The first time you go anywhere new, it can be intimidating and sometimes overwhelming. Couple that with an injury and there will be a lot of questions that you will need answered. If you’ve had surgery or are experiencing back pain, a sprained ankle, or maybe a strained thigh muscle, you’ll want to visit a physical therapist. If this is your first visit, the unknown can be scary, but rest assured–physical therapy can reduce pain, help you heal, and get you up and active again.
During your first visit to ACE Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Institute, we will go over your medical history, discuss your doctor’s diagnosis, review any scans you may have of the injured area, and develop a therapy plan that is geared to achieving your personal needs and goals.
There are some general questions you might be asked during your first visit. You can prepare your answers to these ahead of time.1
When did your problem begin?
What caused this problem?
What did mobility look like for you before this injury?
What symptoms are you experiencing and how often?
Has anything made this problem better or worse?
What level of activity would you like to achieve?
Answers to these questions will help your therapist determine the best recovery plan for you. They will also need to know what medications you are taking and if you have any other significant health conditions.
For your first appointment and all physical therapy sessions to follow, come dressed to move. Wear clothes that allow access to your injured joint. If your hip is being treated, wear shorts. If you have a shoulder injury, wear a shirt that allows easy access to your arm. Part of your first appointment will be an examination, and your physical therapist will need to assess the area they will be treating, test the joint or muscles strength and range of motion, and measure balance. Loose clothing makes this process easier for you and your physical therapist.
ACE physical therapists are committed to seeing patients up and active again. We want your first visit to be an encouraging one, as you will meet the therapist, and together, you will develop the best therapy plan for you.
ACE Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Institute was founded on the principles of high ethical standards, integrity, honesty, and professionalism. When you step inside one of their eight convenient locations in the Washington Metro area, your goal becomes theirs: returning you to your normal lifestyle as quickly and safely as possible.
1https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-expect-from-pt-during-the-first-appointment-2696665
