If you’ve booked your first physiotherapy session, well done you’ve already taken an important step toward recovery, strength and better movement.
At Neil Minter & Associates, we know that starting something new can raise questions. What actually happens in a physio session? Will there be treatment on the first day? What should you wear?
Whether you’re recovering from injury, dealing with long-term pain, or preparing for surgery, this blog will walk you through what to expect and how to get the most out of your first appointment.
What Happens at Your First Physio Appointment?
Your first session is all about getting to know you your body, your goals, and what’s been holding you back. Typically lasting around 45–60 minutes, here’s how the appointment usually flows:
- Let’s Talk
We’ll start with a relaxed conversation about:
- What brought you in (and how long it’s been going on)
- Any past injuries, surgeries, or ongoing conditions
- What makes your symptoms better or worse
- Your daily routine, job, hobbies, and activity levels
Understanding the bigger picture helps us treat not just the symptoms, but the source of the problem.
- Let’s Move
Next, we’ll carry out a physical assessment. This might involve:
- Observing your posture and movement
- Testing your strength, flexibility or joint mobility
- Identifying patterns in how you walk, sit or stand
- Gentle hands-on assessment of muscles, fascia or joints
You won’t be asked to do anything painful, we’re here to learn from your body, not stress it.
- Let’s Plan
After your assessment, we’ll talk through:
- What we’ve found and what it means
- What treatment options are most suitable
- How long recovery might take
- What you can start doing today to feel better
In many cases, you’ll begin some form of treatment straight away, whether that’s hands-on therapy, guided exercises, or soft tissue work.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
A little preparation can go a long way in making your first session smooth and productive. Here are our top tips:
Dress for Movement
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in. For example:
- Shorts or loose trousers if we’re assessing your hips, knees or back
- Vest or sleeveless top for shoulders or neck issues
We may ask you to remove a layer so we can see or treat the affected area.
Bring Anything That Helps
If you have them, please bring:
- GP or consultant referral letters
- Recent scan or X-ray results
- A list of current medications
Don’t worry if you don’t have any paperwork, it’s helpful, but not essential.
Know What You Want to Achieve
Whether your goal is to walk pain-free, return to sport, or manage a long-standing condition, let us know. Understanding what matters most to you helps us build the right plan from day one.
What Makes Neil Minter & Associates Different?
With over 20 years of experience and clinics across Sandhurst, Crowthorne, and Yateley, our approach is:
- Personalised: No generic routines, just expert, tailored care
- Hands-on: We combine manual therapy, soft tissue release and advanced techniques
- Technology-enhanced: We offer Game Ready™ cryotherapy, low-level laser, and electrotherapy to support recovery at every stage
Our patients range from professional athletes to active retirees, and every treatment plan is built around your body, your pace, and your goals.
Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to support you every step of the way from first consultation to full recovery.
Book your appointment today at one of our local clinics in Sandhurst, Crowthorne or Yateley, and take the first step toward moving better and feeling stronger.
