Initial Physiotherapy Assessment – What to Expect
We have spoken about what happens at a brace fitting appointment recently on our blog, but what happens at an initial assessment appointment? An Initial Physiotherapy Assessment can feel daunting, but knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety. At Elite Therapy, we aim to make your experience as smooth and beneficial as possible.
What Happens at an Initial Assessment Appointment?
Your physiotherapist will begin with a comprehensive initial physiotherapy assessment, asking about your medical history, current symptoms, and any previous injuries or treatments. This helps them understand your condition better and tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.
They may perform physical tests to evaluate your range of motion, strength, and other relevant factors during the initial physiotherapy assessment.
Initial Treatment
Based on the initial assessment, your physiotherapist will discuss a treatment plan with you. This plan may include exercises, manual therapy, advice on posture and movement, and possibly recommendations for further tests or referrals.
Depending on your condition, your session may include hands-on treatment such as massage, stretching, or joint mobilisation. These techniques aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.
Advice and Exercises
You will likely be given exercises to do at home, along with advice on how to manage your condition. Following these recommendations is crucial for your recovery.
What to Wear to the Initial Assessment Appointment?
Wearing the right clothing can make your appointment more comfortable and effective, we recommend you wear loose-fitting clothing to your assessment
This allows easy movement and access for your physiotherapist to assess and treat the affected area during the assessment.
- Lower Limb Issues: Wear shorts to provide easy access to your legs.
- Upper Limb Issues: Wear a sports top or a sleeveless shirt to facilitate the examination and treatment of your arms and shoulders during the initial physiotherapy assessment.
What to Bring?
Bringing certain documents and items can enhance the quality of your initial physiotherapy assessment:
- Medical Reports and Referrals: Any previous reports, MRI scans, or ultrasound images can provide valuable insights into your condition.
- List of Medications: A list of any medications you are currently taking.
- Referral from GP: While a doctor’s referral is not necessary, having one can provide additional context for your physiotherapist during the initial physiotherapy assessment.
Skip the Waiting Line
One of the biggest advantages of seeing a physiotherapist directly is bypassing long waiting times for a GP referral. Many patients have benefited from getting quicker access to care. As one of our patients shared:
“I skipped waiting 12 months for a referral from my GP. The initial physiotherapy assessment sped up the understanding of my issue, and I was able to get a referral with all the necessary information ready.”
Validation and Advice
An initial physiotherapy assessment not only helps in speeding up the process but also provides validation for your issue. You’ll receive professional advice on managing your condition and steps you can take to improve your health.
Book your initial appointment today by calling us on 02476 591 600 or by booking online Here