If you have never been to physical therapy before, you may be wondering what to expect and how to prepare for your first session. In this article we’ll discuss tips on what to do BEFORE your appointment to make the most of your session.
Physical therapy is a form of treatment that aims to improve your function, mobility, and quality of life through exercises, manual therapy, education, and modalities. It can help you recover from injuries, surgeries, chronic conditions, and more.
Before your appointment:
Depending on your condition and availability, you may need to schedule your appointment in advance or as soon as possible. You can call, email, or visit the physical therapy clinic to book your session. You may also need a referral from your doctor depending on your insurance and state regulations.
You will need to provide some information to your physical therapist, such as your medical history, current medications, symptoms, goals, and insurance details. You can also bring any relevant documents, such as X-rays, MRI reports, or surgical notes. This will help your physical therapist understand your condition and design a personalized treatment plan for you.
You will need to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely and expose the area that needs treatment. For example, if you have a knee problem, you may want to wear shorts or pants that can be rolled up. You may also want to wear sneakers or other supportive shoes that are suitable for exercise.
You will need to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to fill out some paperwork, such as consent forms, intake forms, and questionnaires. You may also need to pay a copay or deductible, depending on your insurance. Arriving early will also give you time to relax and get familiar with the clinic environment.
We hope this series helps you prepare for your first physical therapy session. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us—we’re always happy to help.
Check out the rest of the series: