What to Expect at your Initial Evaluation

When you arrive at our outpatient physical therapy clinic, you will be greeted by a receptionist or a staff member who will ask you to fill out or sign some paperwork. This paperwork typically includes a health history questionnaire, functional outcome measures, a consent form, and a privacy policy. You may also be asked to provide information about your insurance and provide copies of your photo identification and insurance card, as well as prescription from your referring doctor. 

Once the paperwork is complete, you will be taken to the location your evaluation will take place. The physical therapist will ask you questions about your medical history, current symptoms, and any activities that may have contributed to your condition. They will also perform a physical examination to assess your strength, range of motion, flexibility, and other factors that may be relevant to your treatment. During the examination it will be important to have access to the affected area, so that the therapist can complete a thorough assessment of your condition.

Based on the information gathered during the evaluation, the physical therapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include exercises, stretches, manual therapy techniques, and other modalities that can help improve your condition and alleviate your symptoms.

At the end of the evaluation, the physical therapist will discuss their findings with you and answer any questions you may have. They may also provide you with exercises or other instructions to follow at home before your next appointment. Overall, the first visit to an outpatient physical therapy evaluation is focused on gathering information, developing a treatment plan, and educating you on how to manage your condition.