If you've never seen a physiotherapist before, it's natural to wonder what will happen. Knowing what to expect can make the first visit easier.
Before you arrive
Bring:
- Any doctor's referral letters
- Scan or X-ray reports, if you have them
- A list of your medications
- Details of any surgery, including the date and type
- Glasses, if you need them for reading
Wear: Loose, comfortable clothing that lets the physiotherapist see and move the area being treated. For example, shorts for knee problems, or a vest top for shoulder problems.
The conversation
The first part is a detailed conversation. Your physiotherapist will ask about:
- Where the pain is and what it feels like
- When and how it started
- What makes it better or worse
- How it affects your daily life, work, sleep and hobbies
- Your general health, medications and past injuries
- Your goals: what you want to get back to doing
They will also ask some screening questions about your general health, such as weight changes, bladder and bowel function and night pain. These check for anything that may need a doctor's attention.
The physical examination
Next, the physiotherapist will examine you. This may include:
- Watching how you move, stand and walk
- Checking how far your joints move
- Testing strength, flexibility and balance
- Feeling the area for tenderness
- Checking nerves: sensation, reflexes and strength
Tell them if anything is too painful. You can ask to stop at any time.
The explanation and plan
The physiotherapist will explain:
- What they think is causing your problem
- What treatment they recommend
- Roughly how long recovery might take
- What you can do at home
Treatment may start straight away
Often, you'll begin treatment in the first session: hands-on therapy, exercises, or advice on positions and activities.
Home exercises
Expect to leave with a few exercises to do at home. These are an important part of your recovery.
Ask questions
Don't be afraid to ask anything. Understanding your problem is part of getting better.
This article is general advice and can't diagnose you. A physio can examine you and tell you what's right for your body, so message or call us if you're unsure.
Talk to a physio about this
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