Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with persistent discomfort, or just looking to improve how your body moves, starting physiotherapy is a great step in the right direction.

If you haven’t been before, it’s totally normal to feel unsure about what to expect. So, here’s a breakdown of what your first physiotherapy session typically looks like, and how you can prepare to make the most of it.

Step 1: Intake and Getting to Know You

Once you arrive, your physiotherapist will welcome you in and go through a short intake process. This includes reviewing your health history, your current concerns, and any goals you may have. If you haven’t filled out forms online ahead of time, you might be asked to complete them in the clinic.

We always recommend coming a few minutes early so you can settle in without feeling rushed.

Step 2: Let’s Talk – History and Goals

The first part of your session is all about you sharing your story. Your physio will ask about:

  • Where you’re feeling pain or discomfort
  • How long it’s been going on and if anything makes it better or worse
  • What your day-to-day activity looks like (desk job, gym, sports, etc.)
  • What your goals are, whether it’s getting back to a sport, being able to sit comfortably at work, or just walking without pain

This helps us understand the bigger picture and tailor everything to what’s most important to you.

Step 3: Physical Assessment

Next, we’ll take you through a physical assessment. This might include:

  • Observing your posture and how you move
  • Checking your joint mobility and range of motion
  • Assessing strength and any muscle imbalances
  • Functional movement testing like squatting, walking, or lifting
  • Special tests depending on the area of concern (e.g. knee, shoulder, back)

We’ll talk you through each step so you know what we’re looking for and why. The goal here is to identify what’s contributing to your symptoms – not just where it hurts, but why.

Step 4: Treatment Starts Right Away

In most cases, we’ll get started with treatment during your first session. This may include:

  • Hands-on techniques like soft tissue work or joint mobilizations
  • Guided movement or exercises to begin addressing mobility and stability
  • Taping or acupuncture if appropriate and discussed with you
  • Advice on what to do or avoid in your daily routine (like how you sit, stand, or move)

Everything is individualized based on what we found during your assessment and what you’re comfortable with.

Step 5: Your Plan Moving Forward

Before you leave, we’ll talk about the plan. You’ll get a breakdown of:

  • What we found and what’s contributing to your symptoms
  • How often you should come in for treatment
  • What you can do at home (you’ll likely be given a few starter exercises)
  • What progress will look like and how long it may take

This way, you know exactly what to expect and how we’re going to help you move and feel better.

What to Wear to Your First Session

Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move freely and allows access to the area we’re treating. For example:

  • Shorts or loose pants if we’re looking at the knee or hip
  • A tank top or loose shirt if it’s your shoulder or upper back
  • Supportive footwear if you’re doing any standing or walking assessments

Pro Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Visit

  • Bring any previous imaging reports (X-rays, MRI, etc.) if you have them
  • Be open about what you’re experiencing—it helps us help you
  • Ask questions! Your understanding of what’s going on is part of the recovery process
  • Stay consistent. Home exercises and regular sessions will help speed up your progress

Final Thoughts

Your first physiotherapy session is the beginning of a personalized plan to help you move and feel better. Whether your goal is pain relief, better posture, or getting back to an activity you love, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Physiotherapy is more than just treatment, it’s a partnership. And it all starts with that first session. If you’ve been putting it off, there’s no better time to start than now.

Book a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment & Treatment to get started at one of our three clinic locations!

 

About the Author:

Sameenah Navsa

Operations & Clinic Manager

Bachelor’s of Kinesiology & Physical Education