What to Bring

  • Physical therapy referral or prescription from doctor
  • Any other physician notes, X-rays, or MRI reports that you would like us to review
  • Insurance card and photo ID
  • Wear or bring comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes.

Arrival

When you arrive at Sports Medicine & Training Center (SMTC) for your first appointment, please check in with a front desk member. You will be asked to fill out intake documents that include demographic information and a summary of financial policies with your insurance plan physical therapy benefit, if applicable. You will also be asked to complete a medical questionnaire, in which you will provide your therapist with information regarding your health history, a description of your injury or condition and previous injuries or surgeries. 

Evaluation

A licensed physical therapist from our staff will complete an evaluation on your first appointment. The therapist will ask you questions about your condition and how it may interfere with your ability to perform normal daily activities or participate in your chosen sport or recreational activity. The therapist will then complete a physical evaluation in which he or she will test your strength, flexibility, swelling, and if appropriate, assess your posture and gait. The therapist will explain the findings from this exam and then outline the treatment process and what outcome you may expect. When the initial evaluation process is completed, you will be instructed in an exercise program by the therapist or one our physical therapist assistants, then conclude with modalities and manual therapy.

At SMTC, a typical appointment will generally last 90 minutes, although some appointments are longer for complex or multiple diagnoses. The staff works in a team atmosphere with your therapist overseeing your program and the PTAs and technicians assisting when needed.

Departure

At the end of your first appointment, please ask any additional questions when speaking with your therapist. The front desk staff will collect any copays and help you schedule future visits.

After

How patients feel during and after treatment varies a lot depending on the individual. Many patients feel better after their first visit due to improvements in flexibility and reduction in pain and swelling. However, it is not uncommon to have some pain or soreness resulting from your exercise routine, because it may be challenging some muscles that haven’t been challenged in a while. This should decrease fairly quickly. In addition, some of the stretching and mobilization that your therapist may do can be uncomfortable, particularly if you are inflexible or have had a surgery, but again should resolve quickly. Your response to therapy will be closely monitored by your therapist.

If you have any questions, simply contact us and we’ll be happy to provide you with any information you need.