What Your Physiotherapist Wishes You Knew Before Your First Appointment

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You have finally decided to see a physiotherapist. Maybe you've had that pain for weeks. Maybe you've tried resting, massaging it, using that balm your aunty recommended, or simply hoping it would disappear on its own. But now, you've finally booked an appointment. Suddenly, you're wondering: What exactly is going to happen when I get there? Here are a few things your physiotherapist probably wishes you knew before your first appointment:

  • Your first appointment may involve a lot of questions

You might have probably gone for a physiotherapy session because your knee hurts, but your physiotherapist is asking about your work, your activities, when the pain started, what makes it worse, and whether you have had an injury before. 

No, they are not trying to write your autography, but trying to understand the problem. Sometimes, the painful area is just a referred pain, not the actual painful area. The physiotherapist just needs to understand how the problem started, how it affects you, and what you are currently able to do.

  • Don't be surprised if you are assessed before you are treated

If you are visiting a physiotherapy clinic for the first time, you would first be assessed for your movement, strength in muscles, and even perform some specific tests. This is because physiotherapy is not supposed to be random, but the physiotherapist needs to have an idea of what he is dealing with.

So, before the massage you might be expecting, or other treatment, there may be some assessment.

  • Tell the truth

Tell your physiotherapist the truth. In Nigeria, simple questions such as if they take herbal concoctions, or if they are consistent with their drugs. Information like this should not be withheld from the physiotherapist; because no physiotherapist is looking for a perfect patient. Instead, they need your truth to make the appropriate decisions about your care. 

  • Ask questions

As a patient, if you need clarity about the condition or prescribed exercises, ask your physiotherapist to avoid getting wrong information from unreliable sources. 

  • Your treatment does not end when you leave the clinic

Physiotherapy treatment never ends in the clinic. It is an everyday activity, and since you cannot be scheduled to visit the clinic everyday, it is expected that you follow up with the prescribed exercises given you at home. Physiotherapy is a partnership and prescribed exercises should continue in your homes. 


Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What should I wear to my first physiotherapy appointment?

A comfortable wear (short or baggy trousers) that allows you to easily assess the area of pain. Preferably, you can come along with the wear and change in the clinic. 

  1. Do I need a doctor's referral before seeing a Physiotherapist?

No. However pain in your body, or difficulty in moving is a sign that you need physiotherapy. 

  1. Will physiotherapy hurt?

It should not be unnecessarily painful. Depending on your condition and the type of treatment or assessment, you may experience some discomfort, especially when moving a stiff or painful body part. Your physiotherapist should explain what to expect and adjust the treatment when necessary. 

  1. How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?

There is no definite number of sessions for individuals. It depends on the presenting complaint, the level of pain, and your consistency in attending the sessions. However, your physiotherapist should review your progress and determine what is appropriate for you.


Need a Physiotherapist for consultation or assessment, send a message to The Everyday Physiotherapist on Instagram. 

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