If you’ve been injured or are recovering from surgery, you may be required to attend physical therapy. Over time, your physical therapist can help you restore mobility, strength, and range of motion in the affected area to facilitate a full recovery. If you’ve never had physical therapy before, you may be wondering what to expect. Learn more about some of the experiences you’ll encounter below.

What to Expect When Starting Physical Therapy

1. Assessment of Your Injury

You may have already received a diagnosis from your healthcare provider, but your physical therapist will also perform their own examination. Although they may know the issue you’re facing, they’ll still need to determine your range of motion, strength levels, balance, or other factors that will be addressed during treatment. Your therapist may physically palpate the affected area or ask you to attempt specific movements in this assessment, so be sure to wear clothes that allow you to move freely.

2. Individualized Treatment Plan

Based on your diagnosis and the findings from their evaluation, your physical therapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. The objectives of your plan may encompass pain management, improved strength and mobility, and restored functionality of the injured area. Your therapist will discuss the length of treatment, when and how long sessions will be, and what you can do at home to promote optimal results.

3. Exercises & Therapies

Once they’ve discussed your treatment plan, your physical therapist may walk you through your first session of therapy. During this time, be prepared to learn the exercises you’ll complete in-office, at home, or both. You may also receive equipment, such as exercise bands, for home use. Sessions could encompass multiple forms of therapy, including heat or cold therapy, targeted exercises, and technology-enabled treatments, such as ultrasound therapy.

If you’re seeking a physical therapy team to help you make a successful recovery, turn to Bayside Community Hospital in Chambers County, TX. Offering a broad range of healthcare services to residents in the Gulf Coast area, this trusted medical group features The Wellness Center at Bayside, where patients can enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch physical therapy. Discover more about the center and its services online, or call (409) 267-3143 to speak with an associate.