How to Make the Most of Your Visit with a Physical Therapist

You either have visited a physical therapist for an injury or will at some point in your life. When you do, it is important for you to get the most out of your appointment.  Here are some tips to help you on your rehabilitation journey. 

1.      Be Prepared to Talk About Your Pain

For a physical therapist to better understand your problem, it is important to for them to understand how your pain is affecting your daily living.  Where is your pain?  What makes it better?  What makes it worse?  Have you had treatment for this problem?  Did it work?  Be able to describe your pain to the best of your ability.  All these are important variables for a physical therapist to help determine the best course of treatment and having prepared answers will facilitate a more comprehensive examination.

2.       Have Goals in Mind

Most often, patients schedule appointments with physical therapists once their pain or nagging injuries have gotten to the point of limiting activities.  It is important that we know what activities you want to return to so that we can tailor your rehabilitation program and get you back to activities as quickly and as safely as possible. 

3.       Be Prepared for a Detailed Examination

It is important for physical therapists to complete a thorough examination.  Often times your primary complaint may be the results of dysfunctional patterns elsewhere.  For an example, you may have experienced plantar fasciitis at one point in your life.  Your course of treatment may have included direct treatment to your foot and ankle but it may also include hip mobility exercises, hip strengthening activities and core stabilization.  For a physical therapist to determine this, it will require an examination of your hip and low back and not just for foot and ankle.  Wear comfortable clothing so the physical therapist can perform a comprehensive examination and be prepared to move. 

4.       Physical Therapy is Not Just Performing “Exercises”

A physical therapist should provide you a comprehensive treatment plan that will include patient education, manual therapy, and exercise.   Remember a physical therapist is with you 1-2 hours per week.  There are 166 additional hours.   The physical therapist will help you navigate those 166 hours to optimize your healing and restore your normal function.  Be prepared to make some potential modifications to your routine.  It is likely that your routine or predictable movement patterns have led to some of your problems.  Come with an open-mind and be flexible with change. 

5.       Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions

It is important that you are an active learner in the process.  The more engaged you are and the more you understand what is causing the problem, the more likely you will be able to help solve your problem.  Ask questions.  Understand what is causing your pain and make sure you have a clear understanding of what the plan of care is moving forward. 

I hope that these tips will help you get the most of your visit with a physical therapist.  If you have questions feel free to reach out and schedule a Discovery Visit at your convenience.