First Visit Preparation
What Should I Expect During My First Visit?
Your first visit consists of information gathering with the physical therapist, as we review your answers to our questionnaire, as well as testing you for things such as loss of strength and mobility. Wearing comfortable, loose clothing assists your therapist in gaining access to the area that we will be looking at as well as allowing for greater mobility during testing. Your therapist will take things slow at the first session if needed due to pain. Treatment may be started at the first session, along with establishing a treatment plan and goals. Also be aware that, following this first visit, you may experience an increase in symptoms for a short period of time, as we are stirring up the structures causing the pain. Let your therapist know if this is of specific concern for you.
Should I Bring A Medications List?
It is helpful to us to know what medication you are taking. This should include any natural or herbal supplements. If you are taking multiple medications, it is always a good idea to keep a current list with the dosages in your wallet anyway. Tuck it in behind your license for easy access for emergency personnel if you are in an accident. If you are a Medicare patient, your insurance requires that we go over this list with you in some detail.
Each new patient will be sent an email with a link about two or three days before their appointment. You can click on the link and there will be a medical history questionnaire section that enables you to upload all medication details. Please make sure to fill this out before your first visit.
Should I Take Pain Medication Before My Appointment?
If you are concerned about your pain, and it is time for your normal dosage before coming to physical therapy, then by all means use your medication. We will encourage you to use your medications especially the first day or so following the initial evaluation, just because we may be stirring up symptoms during the evaluation. Be aware of how you generally react to your medications, however, as we do need you to be mentally clear during the session as we gather information regarding your complaints.
What Kind Of Tests Will Be Performed?
Your physical therapist will test for things like range of motion, strength, numbness and tenderness to touch. We may perform more specific testing for your diagnosis, such as ligament testing for the knee or ankle, or motion testing for the spine, for example.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to perform some exercises, and the therapist may need to move you around during testing and treatment. For example, bring shorts if you are coming in for work on your knee.
How Long Will My Appointment Be?
Plan on your appointments lasting a minimum of 40 minutes. You will receive one on one attention from your provider during this time for your treatment, so please turn off your cell phone unless you need to have it on for a specific reason.