What to expect your first therapy visit

Tips to start your recovery on the right foot

Ready, set, go!

Your first physical therapy appointment can feel a little nerve-wracking — especially if you’ve never been to PT before. Here’s exactly what to expect so you can walk in feeling prepared.

What do I bring? What do I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes you can move in easily. Bring any paperwork related to your injury or workers’ comp claim. If you have a prescription or referral for PT, bring that too.

What will happen when I get there?

Your therapist will ask you questions — about your injury, pain, job, and daily life. This is called an evaluation. Be honest and specific, especially about your job demands. The more they know, the better your treatment plan will be.
They’ll also do a physical assessment — watching how you move, testing your strength and range of motion, and identifying exactly what’s affected.
At the end of the visit, they’ll explain their findings and outline a treatment plan. This is a good time to ask questions.

Will it hurt?

Physical therapy can be uncomfortable, especially early on. That’s normal. But sharp or severe pain is not something to push through — always tell your therapist if something doesn’t feel right.

What about exercises?

Your therapist will probably give you exercises to do at home between visits. These may seem simple — small movements, stretches, posture adjustments. Don’t underestimate them. These home exercises are a critical part of your recovery. Patients who do them consistently recover faster.

How many visits will I need?

This depends on your injury and how you progress. Your therapist will evaluate you regularly and update your plan. Your doctor and adjuster ultimately decide how many visits are approved — but your therapist’s reports on your progress are a key input to that decision.

THE BOTTOM LINE:

Your first visit sets the foundation for everything that follows.

Be honest, ask questions, and take your home exercises seriously from day one.