What to Expect During Your First Visit
You can expect a lot of questions from your physical therapist about your health and various conditions. Try to provide detailed information that can help your therapist figure out which treatments are most suitable for you.
You will undergo a detailed examination that includes evaluation of your blood pressure, heart and respiration rates, strength, flexibility, balance, posture, and coordination. The physical therapist might closely examine the affected areas and test the mobility of your muscles and joints. He/She may also evaluate your functional activities, gait, and body mechanics.
You may also receive questions about your direct environment (home and work), activity level, health-related habits, and recreational interests. This can help the physical therapist enable you to become equally active and independent.
You will also discuss your goals for physical therapy and come up with a concrete plan. Most of the time, the physical therapist begins the treatment right after the diagnosis.
Maintaining your ability to perform daily activities is one of the primary goals of treatment. To achieve this, the physical therapist will focus on several areas, such as weakness, swelling, pain, and limited mobility. He/She will make adjustments based on your response to each treatment.
Education is a critical aspect of physical therapy. You might be taught to perform specific exercises, as well as a different approach on your work and home activities. Using these recommended techniques can minimize the pain and accelerate your recovery.
The physical therapist may also recommend special equipment, including crutches, splints, and customized footwear. He/She will show you the correct way of using the equipment to ensure your safety.
Your physical therapist may also relay details of your examination to your physician or other health care professionals. He/She will regularly monitor your progress and work on your discharge. Ask your therapist what you should do after the discharge and inform him/her if your condition worsens.
Keeping Your Appointments
- Try to arrive a few minutes early during every treatment sessions. Late arrivals may affect the schedule of your physical therapist and other patients.
- Work with your therapist in achieving your treatment goals and actively participate in the discussions.
- Always be there during scheduled appointments. Failure to cancel an appointment beforehand could result in a fee and disrupt the schedule of your therapist.
- In the event an emergency occurs, inform the clinic in advance. You should also take time reviewing the financial and cancellation policy of the clinic.
- Talk to your physical therapist if you have plans of discontinuing the treatment or changing the frequency due to financial or personal reasons.
What you put into therapy is what you will get out of it. Make the most out of every treatment session by putting in the necessary effort.
Strictly observe precautions and reminders from your therapist. These can include avoiding specific movements, restricting the use of body parts, or modifying your approach to certain activities.
Follow the therapist’s exact instructions on using special devices, such as walkers, canes, splints, and braces. Incorrect use of these devices could aggravate your condition.
Your physical therapist may recommend modifications in your house, such as safety rail installation, furniture rearrangement, and removal of throw rugs. Please make sure to comply with these recommendations. Also, follow the home program that the therapist provides you with, as this will play a big role in your recovery.
Perform your exercises based on the repetition, resistance, and frequency recommended by your therapist. Ask for clarification if any of the instructions are unclear.
Once you are done with physical therapy care, please do not forget to follow the aftercare instructions.
