What would you ask the PT on your first visit?

[Dawnela]

I have an appointment with a PT next week for an evaluation. My pain seems a lot more like spasms and is localized on the left side, so I believe it could be PFD. I was wondering what those of you who have gone through PT would ask their therapist on their first visit if they were to do it again? I live in a somewhat remote area and my choices of providers are limited by geography. I did ask for someone with experience with pelvic floor issues and got an appointment with the therapist that treats pelvic issues. But I do not know what experience she has with PFD, IC, or related conditions.

Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences! Any help on what questions I should be asking would be most appreciated!

Dawn

[readingmom]

The very first thing that I would ask is whether she has certification in pelvic floor dysfunctions. I know that in my state(Tennessee) it is required, if you are working with pelvic issues, but I'm not sure about California. My PT was very familiar with IC so she really helped to educate me.

[Sunflower2]

I agree with above post. The first and most important thing to ask for you PT is she/ he is certified for PFD. If not, find someone who is certified for IC/ PFD. My PT is specialized in IC, so she is very knowledageble for IC/PFD issues.

[rosesitty]

Besides the obvious of asking if she is certified in pelvic floor PT, I'd ask her what the plan is going to be. Internal first? External first? What might be the side effects? How long does she anticipate treatment? What about biofeedback? How often for treatment?
I think the most important thing is to address what kind of plan she's putting into place. Doing helter skelter PT isn't going to help anyone.
Stephanie