Is it your first time to be treated by a physical therapist? If you suffer from pain, an injury, or have just gotten out of surgery, physical therapy can help you get back in shape. Here are some tips to help you maximize your visit with a physical therapist.
What Is a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapists are licensed medical professionals in the field of rehabilitation and pain management. They are movement experts who specialize in promoting, maintaining, or restoring physical health and function. During your visit, you may receive treatment through any of the following methods and techniques:
- Manual therapy
- Heat and cold therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Customized exercise plans
Visiting a Physical Therapist: What to Prepare
Visiting a physical therapist is a collaborative effort between the patient and specialist. Your physical therapist can help you move your body better with your hard work and active participation. Simple preparations, such as the following, will allow you to maximize your visit.
Recall Your Medical Information
During your first visit, your physical therapist will ask questions about your medical history. You will be discussing your medical concerns and goals for therapy, so it would be best to prepare all the information you may need beforehand.
Take note of the aches and pains you are experiencing. Also, observe the severity of your symptoms and the activities, movements, positions, or time they usually occur. If you are experiencing any pain, you may need to rate it from 1-10. Inform your therapist about recent accidents, injuries, or medical procedures, especially surgeries.
Your entire medical history is relevant, so do your best not to miss any details. Your physical therapist will also need to know medications you are currently taking or have taken before.
Also include information about the medical conditions of your family members, as these may affect your treatment. Your therapist may also want to know about recent stressful events or any changes in your home and work environments.
Bring Your Medical Reports
Your physical therapist may need to look into your doctor’s reports, lab tests, and imaging results. These medical reports will help your therapist fully understand your case. They may also need to get in touch with your doctors and other healthcare providers, so have their contact details ready.
Bring Any Assistive Devices You Use
Assistive devices can be any tool you use, such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, or canes. It is best if you can see and hear well, so your therapist can easily communicate with you. Your assistive devices will also help you understand instructions better, especially during standardized tests.
If you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair, bring them with you during your appointment. It will help your therapist accurately assess your range of movement and physical abilities.
Ask Someone to Accompany You
A family member or loved one can provide emotional support through your therapy. Furthermore, for the first session, someone who knows your medical history may help provide any information you missed. If they are with you in most of your daily activities, they may point out some details you may not have noticed. A companion may also help you take note of your therapist’s instructions.
Review the Medical Center’s Policies
Physical therapy usually lasts for multiple sessions, so be familiar with any policies you need to observe. Review your financial agreement and insurance coverage for the number of therapy sessions you’ll attend each week. Feel free to discuss any financial considerations with your therapist. It will help them create a practical and successful treatment plan for you.
Also, take note of the policies regarding appointment schedules, especially with cancellations. Make sure to arrive a few minutes early to maximize your time with your physical therapist.
Eat Well and Have a Good Night’s Sleep
Make sure you are well rested before your physical therapy appointment, as this may affect your performance. Avoid coming in for your therapy appointment feeling hungry or overfull, as you may have difficulty moving around and keeping up with your planned exercises.
Wear Comfortable Attire
Wear stretchy and comfortable clothing during your visit. Footwear should also be comfortable and fit well. You may need to move around, so your physical therapist can look into your muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance. They may also check your balance, coordination, and vital signs as you simulate the performance of your daily activities.
Expert Physical Therapist in Blue Springs, MO
Visiting a physical therapist can be life-changing. With their help, you can safely return to the activities you love to do. Visit a physical therapist in Blue Springs, MO, and see the difference that expert care can make.
There’s no need to spend countless hours worrying about the pace of your recovery any longer. Here at Core Medical Center, our team of physical therapists will take care of your health, healing, and wellness.
Get in touch with our friendly staff by calling our office at (816) 427-0201 . You can also fill out our online appointment request form to schedule an appointment. Visit our physical therapy clinic today, and kickstart your way to recovery!
