When Should I Arrive?

We recommend that you arrive 5–10 minutes before your scheduled physical therapy appointment. This extra time allows you to check in, complete any necessary paperwork, and prepare for your session without feeling rushed.

To make your first visit even smoother, you can download and complete new patient forms ahead of time from our website. Bringing these forms with you will help save time at check-in and allow your physical therapist to focus more on your evaluation and treatment.

What Should I Bring?

Being prepared for your physical therapy appointment helps your therapist provide the best possible care. For your first visit, we recommend bringing:

• Photo ID and insurance card – so we can verify your coverage.

• Referral or prescription – if your doctor has provided one.

• Comfortable clothing and supportive shoes – wear athletic clothes that allow free movement and access to the area being treated.

• A list of current medications and medical history – this helps your physical therapist design a safe, effective treatment plan.

• Accident or injury details – if your therapy is related to a car accident, workplace injury, or personal injury case, bring any documentation related to your accident and attorney information. This allows us to coordinate care, assist with proper billing, and ensure records are available if your case requires them.

What Should I Wear?

When preparing for your physical therapy appointment, the right clothing can make a big difference in your comfort and treatment results. It’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows your physical therapist to easily assess movement and access the area of your body being treated.

• For lower body treatments (hips, knees, or ankles): Wear athletic shorts, yoga pants, or loose sweatpants so your therapist can evaluate your movement and apply manual therapy techniques as needed.

• For upper body treatments (shoulders, neck, or back): Choose a t-shirt or tank top that allows easy access to the affected area without restriction.

• For women’s health physical therapy: Comfortable workout clothes such as leggings, joggers, and a breathable top are recommended for both privacy and mobility.

Always pair your outfit with supportive athletic shoes to ensure stability during exercises. Avoid jeans, skirts, or restrictive clothing, as they can limit movement and make certain therapies less effective. By wearing the right clothing to physical therapy, you’ll maximize your comfort, allow your therapist to provide the most effective care, and get the most out of each session.

What Can I Expect For My First Appointment?

Your first physical therapy appointment is designed to give you a clear path toward recovery while helping you feel comfortable and informed. At Advanced Physical Therapy, we begin with a comprehensive evaluation where your licensed physical therapist reviews your medical history, discusses your symptoms, and listens to your treatment goals.

During this visit, your therapist will:

• Perform a physical assessment to check strength, mobility, posture, and movement patterns.

• Identify the underlying causes of pain or limitations.

• Create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition and lifestyle.

• Answer questions about your diagnosis, recovery timeline, and at-home exercises.

You may also receive your first round of hands-on treatment or guided exercises during this appointment. Be sure to wear comfortable, flexible clothing so your therapist can fully evaluate the area of concern.

By the end of your initial visit, you’ll know exactly what to expect for future sessions and how your physical therapy program will support long-term healing and improved function.