If a physician has referred you for physical therapy, you may be unsure of what to expect. While any unfamiliar experience may seem upsetting at first, the objective of therapy—your recovery from injury or illness—should calm your nerves. Exploring some common beginners’ questions may further put your mind at ease. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Initial Physical Therapy Appointments

What Should You Wear?

There is no standard dress code for therapy, but most clinics recommend comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing. Your sessions may include stretches to enhance strength and mobility, so dress as if you were going to the gym. Wear elastic-waist pants, T-shirts, and a pair of athletic shoes.

What Does the Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists help rehabilitate knees, backs, hips, necks, and areas of the body affected by arthritis, illness, or injury. Their role is to improve movement, mobility, and strength while simultaneously finding effective ways to minimize pain. They oversee patient care during appointments and typically provide a tailored home program to support speedy recovery.

Will the Therapy Be Painful?

Exercises may sometimes cause a little temporary discomfort, especially if you’re bruised from an accident or stiff and weak from inactivity. You may experience muscle soreness or tiredness after an appointment with your therapist, but they’ll always monitor your work and will never exacerbate injuries.

What Will You Do Between Appointments?

Between appointments, you may be asked complete an at-home series of movements that target your problem area. Other treatments that may be recommended include hot and cold compresses, which can be effective in easing joint pain.

How Long Will You Need to Go?

You and your therapist will work together to set goals for your recovery, and therapy usually ends when you’ve reached those goals. The length of any prescribed course of therapy will vary, however, depending on the nature of the injury, your preinjury fitness level, and age.

If you have a chronic condition or are recovering from an injury or surgery, allow the team at Enterprise Therapy Center to oversee your physical therapy regimen. Serving Coffee County, AL, these friendly, compassionate therapists take an individualized approach to patient care and treatment. They offer a range of services, such as dry needling and aquatic therapy, to support healing and recovery for patients of all ages. Go online to view what people have to say about the center, or call (343) 393-7500 to schedule an appointment.