you may have already tried PT, injections, or surgery without lasting relief, there is still hope. Dr. Thobaben has completed advanced training with the leading experts in chronic pain, and welcomes all levels of complexity to her practice. Through virtual care, you can gain strength, mobility, and powerful skills to reduce pain.

wellness

Movement Coaching

Movement Coaching at ReStory offers empowering, one-on-one support, incorporating enjoyable, sustainable movement that improves your physical well-being without overextending or compromising your recovery. For those navigating a bariatric journey and/or finding stability in their chronic illness, movement can feel overwhelming. While honoring your body's capacity today, acknowledging your full health history, and relationship with movement, we will build your confidence and a routine that aligns with your goals.

We Offer Complimentary Consultations

Book your free consultation with Dr. Thobaben to share your goals and explore how ReStory can support your healing journey.

Bariatric Support FAQ's

  • When should I start physical therapy after bariatric surgery?

    Guided movement can typically begin within a few weeks of surgery once cleared by your surgeon. Pre-operative care can begin anytime in preparation for your surgery.

  • Can virtual PT help with joint pain?

    Yes. We provide specific exercises to help your joints and muscles adapt to rapid changes in body mechanics and weight distribution.

  • Do I need specialized equipment for virtual sessions?

    No. Most programs are designed around bodyweight movements and items you already have at home. We focus on attainable, low-barrier movement.

  • Is this covered by insurance?

    ReStory is an out-of-network provider, allowing us to offer dedicated one-on-one sessions with Dr. Thobaben rather than using assistants or technicians. While we provide superbills for potential insurance reimbursement, our model often requires fewer visits—typically transitioning from once a week to once a month. This focused approach makes the cost comparable to traditional clinics, especially for those with high-deductible plans.

  • What makes ReStory different from a standard personal trainer?

    Personal trainers are great at what they do — but what you're navigating goes beyond fitness. Dr. Thobaben is a physical therapist who considers the whole person — bringing expertise in surgical recovery, orthopedics, pelvic health, bariatrics, and complex chronic health conditions to every session. This means your care will be informed by the full complexity of your health history–not just your fitness goals.