Before your first Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy) appointment, you may be wondering what to wear. Choosing the right clothing can help ensure that your therapist can properly evaluate your range of motion, identify any physical limitations, and develop an effective treatment plan. Here are a few pointers on what to wear to help you feel comfortable and prepared.
Comfortable Clothing
Comfort is key when it comes to choosing what to wear to your first physical therapy appointment. You’ll likely be performing exercises and stretches, so you’ll want to wear clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably. Loose-fitting clothing, such as gym shorts, yoga pants, or sweatpants, are good choices. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may restrict movement or make it difficult for your therapist to evaluate your range of motion.
Athletic Shoes
Wearing active footwear is best. Athletic shoes, such as running shoes or cross-training shoes, are a good choice for physical therapy appointments. Avoid sandals or flip-flops, as they don’t provide proper support or stability. Especially for running-related injuries, we encourage you to bring all pairs of shoes that you run in. It allows us to examine the shoes for wear patterns; we may also ask you to run on the treadmill so having shoes allows to you do this.
Avoid Jewelry and Accessories
It’s best to avoid wearing jewelry and accessories to your physical therapy appointment. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can get in the way during exercises and stretches, or during manual therapy.
What to Bring
In addition to wearing comfortable clothing and athletic shoes, there are a few items you should bring to your first physical therapy appointment. These include:
- Medical History: Bring any medical history or documentation related to your condition or injury, such as a prescription, surgical report, or imaging.
- Insurance Information: Bring your insurance information, including your insurance card and any necessary paperwork.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important during physical therapy, so bring a water bottle to ensure you can easily access water throughout your session. We have a water cooler where you can refill your bottle.
Questions about what to wear to your first physical therapy appointment? Please give our friendly Client Experience Team a call at 226-780-2529 and they can advise you based on your unique case.
