So, you’ve made the decision to come to physical therapy and have scheduled your first physical therapy appointment. Our licensed therapists are ready and excited to help you get back to health! In order for you to have the smoothest experience during your visit, we have some tips on how you can prepare and what to expect at your first physical therapy appointment
Haven't scheduled your first appointment yet?
If you're tired of dealing with pain, licensed ATI physical therapists are here to help you on your journey back to good health. Start today by scheduling a complimentary screening at any ATI location. We'll book your appointment within 24-48 hours, so you can start feeling like your old self again fast.
Yes! I want to book my complimentary screening now.
We Give You a Reminder Call Before Your PT Appointment
You can expect to receive a courtesy reminder call one to two days in advance of your PT appointment. You will also receive a text reminder. If you need to reschedule, please let us know at least 24 hours in advance.
Do I Need to Fill Out Any Forms?
If you haven’t already filled out your new patient forms digitally, please download and complete your new patient forms (linked below) ahead of your appointment to save time. This will allow you to begin your therapy session even faster!
If you choose to fill out the forms at your clinic, please allot 15 minutes to complete before your scheduled appointment time.
What Should I Bring to My Appointment?
- Photo identification* (Valid Driver's License, Valid State ID, School ID Card, or Valid Passport)
- Form of payment due at the time of service
- Prescription/doctor referral (if applicable)
- Insurance card (if applicable)
- Current medication list (if not yet provided)
*As a creditor under the Federal Trade Commission's ""Red Flags Rule,"" we adhere to an Identity Theft Prevention Program. For this reason, we ask that you present photo identification at the time of registration. We appreciate your cooperation in assisting us with protecting your identity and preventing identity theft."
What Should I Wear To My Appointments
Your therapy session will involve varied physical movements and we want you to feel comfortable throughout your visit. We recommend wearing clothing that is comfortable enough for you to move around in, whether that is workout gear or, for example, lounge-type wear. The clothing you wear should also allow for easy exposure of the areas where pain is present.
How Long is a Physical Therapy Session?
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to your scheduled appointment time if you haven’t already completed your new patient forms. Your first visit will last from 60 to 90 minutes and you can expect to start treatment on day one.
What Will Treatment with My Physical Therapist Look Like?
Your first visit will last approximately one hour and include a comprehensive evaluation and applicable treatment administered by a licensed physical therapist. Your physical therapist will review your medical history, diagnostic tests and any recent events that may have contributed to your condition. Your evaluation will include an assessment of your current functional deficits, pain level, and posture and a thorough evaluation of your flexibility, strength, balance, and endurance.
Following your evaluation, your physical therapist will thoroughly explain your personalized treatment plan and expectations for recovery and give you a commitment letter. Communication between the patient and physical therapist is of utmost importance at ATI as you are an active participant in your recovery.
Is a Physical Therapist a Doctor?
Physical therapists are not physicians, but many have earned a doctorate degree, having completed a 3-year Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Others may have earned a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s of Science in Physical Therapy (MSPT). No matter what their level of training, every professional on your ATI Care Team is committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for everyone in their care.
Next Steps
In many ways, your first appointment is your most important. It is where you commit to your journey of returning to health. Joining you on this journey is your ATI Care Team. They will be there as you work toward your goals and they will cheer you on with each success!
The more you are actively involved and invested in your therapy sessions, the sooner you will get back to health and get back to your life. We work hard to efficiently and effectively deliver treatment. We can’t wait to see you for your first physical therapy appointment!