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Physiotherapy Edmonton
Preparing for Your First Visit
What to bring, what to wear and what happens at your first appointment
Before You Arrive
A few minutes of preparation makes the first appointment far more useful.
- Write down your questions. People forget them in the room. A short list means nothing gets missed.
- Note what makes it better or worse — time of day, particular movements, sitting, sleeping, work tasks. This is often more useful than a scan.
- Bring a list of your medications, including anything over the counter.
- Bring relevant history — previous injuries, surgeries, imaging reports if you have them.
- Check your coverage. Call the number on your benefits card, or see our insurance page and we will check for you.
- Bring your claim number if this relates to a motor vehicle accident or a WCB claim.
What to Wear
Wear something you can move in, and that allows us to see the area we are assessing.
- Back, hip or knee: shorts or loose trousers.
- Shoulder, neck or upper back: a vest top or loose t-shirt.
- Foot or ankle: bring the shoes you wear most, including runners if you are active.
If you forget, we have space to change and we can work around it. You will never be asked to remove more clothing than is needed, and you can bring someone with you into the room if you would prefer.
When You Arrive
Arrive about ten minutes before your first appointment so the paperwork does not cut into your treatment time. Reception will take your details, confirm your coverage and answer any billing questions.
See the parking guide if you have not been to the clinic before.
What Happens in Your First Appointment
The first visit is mostly assessment, and it starts with a conversation.
- Your history — what happened, how it behaves, what you have already tried, and what you want to get back to.
- Physical assessment — movement, strength, and specific tests relevant to your problem. Everything is explained before it is done.
- Explanation — what we think is going on, in plain language. If we are uncertain, we will say so.
- A plan — what treatment involves, roughly how often, and what you can do between visits.
- Treatment — most people start treatment on the first visit where it is appropriate.
If we think physiotherapy is not the right answer for you, or something needs a physician’s attention first, we will tell you that too.
Questions Worth Asking
It is your appointment. Reasonable things to ask:
- What do you think is causing this?
- How confident are you in that, and what would change your mind?
- What should I expect over the next few weeks?
- What should I do — and avoid — between now and my next visit?
- How will we know it is working?
- How many visits do you expect, and what will it cost?
Bringing Someone With You
You are welcome to bring a family member, friend, interpreter or support person to any appointment. For children and younger teens we would expect a parent or caregiver to be present.
If you would prefer a therapist of a particular gender, tell us when you book and we will arrange it where we can.
If You Need to Change Your Appointment
Call (587) 409-1754 as early as you can. Appointment times are held one-to-one, so advance notice lets us offer the slot to someone else.
If you are unwell on the day, call us rather than attending — we can usually rebook you quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive?
About ten minutes before your first appointment so paperwork does not eat into your treatment time. For follow-up visits, arriving a few minutes early is plenty.
Do I need a doctor referral?
No. In Alberta you can book physiotherapy directly. Some insurance plans require a referral before they will reimburse, so check your plan first.
Will I get treatment on the first visit?
Usually yes. The first appointment is mostly assessment, but most people start treatment the same day where it is appropriate.
What should I bring?
A list of your medications, any relevant imaging reports, your insurance details, and a claim number if this relates to a motor vehicle accident or WCB claim.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, to any appointment. For children and younger teens we would expect a parent or caregiver to be present.
Can I request a male or female therapist?
Yes. Tell us when you book and we will arrange it where we can.
Still Have a Question?
Call (587) 409-1754 or email info@instepphysio.ca. Reception can answer questions about booking, coverage and what to expect before you commit to an appointment.