What Happens During Your First Occupational Therapy Visit?

It is normal to feel nervous before your first occupational therapy visit. You may wonder:



• What will the therapist ask me?
• Will I have to do exercises?
• Will anything hurt?
• What should I wear?
• How long will the visit take?

Knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease. Your first visit is a chance for us to learn about you, answer your questions, and begin making a plan to help you feel and function better.

At Functional Living Solutions Occupational Therapy, your first appointment is a one-on-one evaluation with an occupational therapist. It usually lasts about 60 minutes.

We Will Start by Talking

Your first visit will begin with a conversation. We want to know what brought you to occupational therapy and how the problem is affecting your life.

We may ask:

• When did the problem begin?
• Did you have an injury or surgery?
• Where do you feel pain, weakness, or numbness?
• Which activities are hard for you?
• What have you stopped doing because of the problem?
• What would you like to be able to do again?

There are no right or wrong answers. You do not need to use medical terms. Just explain what you are feeling and what has become difficult.

Maybe you want to get dressed without help. You may want to cook, garden, drive, work, or use your hand with less pain. You may want to improve the use of your arm after a stroke.

These everyday goals are an important part of occupational therapy. You can learn more about occupational therapy and how it may help you return to the activities that matter to you.

We Will Review Your Health History

Next, we will talk about your health history. This helps us make sure your care is safe.

We may ask about:

• Past injuries or surgeries
• Current health conditions
• Pain, swelling, or numbness
• Falls or changes in balance
• Medications
• Treatments you have already tried
• Instructions from your doctor or surgeon

Please tell us about any recent changes in your health. Even something that seems small may be helpful for your therapist to know.

Your Therapist Will Check How You Move

The hands-on part of your occupational therapy evaluation will depend on your needs.

Your therapist may check:

• Shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand movement
• Arm and hand strength
• Grip and pinch strength
• Swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• Feeling in your arm or hand
• Coordination
• Muscle tightness
• Your ability to complete daily tasks

You may be asked to reach, bend your arm, squeeze a testing tool, or pick up small objects.

You may also be asked to show how you complete an activity that has become hard for you.

These are not tests that you can pass or fail. They simply help your therapist understand what is working well and what may be getting in your way.

The American Occupational Therapy Association explains that an OT evaluation looks at your needs, your daily activities, and the goals that matter to you.

Will the Evaluation Hurt?

The goal is not to make your pain worse.

Some movements may bring on your symptoms. This can help us understand what is causing the problem. However, you should always tell your therapist if something hurts or does not feel right.

You are in control during the visit. We can stop, change, or skip an activity when needed.

Will I Start Treatment During My First Visit?

Your first visit is mainly an evaluation. However, treatment may begin that day if there is enough time and it is safe for you.

You may learn:

• A gentle exercise
• A better way to move or position your arm
• Ways to protect a sore joint
• Ideas for managing pain or swelling
• Simple changes that may make daily tasks easier

You may also receive a few activities to practice at home. Your therapist will show you how to do them safely.

We Will Make a Treatment Plan Together

After the evaluation, your therapist will explain what was found. Together, you will talk about your goals and the next steps.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Exercises to improve movement and strength
• Hands-on treatment
• Activities based on your daily needs
• Pain or swelling management
• Joint protection
• Home exercises
• Training for a family member or caregiver

You will also talk about how often you may need occupational therapy. Your treatment plan will be made for you. It will not be the same plan given to every patient.

At Functional Living Solutions Occupational Therapy, your goals are my goals. We will focus on the activities that are most important to your life.

What Should I Bring?

Please bring:

• A photo ID
• Your insurance cards
• A list of your medications
• Your doctor's order or referral, if you have one
• Any rules or precautions from your doctor or surgeon
• Any braces or supports you currently use
• A list of questions you want to ask

Please complete your intake forms before the visit if possible. This gives us more time to focus on you during your appointment.

What Should I Wear?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move.

If we are looking at your shoulder or upper arm, wear a loose shirt or short sleeves. For a hand, wrist, or elbow problem, wear clothing that allows us to easily see the area.



You do not need to buy special clothes or equipment.

It Is Okay to Ask Questions

Your first visit is also a time for you to ask questions.

You may want to ask:

• What do you think is causing my problem?
• How often should I come to therapy?
• What can I do safely at home?
• Are there activities I should avoid?
• When might I notice improvement?

We want you to understand your treatment and feel comfortable with your plan.

Your First Visit is a Partnership

Your first occupational therapy visit is not a test. You do not need to perform perfectly or have all the answers.

Simply tell us what has changed, what is hard, and what you want to do again. We will take it from there.

Functional Living Solutions Occupational Therapy provides one-on-one care for adults and teens age 14 and older. We treat hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder conditions. We also help people recovering from a stroke or neurological condition and those living with arthritis or chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions