Your First Visit at Atom Physical Therapy
Knowing what to expect can make your first physical therapy visit easier. Here is what to bring, how to prepare and what usually happens during your initial evaluation at Atom.
What to Bring
Please bring the information and items that apply to your visit.
Photo identification
Your current insurance information, if you are using insurance
A prescription or referral, if one was provided to you
Relevant imaging reports or other records you would like the physical therapist to review
Comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being evaluated
Have Your Coverage Information Ready
If you are using insurance, having your current insurance information available helps our staff review the coverage associated with your visit.
If you have more than one insurance plan, please provide information for each plan so it can be reviewed correctly.
Check your insurance →What Happens During Your First Visit?
Your first appointment gives the physical therapist an opportunity to understand what is affecting you, how it is changing your movement or daily activities, and what you want to improve.
Conversation & History
Your physical therapist will ask about your symptoms, how the problem began, what makes it better or worse, previous treatment and the activities that are currently difficult.
Physical Assessment
Depending on your condition, the evaluation may include strength, range of motion, flexibility, posture, balance, walking, mobility or other movement-based testing.
Goals & Findings
The physical therapist will discuss the findings of the evaluation and how they relate to the problems or limitations you are experiencing.
Your Rehabilitation Plan
A treatment plan is developed around your individual needs, limitations and rehabilitation goals.
Treatment May Begin at Your First Visit
When appropriate, treatment may begin during your initial appointment after the evaluation has been completed.
Treatment varies depending on your condition and may include therapeutic exercise, movement training, hands-on treatment, education, activity modification or other rehabilitation techniques selected for your individual needs.
You may also receive instructions or exercises to continue between visits as part of your rehabilitation program.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily and gives the physical therapist access to the area being evaluated.
For example, shorts may be helpful for a knee or lower-extremity evaluation, while a loose-fitting or sleeveless shirt may be useful for a shoulder evaluation.
Allow a Little Extra Time
If this is your first appointment, arriving a few minutes early can give you time to complete any remaining administrative steps before your scheduled visit begins.
If you have questions before your appointment, our Contact page includes office information, directions and ways to reach Atom.
Contact Atom →Schedule Your First Visit
Request an appointment or check your insurance online.