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What will a physio do on the first appointment?

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When you’re dealing with pain, injury, or ongoing stiffness, booking a physiotherapy appointment can feel like a big first step. But once you walk through that door, things usually become clearer. The first session is all about understanding what’s going on with your body and laying out a path forward. It’s not just about treating symptoms but really figuring out the root of the issue. Whether your concern is recent or something that’s been bothering you for years, your physiotherapist’s goal is to get a complete picture and help you move toward recovery.


The first part of your appointment is usually a conversation. Your physiotherapist will want to hear your story. They’ll ask when your issue started, how it has changed, and what tends to make it better or worse. This isn’t just small talk, it helps them piece together patterns and clues that point toward the real source of your pain.


They’ll also ask about your medical background, which includes any past injuries, surgeries, or health conditions. Your daily routine matters too. What kind of work you do, how active you are, what sports or hobbies you enjoy, all these things help paint a full picture of your physical lifestyle. It’s a relaxed chat, but one that gives your physiotherapist valuable context.


The Physical Assessment


After the discussion, it’s time for the physical part of the session. This might involve some movement, some stretching, and a bit of hands-on assessment. The physiotherapist might look at how you stand, walk, bend, or lift. They’ll gently test your range of motion and muscle strength, and may press or palpate certain areas to check for tenderness or restriction.


Some of the movements or tests might reproduce your pain a little. That’s actually helpful, because it shows exactly what’s triggering the problem. This kind of testing is safe and helps the physiotherapist narrow things down. The goal is to understand how your body is moving and why.


Understanding the Plan


Once the physiotherapist has enough information, they’ll talk you through what they’ve found. You’ll hear their thoughts on what’s causing your symptoms and why it might be happening. They’ll explain how certain muscles, joints, or movement patterns could be contributing to the issue.


From there, the two of you will come up with a plan. It might include hands-on treatments like manual therapy to ease pain and improve mobility. Exercise will usually play a big role too. These aren’t just random movements, they’re chosen specifically to target your problem areas and help your body function better. You’ll also likely leave with some advice on how to move, rest, or adjust your routine to support your recovery.


Looking Ahead


Your physiotherapist will give you an idea of how many sessions you might need and what kind of progress you can expect. Some issues clear up quickly, while others take time. The important thing is that you’ll have a plan, and someone to guide you through it. You’re not expected to figure it out alone.


They might also give you a few things to do at home. These home exercises are simple but important. They keep the momentum going between sessions and give your body the consistency it needs to heal and improve.


Your first physiotherapy appointment is a starting point, not a quick fix. It’s a chance to understand what’s going on with your body and what you can do about it. You’ll come away with more clarity, a bit more confidence, and a plan to start feeling better.


It’s a process that’s built on knowledge, movement, and trust, between you and your physiotherapist, and between you and your own body. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic issue, or just trying to move more freely, that first session is the beginning of a healthier, more comfortable you.


"Bonnie is really kind and helped heal my fractured wrist. She also helped me with some lower back issues from doing physical work. Her teas are the best :)"

Angela Zhao

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Tel: 09 414 6689

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