Physiotherapy combines manual therapy, exercises and recommendations to treat a wide range of injuries and illnesses in the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapists normally use exercises, massage, stretches, manual manipulation and ultrasound of joints for pain relief and improved physical mobility. A combination of these methods will be used by the physiotherapist in several sessions after completing your first assessment. Before you go to your initial appointment, you should be prepared and knowledgeable about what to expect. Here are some things you should know:

You Need to Bring Some Important Things

When you go for your first physiotherapy appointment, you should be wearing a garment that lets you strip an area of your body that needs to be evaluated. It is advisable to wear leggings, cotton shorts, and t-shirts. Aside from that, if you were recommended by a doctor or professional, make sure to bring your prescription or request form and results of any examination.

The First Appointment

When you attend your first appointment, the physiotherapist will get a complete understanding of where the discomfort is coming from and do a complete examination. You should bring any important documents because you will be asked about your general health and medical history. You will then be asked to perform a couple of movements to assess your mobility level. You might also be asked to take a few steps so the physician can check if your gait is affected by your condition.  

Discussing Your Assessment

This is the time when the physiotherapist will talk about your condition and explain it to you. They will discuss with you the affected structures, which treatment plan is appropriate for you and the exercises you are required to perform at home. In addition, the physician will answer any questions you have to make everything clear to you.

Physiotherapy Treatment

The physiotherapy treatment could include soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations, trigger point therapy, dry needling, correcting your posture, exercise prescription, education and advice. This does not necessarily mean you will do all of these, because the physiotherapist will decide which treatments are the most effective for you. Keep in mind that they are not compulsory and you can always opt out if you do not prefer a specific treatment.

You can now go for your first physiotherapy appointment without feeling nervous or scared because you already know what to expect. Remember that you should always listen to your physician to have a quick recovery.   

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