What to expect at your first physiotherapy appointment

Booking your first physiotherapy appointment can feel a little unknown — especially if you're in pain and not sure what to expect. Here's a step-by-step look at how your initial visit works, so there are no surprises.

Before you arrive

A few simple things make your first session more productive:

• Wear comfortable clothing you can move in (and that lets us access the area we're treating).
• Bring any scans or reports (X-rays, MRIs, referrals) if you have them — but you don't need them to start.
• Jot down your history — when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and what you're hoping to get back to doing.

Step 1 — Your story

We start by listening. Your physio will ask about your symptoms, how the injury happened, your daily activities, work, and your goals. This conversation is just as important as the physical exam — it tells us what "recovered" actually looks like for you.

Step 2 — The assessment

Next comes a hands-on physical examination. We'll look at how you move, test strength and flexibility, and assess the affected area to pinpoint the root cause — not just the symptom.

Step 3 — Diagnosis and plan

We'll explain what we've found in plain language, what's driving your pain, and how long recovery is likely to take. You'll leave understanding your body better than when you walked in.

Step 4 — Treatment starts today

Your first appointment isn't just talking — we begin treatment straight away. Depending on your needs that might include manual therapy, dry needling, taping, or specific exercises to start at home.

Step 5 — Your home plan

Recovery happens between sessions too. We'll give you a clear, realistic set of exercises and advice so you can keep progressing on your own.

How long does it take?

Initial physiotherapy consultations run for around 45 minutes, giving us plenty of time to assess thoroughly and start treatment. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes.

Ready when you are

No referral is needed and most health funds offer a rebate. Book your first appointment at our Prestons clinic — we're open 7 days a week.