What to expect

Ongoing treatment varies from one individual to another, but there are some general expectations for anyone starting physical therapy (PT). During your initial evaluation, your physical therapist will dedicate time to understand your condition, assess your prior level of function, and evaluate how your condition impacts your daily life. Additionally, they will take precise measurements to identify the factors contributing to your issue.

How do I prepare for my first appointment?

Before your first physical therapy appointment, make sure to record essential details about your condition. This will help ensure that you don’t miss important information.

How and when did your condition start, how frequently do symptoms reoccur?
What makes your sympthoms worse and what makes them better?
What was your functional level before the injury and what are your expectations from physical therapy?

Please also bring a list of your medications, including any that may affect sensitivity to cold, heat, or light (photosensitivity), which could impact your therapy. Tell your physical therapist about any chronic health issues, surgeries, or past procedures.

Do I need to bring a PT Referral?

Washington State operates under a direct access policy, which means that a formal referral is not required for physical therapy. However, if you intend to seek insurance reimbursement, we strongly recommend obtaining a referral before scheduling your visit. This referral can be obtained from your primary care physician or the specialist overseeing your medical condition.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Anticipate an active first physical therapy session, so opt for comfortable clothing that facilitates ease of movement; many prefer workout attire. If you’re dealing with shoulder pain, choose a shirt that provides access to your shoulder and arm. For hip, knee, or ankle pain, wearing shorts is advisable.

If you have an appointment for a gait analysis, wear your regular daily shoes. However, if it’s a running gait analysis, make sure to bring your running shoes.

Our clinic offers comfortable private changing space for your convenience.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Following the discussion of your condition, your physical therapist will proceed with an initial evaluation. During this examination, your PT will primarily focus on assessing impairments that may be contributing to your issue or that could be influenced by your injury.

Typical measurements taken during a physical therapy examination include: palpation, range of motion (ROM) measurements, strength tests, special tests, functional mobility assessment, balance evaluation, neurological screening tests, etc. Throughout the examination, your physical therapist should provide insights into what may be contributing positively or negatively to your condition.

Following your exam, your PT creates a treatment plan, discussing goals and the rehab process with you. Treatment starts immediately during the first appointment. Treatment may include manual therapy, soft tissue and joint mobilization, creation of the exercise program, and may involve modalities like ultrasound, infrared, or electrical stimulation. Your PT prescribes tailored exercises for home practice.

They’ll guide visit frequency based on your pain and mobility, emphasizing consistency for optimal results. Ask about realistic improvement goals and maintain a positive yet practical outlook.

What happens if I cancel my appointment?

Your appointment time has been reserved just for you. Keeping all your appointments is an integral part of your recovery. If you do need to cancel an appointment, please be aware of our requirement of a least 24-hour notice. Failure to cancel your appointment with more than 24-hour notice will result in a $75.00 fee.