What to Expect at Your First Physiotherapy Appointment in Markham

What to Expect at Your First Physiotherapy Appointment in Markham

Published by Markham Pain Clinic · November 7, 2026

Your first physiotherapy appointment in Markham usually begins with a conversation about your health history, symptoms, daily activities, and goals.[1] A physiotherapist may then assess relevant movement and function, explain the findings, and discuss an individualized plan.[1][2] What happens depends on your needs, and you can ask questions or pause at any point.[1][3]

What happens during a first physiotherapy appointment?

A first visit is mainly an assessment.[1][2] The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario says a physiotherapist generally learns about your medical history, assesses your condition, works with you to set goals, and develops a treatment plan.[1] Exercises or an assistive device may be suggested when appropriate.[1]

At Markham Pain Clinic, the physiotherapy service is described as a movement-based approach that supports mobility and physical function. The clinic's process starts with assessment and planning, followed by care suited to the findings and your goals. Read about the clinic's physiotherapy service: https://www.markhampain.com/services/physiotherapy

What questions might the physiotherapist ask?

Expect questions that help place your concern in context.[1][2] These may cover:

• when the concern began and how it has changed
• activities that are difficult or important to you
• your health history and relevant past care[1]
• your work, sport, exercise, and everyday movement demands
• what you hope to be able to do more comfortably or confidently[1][2]

Clear answers help the physiotherapist choose an assessment that fits the concern.[1][2] Ontario's professional standard says an appropriate assessment includes a history and a physical examination relevant to the symptoms being presented.[2]

What might the physical assessment include?

The assessment will depend on the body area and your reason for attending.[2] It may involve observing how you move and checking relevant mobility, strength, balance, or task-specific function.[2] Not every test is needed for every person.[2]

The physiotherapist should explain what they propose and use professional judgment to select suitable assessment procedures.[2][3] The findings help shape a practical plan, and reassessment may be used later to monitor progress.[2]

Can treatment begin at the first visit?

Treatment may begin when it is appropriate, but an assessment does not guarantee that a particular technique will be used.[2] Your physiotherapist should explain the proposed care, expected benefits, material risks or side effects, alternatives, and what may happen if you do not proceed.[2][3]

Consent is ongoing.[3] You can ask questions, refuse part of an assessment or treatment, or withdraw consent at any time.[3]

How should you prepare for the appointment?

A little preparation can make the conversation more useful.[1]

• wear clothing that allows the relevant area to move comfortably
• note the activities that are limited and the goals that matter to you
• write down questions about the assessment, plan, costs, or expected follow-up[1]
• check your insurance requirements before the visit, because plans may differ[1]

The College also recommends checking Ontario's Public Register to confirm that a person is registered to practise as a physiotherapist.[1]

What should you know before booking physiotherapy in Markham?

Physiotherapy plans should reflect the assessment, your goals, and your response over time.[2] No fixed number of visits or specific result can be promised before an individual assessment.[1][2]

Markham Pain Clinic 8312 McCowan Rd Suite #206 Markham, ON L3P 8E1 +1 905-470-2626

Contact the clinic: https://www.markhampain.com/contact Book an appointment: https://markhampainclinic.janeapp.com/

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know exactly what is causing my symptoms before I attend?

No. The first appointment is used to gather a history and assess relevant movement and function.[1][2] The physiotherapist will decide which assessment steps are appropriate and should explain the findings within their professional scope.[2]

Will every first appointment include hands-on treatment?

Not necessarily. The visit may focus on assessment, education, goal setting, exercises, or a proposed treatment plan.[1][2] What is appropriate depends on the findings and your informed consent.[2][3]

Can I stop an assessment or treatment if I am uncomfortable?

Yes. Ontario guidance says patients can refuse treatment or withdraw consent at any time.[3] Tell the physiotherapist if you have questions, need an explanation, or want to pause.[3]

Medical Disclaimer

This article provides general educational information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, or if you believe you may have a medical emergency.

Sources

[1] https://collegept.org/patients/what-is-physiotherapy — What is Physiotherapy - College of Physiotherapists of Ontario [2] https://collegept.org/standard/assessment-diagnosis-treatment-standard — Assessment, Diagnosis, Treatment Standard - College of Physiotherapists of Ontario [3] https://collegept.org/resource/consent — Consent - College of Physiotherapists of Ontario