If you’ve sustained an injury or developed an illness that causes pain or difficulty with mobility, then it may be a good idea to book an appointment with a physical therapist. When you visit a physical therapist, they’ll be able to assess your specific situation, and provide focused treatments and exercises to assist in returning you to your previous level of mobility and function. But, for those that have never had a visit to a physical therapist, it can be a little daunting. You may be asking: what should you expect from your first appointment at a physical therapist? In this post from the Biomotion PT blog, we’ll be walking you through what you should expect when you make your first visit to a physical therapist.
Your First Appointment – Also Known As The Initial Evaluation
Upon your first visit to a physical therapist, you’ll undergo what’s known as an initial evaluation. During this first appointment, the physical therapist will spend time learning about your condition, your previous function and mobility levels, and exactly how the condition is affecting your life. This is the ultimate goal of your first appointment, and from here, your physical therapist will begin putting together a treatment plan to address your specific issues. There are a few considerations to make before you arrive at the first appointment – read on to learn more.
Preparing For Your First Physical Therapy Appointment
Before your initial physical therapy appointment, there are some preparations you should consider. The first thing you should do is write down the important facts about the history of your injury, illness, or condition. By writing the most important information down, you’re less likely to miss or forget key points. Ahead of your appointment, try to have a solid answer for the following questions:
- When, and how did your issue begin?
- Prior to the injury, what was the functional mobility status of the affected area?
- How often do you experience symptoms?
- How is the issue changing, if it has changed?
- What makes your issue feel better or worse?
These are the kinds of questions that your physical therapist will ask. Additionally, make sure to prepare a list of medications and surgeries you’ve had in the past in relation to that area of your body.
What To Wear To Your First Physical Therapist Appointment
As the name “physical” therapist suggests, be prepared to move around quite a bit during your first physical therapy session. Keeping this in mind, choose an outfit that is easy to move around in. For instance, if you’re experiencing pain in your arm, be sure to wear a shirt that allows easy access to your shoulder and arm – skip the sweater or jacket if you can. Alternatively, if you’re experiencing hip, knee, or ankle pain, consider wearing shorts so the physical therapist can easily access the affected area.
What Will Happen During The Initial Examination?
Once you and your physical therapist discuss your condition, the initial examination will begin. Your physical therapist will focus on measuring the impairments that may be causing your problem or affected by the injury you’ve sustained. Common measurements that your physical therapist will take include:
- Tests of strength
- Functional mobility tests
- Balance
- Palpation
- Range Of Motion, or ROM measurements
- Neurological screening assessments
During your examination, the PT will provide you with clear instructions on what to expect and what to do. Once the exam is complete, your physical therapist will get to work on your treatment plan. On your next visit to the physical therapist, you’ll be ready to get into the groove of your treatment and on the road to recovery.
Looking For A Physical Therapist In Schertz, TX? Trust Biomotion PT
At Biomotion PT, we have years of experience working with patients that have experienced injuries and illnesses of all kinds. Whether you’re an athlete who’s been injured in a game, or a senior who broke their hip, we can be of assistance in getting you back to your previous state of functional mobility. Our physical therapists proudly serve Schertz, TX and the surrounding areas. Want to learn more or schedule an appointment? Give us a call at 210-659-4333 or contact us online.
