Your First Appointment

For Patients

What to Expect:

Thank you for choosing True North Physical Therapy! I look forward to hearing your story and joining you on your journey to greater health.

How early should I arrive?

To save time, complete the patient intake form prior to your appointment. If you are unable to complete the form, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. If I am working with another patient when you arrive, please relax in the chairs at the opposite end of the hallway, and I will meet you there. Your time is valuable- I make every effort to start your appointment on time.

How long is the appointment?

Your first physical therapy visit will last about an hour. Any follow up visits will be a minimum of 30 minutes and can last up to 60 minutes if needed. Follow up visits are customized to meet your individual needs.

What should I bring?

Bring or wear comfortable clothes- be ready to move. Bring any reports or imaging related to your concerns, as well as a list of your current medications.

What should I expect?

Your first appointment consists of a physical therapy evaluation. First, we will talk through what brings you into the clinic. Then, I will ask you to move to evaluate your strength, endurance, balance, flexibility and nervous system. Based on all of our findings and your personal story, we determine a physical therapy diagnosis- the cause of your pain or limitations. At the end of the evaluation, you can expect to have a better understanding of:

  1. what causes your pain and/or limitations
  2. what good things you are already doing to help yourself get better
  3. what else you can do to make it better
  4. how skilled physical therapy treatments can help
  5. about how long it will take to reach your goals

Together, we determine the best treatment plan to meet your goals. A simple home exercise program will supplement your visits.

Do I need an order/referral for physical therapy?

In Wisconsin, you can make an appointment with a physical therapist without a physician order or referral.

Have more questions?

Check out this article to prepare for your first physical therapy appointment.