Preparing For Your First Physiotherapy Appointment

Managing excruciating pain with painkillers may seem like a good idea for one’s aches, but that is a short-term solution that can lead to worsening conditions and more muscle or nerve damage. It is always best to seek expert advice from medical professionals early on to increase your quality of life quickly. And if you are at that point of needing pain relief, making an appointment for physiotherapy Auckland is the first step to take. 

Although many perceive a visit to a physio as reserved for sports injuries and rehabilitation exclusively, this is not true as physiotherpists offer pain relief for all types of injuries. Another discouraging assumption is that some may feel that a physio is going to increase their pain level, and this can be off-putting. While any treatment will always seem to feel worse in the beginning, the aim is always to eradicate pain or reduce it significantly if possible. And so, it’s important to remember this before going in for your visit, so that you set realistic expectations for you and your body. 

First-timers may also experience an uncertainty about how to best prepare for their appointment, and this increases stress. Cairnhill Physiotherapy has provided some essential tips to help ensure that you have a positive experience.

1) Make Yourself Clear  

Before booking your appointment, ensure that you specify what treatment you are looking for or be specific about your problem. This allows the practice receptionist to confirm if your request can be treated and can also pass along this information to your physiotherapist. On your initial visit, it is also essential to explain to your physio what triggers your symptoms which will help in developing a successful treatment plan.

2) Consider Your Clothing And Timing  

Patients should wear loose-fitting clothing during their sessions. If need be, carry an extra set specifically for the appointment as garments need to be comfortable to move in during therapy. Depending on targeted pain, a physio may ask you to remove your shirt for upper body movement to evaluate your neck, shoulder or back. Another consideration is to arrive slightly early for your first appointment. This allows you to fill in any forms required for the therapy and gives you time to assess the pain points you want to prioritise.

3) Your First Appointment 

A first appointment can sometimes be longer than usual, as the physio needs time to explain how the therapy will work. They can start evaluating your pain level and ask you to demonstrate movement to see how to assist you best. They will also determine how long you need treatment, which is helpful for scheduling and budgeting if you do not have insurance. 

Using physiotherapy in Auckland to help your body recover can be the best decision you can make for your health. Physiotherapists will help support you while treating the pain effectively and in a non-invasive manner. And though a first visit could leave you feeling nervous or a little anxious, expressing your concerns with a professional can help ease the process. If you’re thinking of scheduling your first physiotherapy session in Auckland, contact Cairnhill Physiotherapy today!