For some people, starting physiotherapy may be a completely new experience as they have never had to deal with physiotherapists before. If you have an idea of what you can expect to do on your first session of physiotherapy, it will be a lot easier for you to feel at ease and prepared.

What is Physiotherapy Assessment?

At your first visit, there will most likely be a discussion of your problems. The physiotherapist will ask questions about the onset of symptoms, what activities make them better or worse and how this affects your life. There may be the need to ask questions about surgeries, injuries, medical problems, medications and more that affect your life.

There must be candor and transparency in that conversation. Information on your symptoms and daily activities will help the physiotherapist get a better understanding of the situation.

Physical Examination

After talking with the physiotherapist, your Physiotherapist might undertake a physical examination. It may include an examination of your posture, range of motion, muscle strength, balance, coordination, mobility in the joints and gait, depending on the problem.

The therapist will ask you to do some simple movements or exercises in order to check your body’s movements. Physiotherapy can also involve the physiotherapist moving the joints or certain sections of your body.

Treatment plan

Treatment may involve many exercises, manual therapy techniques, movements training, education and activity modification.

In addition, you may get exercises that you have to do at home between visits. Adhering to those suggestions on a regular basis may be an important part of your rehab as well as future health and wellness.

Your physiotherapist can assist you to set realistic and individual goals to suit your condition, lifestyle and recovery requirements. These goals can be related to pain management, strengthening, increasing flexibility and restoring movement.

Tips for your first physiotherapy appointment

Before you schedule your first appointment with your physiotherapist, it is important that you wear loose fitting clothes so that the body parts troubling you can easily be accessed. Arrive early for your appointment with any necessary medical records that you might have. Be prepared to share your medical history and symptoms with your physiotherapist.

Come prepared with details about your symptoms, your medical history, and treatments you may have had previously as well as the questions that you want answered.

There is no need to stress out about having to know exactly what is going on beforehand because the aim of your physiotherapy assessment is to assess your condition and determine how best to proceed.

Making the Best of Your Assessment

This is your first chance to learn more about your condition and take the next step towards getting back your ability to move and function properly. Open communication and following the recommended exercises will get you on the road to recovery.