What to Expect on Your First Consultation with one of our Physiotherapists
Posted on 18th May 2023 at 14:06
Our Chartered physiotherapists are fully registered healthcare professional (HCPC) who helps people to improve their movement and function. They can treat a wide range of conditions, including muscle pain, joint pain, and sports and other injuries.
If you are considering seeing one of our physiotherapists, it is important to know what to expect on your first consultation.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
Make an appointment. You can make an appointment with a physiotherapist by ringing one of our clinics in your area.
Bring along a list of your medications and a summary of your medical history. When you arrive for your first appointment, be sure to bring along a list of your prescribed medications and a summary of your medical history with you. This will help the physiotherapist to assess your medical conditions and help develop a treatment plan.
Answer questions. The physiotherapist will ask you several questions about your problem(s) including area of pain, mechanism of injury, or condition. Be sure to answer these questions as honestly as possible.
Undergo a physical assessment. The physiotherapist will then perform an assessment of your movement and function. This will help them to identify the cause of your problem or injury.
Develop a treatment plan. The physiotherapist will then develop a treatment plan for you. This may include Manipulations, mobilisations, stretching, massage, exercises, or other treatments they feel will help you.
Ask questions. If you have any questions about your treatment, be sure to ask the physiotherapist. They will be happy to answer your questions.
Please come dressed in the appropriate clothing (see our guide for further advice) and be prepared to undress so the physiotherapist can examine you appropriately.
What to expect from the assessment
The physiotherapist will assess your movement and function in several ways. This may include:
Range of motion. The physiotherapist will assess your range of motion by asking you to move your joints through their full range of motion.
Strength. The physiotherapist will assess your strength by asking you to perform strength tests.
Balance. The physiotherapist will assess your balance by asking you to perform balance tests.
Pain. The physiotherapist will ask you about your pain and how it affects your daily life.
What to expect from the treatment
The physiotherapist will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. This may include:
Mobilisation. The physiotherapist may move your limbs or joints using manual techniques to help restore their movement.
Massage. The physiotherapist may use massage to relieve pain and tension.
Exercises. The physiotherapist may ask you to perform exercises to improve your range of motion, strength, and balance and give you a regime to do at home.
Other treatments. The physiotherapist may use other treatments, such as Acupuncture, heat/ice therapy or electrical stimulation, to relieve pain and improve your function.
After your appointment, you may feel some pain or discomfort. This is normal and should not last for more than a few days. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact the physiotherapist or clinic as soon as possible.
Share this post: