Now that you’ve made the decision to seek care from a local physical therapist, it’s time to prepare for the visit. Getting ready for your first physical therapy visit can bring up many questions, especially if you’re experiencing pain or recovering from an injury.
At East Athens Physical Therapy’s newest physical therapy clinic in Oconee, our dedicated team is here to make your experience as comfortable and effective as possible.
This guide will cover what to expect and how to prepare for your first PT session, so you can feel confident and ready to start your journey toward better health.
7 Tips to Prepare for Your Physical Therapy Appointment
1. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Physical therapy involves movement, so wear clothing that allows for easy mobility. Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothes, like athletic wear, that let you stretch and exercise without restriction.
If you’re dealing with a specific injury, your therapist may need access to that area for assessment, so shorts, tank tops, or other accessible clothing may be best.
2. Bring Relevant Medical Information
To ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your needs, bring any relevant medical records, imaging (such as X-rays or MRIs), and a list of any medications you’re taking.
Sharing this information with your therapist gives them a complete view of your health, allowing for the most effective therapy plan.
3. Arrive Early to Complete Paperwork
Arriving about 15 minutes early will give you time to complete any necessary paperwork, such as medical history, insurance information, and consent forms.
You can also use this time to ask questions about your benefits and discuss your goals for therapy.
4. Know Your Goals and Pain Points
Think about your specific goals for physical therapy. Are you aiming to reduce pain, improve mobility, or recover after surgery? Be ready to discuss your pain levels, where you feel discomfort, and any activities that make your symptoms better or worse.
Having clear goals can help your therapist create a personalized plan that aligns with what you want to achieve.
5. Expect a Comprehensive Evaluation
During your first visit, your therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your needs. This may involve assessing your range of motion, strength, balance, and pain levels.
Our Oconee team uses this information to build a customized treatment plan just for you, which could include exercises, manual therapy, and advanced tools like the Neubie device if appropriate for your condition.
6. Be Open to Asking Questions
Your first session is a great time to ask questions about your treatment plan, expected progress, and at-home exercises.
Physical therapy is a collaborative process, so understanding your role in recovery is key. If your therapist recommends tools like HRV therapy or specific exercises, ask about the benefits and how these can help you reach your goals.
7. Plan for Your Next Steps
Before you leave, your therapist will review your treatment plan, which may include exercises to do at home and scheduling future appointments. Our team at the Oconee location will work with you to find convenient times for follow-up sessions to keep you on track.
Regular sessions are essential for making steady progress, so having a schedule in place can be very helpful.
Why Choose East Athens Physical Therapy in Oconee?
Our Oconee physical therapists provide a welcoming and personalized approach to physical therapy. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or improving athletic performance, our experienced therapists are committed to helping you reach your health goals.
We use advanced techniques and tools to ensure you have the most effective recovery experience possible.
Schedule Your First Physical Therapy Appointment
If you’re ready to begin your physical therapy journey, we’re here to help every step of the way. Visit our website to learn more, call us at (706) 521-8888, or schedule your appointment online to get started at our Oconee location.