Frequently Asked Questions

What body parts does Dr. Oseto treat?

Dr. Oseto treats the shoulder to finger tips and mid thigh to toes.  He does not treat hip and spine issues and is happy to provide referrals to other physicians.

Does Dr. Oseto offer virtual or telemedicine visits?

Yes, If you are in Washington, Oregon, California or Texas, Dr. Oseto offers telemedicine evaluations.  This can be helpful before traveling to the Seattle area for an in-person clinic visit.  You get a chance to see if we treat the problems you have and if you and Dr. Oseto are a good fit.

What insurance do you take?

We are currently contracted with Regence, First Choice and Blue Card plans that can be processed through Regence, including plans in other states outside of Washington.  Please call our office to confirm coverage.

What if you are out of network or do not take my insurance?

The clinic staff are skilled in helping patients navigate out of network benefits and reimbursement. 

Fees for clinic visits depend on the length of your appointment and can be estimated for you in advance. An initial new patient diagnostic evaluation typically runs 30 minutes. For people with multiple concerns or where hypermobility is suspected, an initial visit may run 60+ minutes. In all scenarios, Dr. Oseto's priority is conducting a through history and examination to fully address your questions and concerns.

For surgical procedures, we provide an estimate prior to scheduling. In the majority of instances, this quote will be specific to Dr. Oseto's portion of your surgery because the majority of insurance plans generally provide direct coverage for the anesthesia and facility costs. If that is not the case for you, will will assist in your estimates for these services as well.

Does your practice use AI?

In order to remain an independent thinker and stay mentally sharp, Dr. Oseto avoids the use of AI whenever possible - "use it or lose it."  However, Dr. Oseto dictates his own chart notes with Dragon transcription software, and this software uses AI.  Other than the conversion from voice-to-text, the content, conclusions and words in your chart note are entirely Dr. Oseto's.  AI is NOT used as a scribe, or to analyze your history, exam, or test results.  Your patient data is stored in the cloud by HIPAA compliant AdvancedMD EMR software.

My physical therapist thinks I might have EDS - What is that?

EDS or Ehlers Danlos Syndrome is a collection of connective tissue disorders resulting from altered collagen. The hallmark is painful, unstable joints that sublux and dislocate as well as other chronic health conditions such as autonomic dysfunction, postural orthostatic tachycardia Symdrome (POTS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), migraine headaches, thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) and CCI (see brief definitions below).

What is Autonomic Dysfunction?

The autonomic nervous system is like an autopilot that controls breathing, heart rate, body temperature and digestion in the background.  Patients with autonomic dysfunction can have mild problems or debilitating issues. There is an association with EDS but the underlying cause is unknown.  

What is POTS?

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome happens when the autonomic nervous system has difficulty regulating heart rate and blood pressure especially when someone goes from lying down to standing up.  Patient report getting light headed and/or passing out.  Treatment starts with hydration AND salt supplementation, a progressive exercise program and seeing a neurologist that specializes in POTS and autonomic dysfunction.

What is MCAS?

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is when the body has heightened sensitivity, like allergy, to everyday things.  MCAS affects more than one body system at the same time like skin (hives) and respiratory (wheezing).

What is MALS?

Median arcuate ligament syndrome occurs when the median arcuate ligment compresses the vasular and nerve supply to the gastrointestinal tract causing abdominal pain, nausea after eating, unintended weight loss and shortness of breath.  Diagnosis is noninvasive but treatment is surgery with a general or vascular surgeon to release the ligament. Dr. Oseto does not perform this surgery but can help you find a surgeon with expertise in this area.

What is TOS?

Thoracic outlet syndrome is compression of the blood vessels and nerves in the neck and shoulder area.  Symptoms range from pain, weakness in the hand/arm, numbness and a heavy feeling in the arm. Diagnosis begins with history and physical exam followed by ultrasound. Treatment begins with improving posture, neck stability and modifying activities. Dr. Oseto might refer you to a specialist for a more in-depth evaluation and possible injections. In some cases, surgery with a thoracic surgeon can be helpful.

What is CCI?

Craniocervical instability is laxity or looseness of the connection between the head and neck. Patients describe headaches, neck pain, dizziness, passing out when looking up, worsening of autonomic dysfunction. Dr. Oseto does not treat CCI but can refer you to a specialist who does.