Patient Resources
Getting ready for physiotherapy
A few things patients often want to know before their first visit. This is general guidance only — for anything specific to your condition, ask your therapist directly.
What to expect at your first physiotherapy visit
Your first visit starts with a conversation: your therapist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and goals, then carry out a physical assessment of movement, strength, and function. Together you'll agree on a treatment plan before any hands-on work begins. Plan for this visit to run longer than follow-ups, since it includes the full assessment.
Preparing for your appointment
Wear or bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated. Bring any relevant medical records, scan results, or referral letters, and a list of current medications. If you've had recent X-rays or MRIs, bringing copies (or knowing where they were taken) helps your therapist build an accurate picture quickly.
Home exercise guidance
Most treatment plans include exercises to do between sessions — consistency matters more than intensity. Only perform exercises your therapist has specifically given you, follow the prescribed sets/reps, and stop and inform your therapist if an exercise causes sharp or worsening pain (some mild muscle soreness after starting a new exercise is normal). Your plan will be adjusted as you progress.
Common physiotherapy questions
How many sessions will I need? This varies by condition and is discussed after your assessment. Does treatment hurt? Some techniques can cause temporary discomfort, but your therapist will always work within your comfort level and explain what to expect. Can I still exercise or work? In most cases yes, with guidance on what to modify — your therapist will tell you specifically what to avoid during recovery.