• Home
  • Answers
  • What happens at your first physiotherapy appointment?

What happens at your first physiotherapy visit

Your first physiotherapy visit at our Edmonton clinic runs 45 minutes: roughly fifteen on history, then movement and strength testing, a plain explanation of what was found, and a plan with something to start that day.

Book an appointment

What Happens at Your First Physiotherapy Visit? What to Expect

The first appointment runs 45 minutes. It covers your history, screening questions, movement and strength testing, and hands-on assessment. You should leave with an explanation of what was found, a plan, and something to start straight away.

What Happens At Your First Physiotherapy Appointment? Assessment And Treatment At Vertex Physiotherapy

What to Expect During the First 45 Minutes of Your First Physiotherapy Visit

  • History — roughly fifteen minutes on what happened, what aggravates and eases it, your health background, and what you want to get back to
  • Testing — movement, strength, and where relevant neurological and special tests for the area involved
  • Explanation — what was found, what it means, and what it does not mean
  • Plan — the likely timeframe, what treatment will involve, and what you are doing before the next visit

What Should You Bring and Wear to Your First Physiotherapy Visit?

Photo identification, your insurance or claim details, and any relevant imaging reports or surgical notes. Wear or bring clothing you can move in, and that gives access to the area being assessed — shorts are genuinely useful for knee, hip and ankle problems.

Arrive five minutes early for intake forms, or complete them online beforehand if that option is offered.

What Should You Leave With After Your Physiotherapy Visit?

An explanation of what is going on that you could repeat to a family member. An estimated range of sessions. One to three exercises with a clear reason for each. And a plan for what to do if it flares.

You should not leave confused about what is wrong or what happens next. If you do, ask before you go — that is a fair question and a reasonable clinician will welcome it.

Related Questions About Your Physiotherapy Visit

The visit runs 45 minutes and covers history, movement and strength testing, hands-on assessment, an explanation of the findings, and a plan. You should leave with something to start straight away.

Clothing you can move in that allows access to the area being assessed. Shorts are useful for knee, hip and ankle problems; a loose top or vest for shoulder and neck assessments.

Usually yes. Assessment takes priority, but most first appointments include some treatment and always include something to do before the next visit.

Yes. You are welcome to bring a family member, friend or support person to any appointment.

Both. Assessment takes most of the time, but treatment usually starts the same day, and you will leave with something to do at home.

Call (825) 525-2852 as early as you can so the slot can go to someone else. Twenty-four hours’ notice is appreciated.

Talk to a physiotherapist in Edmonton

Vertex Physiotherapy is at 6958 76 Ave NW #205, Edmonton, AB T6B 2R2. Call (825) 525-2852 or book online, and we will match you with a physiotherapist who works with this regularly.