What to Bring to Your First Physical Therapy Visit
Walk in prepared
Your first physical therapy visit sets the tone for everything that follows. A few small things in your bag can save fifteen minutes of paperwork and let your Doctor of Physical Therapy spend more time on what actually matters: evaluating your shoulder or elbow and building your plan.
Use this checklist before you head to TKM Labs in Salt Lake City.
Photo ID
Bring a driver's license or any government-issued photo ID. We'll make a copy at check-in for your chart.
Your physician referral or surgical notes (if applicable)
If your visit is post-surgical or follows an imaging study, bring a copy of your operative report, MRI, or X-ray summary. The more we know about what's been done, the more precise your plan can be.
A list of medications and prior treatments
Write down any medications you take regularly along with previous physical therapy, injections, or procedures related to the area we're treating. It helps us avoid redundant work and design a plan that builds on what's already been tried.
Comfortable clothing and athletic shoes
Wear something that allows easy access to the shoulder we'll be evaluating. A loose t-shirt or tank works well. Avoid turtlenecks and tight long sleeves. Bring supportive athletic shoes for any standing or movement screening.
Your goals, written down
Take two minutes before your appointment to jot down what you want to get back to. Throwing a baseball pain free, sleeping on your side again, lifting your child without flaring up. Specific goals make for a specific plan.
Questions for your physical therapist
Bring any questions you've been holding onto about your injury, recovery timeline, or what your imaging actually means. Your first visit is the right time to ask them all.
