What to expect from your Physical Therapy Initial Evaluation?
Confidentiality
All interactions between the therapist and client are completely confidential. Informed consent is required prior to initial assessment. Written and verbal consent is also required before the therapist can share any information with your medical doctor, specialist or other health professional.
It is importance to note that we thoroughly believe in the power of a team and strongly suggest collaborating with other providers.
Compassion
Chronic pain is a nuisance and we understand that. Likely, you’ve seen a plethora of providers without relief. We understand that and we empathize with that too. With that in mind, we rely on the biopsychosocial model to understand your condition. We take into consideration all the different facets that may be influencing your experience.
Medical History
A thorough understanding of the current problem and all previous health issues is very important. You will complete our digital intake forms prior to your initial assessment so that your therapist can gain an understanding of all the issues that might be affecting you.
Our initial conversation revolves around your past medical history and previous interventions, aiming to understand what worked and what did not. We also discuss lifestyle, diet, recreational activities, hobbies and work life in order to identify aggravating and/or alleviating factors.
Orthopedic Assessment
Our physical therapist have orthopedic backgrounds with speciality interest in pain science. With that in mind, a postural screen, spinal movement analysis, gait analysis, pelvic girdle and lower extremity motion and strength testing is part of the assessment.
Breath Assessment
The diaphragm serves a very important role in the regulation of our sympathetic nervous system, or your “fight or flight.” When pain is present for extended periods of time we often see increases in the sympathetic tone.
Analyzing your breathing pattern and breath awareness is important because the diaphragm, core and pelvic floor work together. Many people suffer from poor breathing mechanics but more importantly, many people hold their breath. Breath holding profoundly affects the function of the pelvic floor and sympathetic nervous system.
Myofascial Tension
Your therapist will examine your abdominal wall and all the muscles externally for excessive tension.
Strength Testing
Coordination, endurance and fatigue-ability of the muscles will also be tested.
Summary & Explanation
At the end of the assessment the findings, issues and goals are summarized and explained. You will leave the appointment with specific education, exercises and strategies to help you manage your individual problem and issues.