Walking into a physical therapy evaluation can sometimes seem a little overwhelming if you do not know what to expect and have never completed therapy before. Although each therapist treats a little bit differently, here are some general guidelines that you can expect on your very first visit with a therapist at ProActive Physical Therapy.
Upon starting the evaluation, the therapist will take the time to collect a thorough history of your present medical condition. This may include information related to your past medical history, current condition, and how your injury is affecting your function and everyday life. The therapist will also take several objective measurements on this first visit. These measurements may include range of motion, strength, balance, flexibility, etc. The purpose of these measurements is provide baseline information so we can track progress, set appropriate goals, and come up with an appropriate plan of care. The therapist will then identify specifically what may be contributing to your symptoms based on the measurements they have taken, and discuss this information with you, including what to expect from future treatments and ways to improve your injury/pain. You will also most likely be taught and given some basic exercises as part of a home program that will help fit into your overall plan of care as well. Finally, you can expect the therapist to initiate some form of treatment for your condition, which may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching, and/or some form of modality like ice or heat.
As the patient, your input, questions/concerns, and functional goals are always our priority and will be addressed not only on your first visit, but throughout the course of your treatment. For more information, or to schedule your initial evaluation with a therapist, please contact us at ProActive Physical Therapy!