What Does a Physiotherapist Actually Do? A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Your First Appointment

It's likely that someone recommended seeing a physiotherapist if you've ever been injured, had chronic pains, or simply wanted to get healthier. However, what are the real responsibilities of a physiotherapist, and what can you anticipate from that initial assessment?

We are here to give you an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what physiotherapy entails and how that first session can go, whether you are anxious or simply inquisitive.

What is Physiotherapy?

“Physical therapy is services provided by physical therapists to individuals and populations to develop, maintain and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout the lifespan. The service is provided in circumstances where movement and function are threatened by ageing, injury, pain, diseases, disorders, conditions and/or environmental factors and with the understanding that functional movement is central to what it means to be healthy.”

So, what happens in the first physiotherapy session?

Intake forms and Informed consent:

After booking the appointment, you will receive Intake forms on your email to fill out, which will ask you about your basic complaints and medical history. It's recommended to fill out before appearing for your appointment as it’ll help your physiotherapist to get some idea about your condition. 

After entering your Physiotherapy session, the first thing will be taken is your consent to get assessed and treated by your physiotherapist. Physiotherapists will provide all the information you need regarding the session while taking your consent.

Subjective assessment: WE LISTEN TO YOU:

Following the consent, your physiotherapist will take a thorough medical history. This comprises:

• The major issue you're facing

• When it began

• Pain level

• Red flags

• Any prior illnesses or injuries

Your lifestyle, occupation, interests, and level of functional activity

It's important to understand not only your symptoms but also the origin of them, so be prepared to talk a lot.

Objective assessment:

Next step is assessing your body, this will include:

• Posture, Gait assessment

• Mobility, flexibility and strength

• Palpation of painful area

• Special tests – lead us to diagnosis

This is more about observation and testing to determine what's happening underneath the surface than it is about working out.

Diagnosis and explanation:

Once all of this data has been gathered, your physiotherapist will explain:
- What they think is the source of your symptoms
- How the problem most likely originated
- How can it be managed or treated?

Many people have their "aha" moment at this point, realizing how routine behaviors (such as repetitive motions or sitting posture) can be causing their discomfort.

GOALS and Treatment plan:

Physiotherapy is not a panacea. It frequently involves:
- Sessions that continue for a few weeks or months
- Dedication to at-home workouts
- Slow development rather than quick fixes

The good news? You're not alone in this. Your physiotherapist becomes your healing partner, modifying the strategy as you get better. And that’s why setting up GOALS are indeed. You tell your GOAL to your physiotherapist and they will help and educate you to achieve it.

Your Physiotherapist will customize treatment plan based on your diagnosis and goals. Though common treatments are:

• Manual hands-on therapy: Mobilization, Soft tissue release

• Exercise therapy: Mobility, strength and flexibility training, Pilates, Postural correction

• Dry needling and acupuncture

• Electrotherapy: Like, Ultrasound

• Education: DO’S and DONTS’ for your everyday life to avoid triggering symptoms

Treatment:

After the thorough assessment, your physiotherapist will provide the treatment suitable to you along with some Homework to re-enforce the progression. 

You are entitled to take back your consent for any kind of treatment you’re not comfortable with.

What Do You Need to Pack or Wear?

- Movement-friendly, comfortable apparel (such as gym attire)
- Any pertinent medical reports or scans
- A list of queries or symptoms you might like to talk about

You won't be required to perform like an athlete, so don't worry. Understanding your starting point and working your way up from there is the aim.

Physiotherapists are movement specialists who help individuals feel stronger, move better, and live more easily. They are not simply for injuries. Whether you're recovering from a sprain or just want to straighten your posture, that initial assessment is the first step toward improved physical health.
You'll understand exactly what it implies and why it's probably a good idea the next time someone suggests that you consult a physiotherapist.

If you feel like you are suffering from any injuries, chronic pain or post-surgical issues, book a free phone consultation with one of our physiotherapists to get help.

Written By: Anjali Patel

REFERENCES:

World Physiotherapy. (2019). Description of physiotherapy: Policy statement [PDF]. World Physiotherapy. https://world.physio/sites/default/files/2020-07/PS-2019-Description-of-physical-therapy.pdf