Whether you’re recovering from surgery or an injury, physical therapy is a critical part of helping to experience pain relief, streamlined healing, and prevent future injury. While starting treatment may seem intimidating, the professionals at Family Physical Therapy & Sports Center in Kearney, NE, say knowing what to expect can help make the process go smoothly. To ensure you’re prepared, these physical therapists highlight five common steps that happen during initial appointments below.

5 Steps That Take Place During Physical Therapy

1. Get Ready

Getting set up with a physical therapist is an easy process. Start by either calling a clinic directly or using a referral from a physician. Once you have an appointment, pick out comfortable clothes and fitness shoes to wear—these will allow for easier movement.

2. Perform Baseline Tests

After reviewing your health profile, the physical therapist will start with a few baseline tests. These tests will vary, depending on the nature of the injury, but they are fairly simple activities. For example, you may be guided to safely measure your strength, resistance, and range of motion capabilities.

3. Review Treatment Plan

After measuring your abilities, the specialist will devise a custom treatment plan to address the specific nature of the injury. The plan should offer a clear picture of the anticipated treatment benefits, the activities you’ll start with, and how the progress will be measured.

4. Ask Questions

During the initial appointment, you’ll likely have many questions about how therapy will work. As a health care professional that is dedicated to helping patients heal, the therapist should be able to address any questions or concerns about care. For example, they’ll explain how certain goals will be met and offer tips to mitigate specific challenges the injury presents in daily life.

5. Discuss At-Home Care

While physical therapy sessions are a pivotal part of thorough rehabilitation, the care you practice at home will also have a big impact on the overall recovery process. At the end of the appointment, ask about activities or tasks you should avoid to reduce stress on the injury. The physical therapist might also teach you a few at-home exercises that can help to gradually build strength and mobility.  

Choosing a high-quality clinic will ensure every appointment you have will provide a productive experience. Caring for everything from sports injuries to stroke rehabilitation, the professionals at Family Physical Therapy & Sports Center in Kearney, NE, will expertly guide you through every stage of recovery, starting with a friendly and informative initial visit. Visit this physical therapy clinic online to learn more about their state-of-the-art resources and specialized rehabilitation services, including speech pathology and occupational therapy. For questions, or to schedule an appointment, give them a call at (308) 236-5884 today.