Appointment with the Physical Therapist? Ask Yourself the Following Questions

At a first visit to the physical therapist, there is a lot to discuss. To make the best use of the available time, it is wise to think about a number of things at home in advance.

The following questions can help.

• Am I insured for physical therapy?
  Check whether your health insurance covers physical therapy treatments and whether the physical therapist is in network with your insurer.

• What is my goal?
  For example: get advice or exercises, be able to play sports again, reduce pain, maintain independence, etc.

• What do I expect from the physical therapist?
  Consider what you want to achieve with the visit to the physical therapist. Do you want to know where your symptoms come from? Do you expect to get rid of the symptoms completely? On what timeline?

• What are my symptoms?
  Pain, stiffness, tingling, loss of strength, swelling, instability, etc.

• How did my symptoms start?
  Due to a wrong movement, poor posture, accident, overuse, etc.

• Have I had these symptoms before?
  Were the symptoms the same then? How were they resolved back then?

• How long have I had symptoms?
  A few days, weeks, or longer?

• Have the symptoms increased, decreased, or remained the same?
  Think back to what you felt when the symptoms first occurred and how the symptoms are at the moment.

• What worsens or reduces the symptoms?
  Rest, movement, medication, a certain posture, etc.

• Have I already done something myself to reduce the symptoms?
  Rest, cooling, exercises, pain relief, etc.

• What are my limitations?
  Difficulty with dressing or undressing, climbing stairs, sports, household tasks, work, overhead activities, etc.

• Have any investigations or treatments already been done for these symptoms?
  X-rays (Röntgenfoto's), scans, medication, previous treatments with a physical therapist or other healthcare provider?

• Have I ever had surgery?
  If you have ever had surgery in the area of the symptoms, it is good to discuss this with the physical therapist. Even if you have had procedures on the heart, lungs, or blood vessels, the physical therapist would like to know this.

• Are there factors that influence my recovery?
  This can be both positive and negative (beïnvloeden).

• How is my general health?
  Fitness, heart or vascular diseases, high blood pressure, lung problems, rheumatic disease, diabetes, mental health issues, a history of cancer, other diseases or conditions, etc.

• Do I take any medications?
  Even if you use (or have used) medications, it can be important for the physical therapist to know this.