Injuries and illness can dramatically affect your mobility.
Your quality of life is affected and you find it difficult or impossible to complete daily tasks.
Limited mobility can negatively affect your health and well-being, but you have treatment options.
Physio in Perth can help you start moving again, but what should you expect at your first appointment?
Arrive Early
It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early for your first appointment.
Try to arrive five to ten minutes early. It will give you time to fill out the necessary forms.
Even though your referring physician sends over your medical history file, physio West Perth still needs some additional information.
It typically includes some personal information like current address and contact number.
You will also fill out insurance forms or provide information on other types of payment.
Arriving at your appointment early gives you time to fill out the paperwork so you can see the physiotherapist on time.
When your appointment starts on time, it helps ensure later patients aren’t left sitting in the waiting room.
You’ll Undergo an Assessment
Even though your physiotherapist has a copy of your medical files, an assessment is still necessary.
It’s a good idea to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. You will be asked to perform some basic movements so the physiotherapist can evaluate your flexibility and range of movement.
Physio Perth typically involves the therapist moving your limbs. You may feel some discomfort and you want to let your physiotherapist know when movement becomes uncomfortable.
The more information you share will make it easier for the therapist to create an effective treatment plan.
What to Expect During Treatment
Physio West Perth treatments vary by patient.
Remember, even the same injury or illness will affect people differently.
It’s a reason why an assessment is a standard part of any first visit to a physiotherapist.
Depending on your diagnosis, you may undergo soft tissue massages. The massage can help improve blood flow and loosen tight muscles and joints.
Direct pressure may also be applied to the affected muscles. Known as trigger point therapy, over time it can improve muscle function.
Arthritis sufferers may also be prescribed joint mobilization therapy. It involves applying pressure to the joints to help reduce pain and swelling.
Your physiotherapist may also use dry needling.
The procedure is similar to acupuncture. Fine needles are inserted into the affected tissue to help relieve pain, tightness, and improve mobility.
You may feel some temporary discomfort but the procedure is rarely painful.
Continuing Therapy
Your physiotherapist will most likely create a treatment plan you can perform at home.
It may include exercises designed to strengthen and loosen muscles. Some of the exercises may include stretching and light strength training.
You may also be given educational pamphlets and other literature to help you educate yourself about your condition. It typically includes information on additional exercises, along with what you should avoid.
