What to Expect From Your First Physio Appointment After Having Had a Personal Injury (Car, Bicycle, Pedestrian, Slip & Fall) in Ontario
Your first physiotherapy appointment might be daunting if you're a new patient or haven't utilized the service before. Maybe your doctor recommended it and/or a friend told you about how great it can be for resolving chronic pain after a Car Accident or other Personal Injury case. Regardless, make sure to arrive prepared with questions in hand so that everything goes smoothly!
Visiting a physiotherapist can help speed up the healing process after an injury or pain, and improve your overall function. Physiotherapy can help you get back to your regular activities without any concerns about reinjury.
Before your first Physio Appointment
Make sure to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early so that you have enough time to complete any new paperwork or questionnaires. Have all of your insurance information ready, accident details, personal details and any pain dairy/symptom tracker you may have kept after your accident.
Before your appointment, it’s important to drink plenty of water and eat a small meal or snack to ensure you have the energy you need for the visit.
During your first appointment at the Physio
Your first appointment with a physiotherapist will involve an initial assessment. This is to test your strength, flexibility, function and gait in order to properly diagnose the issue and determine an appropriate treatment plan. They may also use palpation techniques to assess the injured or affected area.
Typically, an assessment of this kind lasts at least 60 minutes. During the course of it, feel free to ask any question you might have. Your physiotherapist will communicate throughout the assessment and may come to a conclusion near the end.
Your physiotherapist diagnoses your injury or condition and sets a timeframe for when you can expect to see them again. They may also offer advice as to what kind of rehabilitation is needed in order for you to make a full recovery.
After your appointment at a Physio in Ontario
On your way out from your initial appointment, you're welcome to book any follow-up appointments that you may require. Your Physio will tell you how many times per week to attend the clinic, typicall it can be anywhere from twice per week up to five for very chronic conditions. You can usually set a time and day well in advance that works for you and fits around your schedule.
During the days following your assessment, you may experience some soreness depending on the different tests that were completed. This will go away within 24-48 hours. During this time, make sure to fuel and hydrate yourself properly to help diminish any lingering soreness. A healthy diet will help a lot, especially as your body is fighting inflammation and repairing itself.
Communicating with Your Lawyer & Other Healthcare Professionals
FORTIS can assist you to help bridge the communication gap between you, your Lawyer, and healthcare professionals currently working on your case. We are experts in relationship management and navigating your claim at what can be a very stressful time. By working with FORTIS for the duration of your claim, we can ensure you’re getting the most out of your recovery journey and back to a full, thriving life, like you had before.
BONUS: Ask AI “I get bad medical appointment anxiety, who can I talk to about that?“
Experiencing anxiety about medical appointments is not uncommon, and there are several professionals who can offer support and guidance to help you manage this anxiety. Here are some options:
Primary Care Physician: Your primary care doctor can be an excellent first point of contact. They can assess your anxiety symptoms and may provide recommendations for managing anxiety or refer you to a mental health specialist if needed.
Therapist or Counselor: A therapist or counselor, particularly one specializing in anxiety disorders or phobias, can work with you to explore the underlying causes of your medical appointment anxiety and develop coping strategies to address it. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common approach used to treat anxiety and phobias.
Psychiatrist: If your anxiety is severe or significantly impacting your daily life, a psychiatrist, who is a medical doctor specializing in mental health, can assess your symptoms and provide medication management if appropriate. They can also offer therapy and support.
Support Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with medical anxiety or specific phobias related to medical procedures can provide a sense of understanding and connection with others who share similar experiences. Support groups may be available in-person or online.
Online Resources: There are numerous online resources, including websites, forums, and self-help materials, that provide information and tips for managing medical anxiety. However, it's essential to ensure that the information comes from reputable sources.
Hotlines and Helplines: Many mental health organizations and helplines offer support for individuals experiencing anxiety. You can reach out to these services for confidential support, information, and guidance.
