Your First Home Physiotherapy Session — What to Expect
If you have never had a physiotherapy session before, it is completely normal to wonder what will happen. Will it hurt? What should you wear? How long will it take? At Premcare Physiotherapy, we want you to feel completely comfortable and informed before your first home visit.
Here is a step-by-step walkthrough of what to expect.
Before the Session
- Booking: You can book via WhatsApp, phone call, or through our website. We will ask about your condition, preferred date and time, and your address in Lagos.
- Confirmation: We will confirm your appointment and assign a physiotherapist experienced in treating your condition.
- What to Wear: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that allow movement. For example, shorts and a T-shirt if your lower body is being treated, or a tank top if we need to assess your shoulders.
- Medical Records: If you have any relevant medical reports, X-rays, MRI results, or doctor's notes, please have them available for your therapist to review.
During the Session (60-75 Minutes)
Part 1: Assessment (20-25 Minutes)
Your physiotherapist will start by getting a thorough understanding of your condition:
- Your medical history and current symptoms
- When the pain started and what makes it better or worse
- Your daily activities, work, and exercise habits
- Your goals — what you want to achieve from physiotherapy
Part 2: Physical Examination (15-20 Minutes)
Your therapist will then perform a physical examination, which may include:
- Observing how you move — walking, bending, reaching
- Testing your range of motion in affected joints
- Assessing muscle strength and flexibility
- Special tests specific to your condition (e.g., nerve tests for sciatica)
- Checking your posture and alignment
Part 3: Treatment (20-25 Minutes)
Based on the assessment, your physiotherapist will begin treatment during the same session. This may include:
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility
- Therapeutic exercises: Guided exercises you will perform during the session
- Education: Explaining your condition, what is causing your symptoms, and what to expect
Part 4: Home Exercise Program (5-10 Minutes)
Before leaving, your therapist will give you a set of exercises to do between sessions. These are crucial to your recovery. You will receive:
- Clear instructions on each exercise
- How many times to do them each day
- What to avoid between sessions
- When to expect your next appointment
Does Physiotherapy Hurt?
Some techniques may cause mild discomfort, especially if you have significant inflammation or stiffness. However, physiotherapy should never cause severe pain. Your therapist will always check your comfort level and adjust the treatment accordingly. You are in control — if something hurts too much, just say so.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
This depends on your condition, but as a general guide:
- Mild conditions (recent muscle strain, mild back pain): 3-6 sessions
- Moderate conditions (chronic pain, post-surgery): 8-12 sessions
- Complex conditions (stroke recovery, neurological conditions): 12+ sessions, often ongoing
Your therapist will discuss a realistic treatment plan during your first session.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Physiotherapy
- Do your home exercises consistently — they make a huge difference
- Be honest about your pain levels — do not try to be tough
- Ask questions — understanding your condition helps your recovery
- Keep your follow-up appointments — consistency is key
- Share any changes in your symptoms with your therapist
Ready to book your first session? Contact us via WhatsApp or call +234 802 333 1387.
