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General Physiotherapy

What to Expect at Your First Physiotherapy Appointment

New to physio? Your first visit is an assessment-first appointment — here is exactly what happens, how long it takes, and what to bring.

By Fiona Casey · 17 September 2026 · 2 min read

Physiotherapist explaining a home exercise to a patient during their first session
Physiotherapist explaining a home exercise to a patient during their first session

A first appointment at the clinic always starts with a thorough assessment — the plan is built around your complaint, your activity and your goals, never a one-size-fits-all list.

Before you arrive

  • Wear or bring comfortable clothing — shorts allow better examination of knees, hips and backs; a t-shirt for shoulders and necks
  • Have your medical history to hand — medications, recent scans or letters, and anything a previous practitioner told you
  • No referral is needed. The clinic is an approved provider with VHI, Laya and Aviva

What happens during the session

  1. Your story — how the problem started, how it behaves, and what you want to get back to
  2. The examination — movement, strength, and hands-on assessment to find the source of the problem, not just the symptoms
  3. The explanation — what is going on, in plain language, and what it means for you
  4. The plan — hands-on treatment where appropriate, specific exercises, and clear milestones so you know what progress looks like

New patients book a 30-minute initial assessment; returning patients book a 45-minute follow-up. You will get an instant confirmation when you book online.

After the session

You should leave knowing what is wrong, what to do at home, and when to come back. Treatment is hands-on and always explained clearly along the way — and you can call or email the clinic any time if a question comes up between visits.

Key takeaways

  • The first visit is assessment-first — your history, then movement, then hands-on care
  • Wear comfortable clothing; bring relevant history and scans if you have them
  • No referral letter required
  • You leave with an explanation and a plan, not just a treatment

Book your first appointment online — or call 087 962 7573 and Fiona will help.

This article is general information and is not a substitute for an individual assessment. If you are unsure about your symptoms, or they are not settling, book an appointment or call 087 962 7573.

Ready to get started?

Book an appointment and Fiona will build a plan around you.