What to expect
COMPLETING AN INTAKE FORM
You will be required to fill out an intake form with your first visit to our clinic. It can take some time, and it is recommended you do it online before your visit to maximize your time with your therapist. Alternatively, we can give you a paper copy and ask you to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Being as detailed as you can helps your therapist understand your body and avoid techniques that may otherwise be contraindicated to your condition. Your information will be kept strictly confidential and disclosed only with your prior signed consent.
ASSESSMENT
A quick but thorough assessment will take place during each visit and will last 5-7 minutes. Assessment is part of your scheduled treatment time. You will be asked to explain the nature of your visit, describe a brief history of the problem, and any recent injuries and health conditions. We will ask about the type of medications you are currently taking. Depending on the nature of the issue, we will perform a range of motion assessment of a particular joint to establish any discrepancies, palpate relevant musculature to reveal tightness or pain, and may proceed to more in-depth testing if the situation warrants.
DISROBING AND DRAPING
We create a safe and respectful environment and only expose body areas that are currently being worked on. Before the start of your treatment, we will ask you to disrobe to your comfort level. Typically, clients keep their underwear on, and women remove their bras. We recognize that differences in personal and cultural attitudes towards disrobing exist and can work with your comfort level. Please talk to us about your concerns.
TREATMENT
We will proceed with the treatment you previously consented to. Communication is key. You are in complete control of your session and can change the technique, pressure, or body areas worked on at any point of your appointment. Your therapist may use heat or an ice pack if she feels it may benefit you and if you provide consent. During your treatment, you may be asked to change the position from lying on the stomach to your back or side. Your privacy will be preserved, and you’ll remain draped.
AFTER TREATMENT
When your treatment is complete, your therapist will let you know. They will give you privacy to get dressed and come back when you are ready. Depending on the reason for your visit, your therapist may recommend hydrotherapy, stretches, or strengthening exercises to maximize the benefit of the treatment. Your therapist will also discuss the need for future treatments if necessary.
