So you’ve scheduled your first physical therapy appointment…now what?
The first day of physical therapy, the PT will perform an evaluation of symptoms to figure out what’s going on
with your muscles and bones, and will make a plan for treatment in weeks to come.
Here’s are some tips to be best prepared for the first day:
Pay attention to your symptoms prior to the visit
Your PT will be asking you questions to like “what time of day is the pain worse”, “what activities increase the pain”, “how far does the pain travel down your arm/leg”, and “what makes your pain better?”. This helps us to figure out what may be causing the pain. Before your first session happens, pay attention to when the pain is worse, what activities provoke the pain, and what, if anything, makes it better. Think about how you want to describe your pain. Common pain descriptors include sharp/stabbing, dull ache, deep ache, burning, and tingling. This helps the PT try to distinguish whether pain is muscular, neurological, or vascular in nature.
Think of some goals to get back to
Physical therapy focuses on getting you back to functional activities, and we write goals to make sure we stay on track to getting you back to daily life without restriction. Before your first appointment, notice activities that are painful and limited that normally don’t cause pain. Take note of how long you’re able to do tasks before pain starts. For example, notice how long you’re able to walk before your back starts to hurt, or how long you’re able to sit at your desk
before your headache starts. This will help your PT to get an idea of your current functional level so they can set attainable goals.
Clothing to wear
If possible, it is a good idea to wear stretchy, comfortable clothes. You will likely be moving in different directions during the PT’s assessment, and sometimes tighter, more rigid clothing can restrict movement. If possible, wear clothing that will allow for the painful region to be exposed and palpated at some point. PTs gain a lot of information from palpating (firmly touching) painful areas, and it’s easier for us to feel what’s going on if we are touching skin instead of clothing.
Will physical therapy hurt?
Discomfort may be a more accurate word than pain, but truthfully, yes, there may sometimes be a bit of pain on the first day of physical therapy. In order to rule in or rule out which muscles/tendons/ligaments are dysfunctional, we have to provoke pain. Not only does this help us to figure out what’s going on in your body, but it helps us to make a plan that is best suited to you. Rest assured, there is a reason for the uncomfortable aspects of a physical therapy evaluation, and your PT will move through them as quickly as possible to get you on the path to feeling better.
Digital Tools and Apps: What to Know Before Your First Visit
Technology has changed how PT works in several helpful ways. Many practices — including Joint Ventures — use a home exercise program (HEP) app that allows your physical therapist to assign exercises digitally, complete with videos demonstrating proper form. You’ll typically receive a link or download invitation after your first appointment. Having a smartphone or tablet that you can bring to sessions or check at home will help you stay on top of your home program between visits. Additionally, many practices use an online patient portal for intake forms, medical history, and insurance verification — completing these before your first appointment reduces waiting room paperwork and gives your PT more time to work with you directly.
Direct Access to PT in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a direct access state, meaning you do not need a physician’s referral to begin physical therapy. You can schedule a PT evaluation directly without first seeing your primary care doctor or a specialist. This is particularly helpful for new injuries, when you want to start care quickly, or when you want a PT’s opinion before deciding whether to see a surgeon. Note that some insurance plans still require a referral for coverage — it’s worth confirming your plan’s requirements with our administrative team before your appointment, as we verify benefits for you before your first visit.
Good Questions to Ask at Your First Visit
Your PT is your partner in recovery — don’t hesitate to ask questions. Some useful ones to consider: “What do you think is causing my symptoms, and what is your diagnosis?” “How many visits do you anticipate I’ll need?” “What can I do at home between sessions to help myself get better?” “Are there any activities I should avoid, and for how long?” “What is a realistic timeline for returning to [specific activity or sport]?” “Is there anything that would suggest I need to see another specialist, like an orthopedic surgeon or neurologist?” The best PTs welcome questions and see them as a sign that you’re engaged in your own care.
-Becky Rivera, PT, DPT
