Before beginning physical therapy (PT), a patient typically has a physical examination from a physician, often an orthopedist. A physician must provide a medical prescription for physical therapy that indicates the diagnosis and recommendation for treatment. The physician will note any restrictions, such as weight-bearing status after a hip replacement or blood pressure and heart rate during cardiac rehabilitation.

Once physical therapy is prescribed, the patient will be seen by a registered physical therapist (RPT), who will review the patient's medical history and conduct an evaluation. The medical history covers medications and any previous therapy or surgeries.

Patients may be asked to fully describe the pain. They may be asked to complete a pain assessment form or be given a diagram of the body and asked to mark areas of the body where they are experiencing pain. Questions to pinpoint the pain may include:

• Can you describe the pain?
• Where does it occur?
• How long have you experienced the pain?
• Have you experienced this type of pain in the past?
• Is the pain constant or does it come and go?
• Are there any movements that make it worse?
• Do you have limited movement?

During the evaluation, a physical therapist will test movement by asking the patient to move a body part or by moving it manually. Measurements of strength, flexibility and joint motion will be obtained. Balance, posture and endurance also may be assessed in a variety of modes. Any gait disturbances or impairments in ambulation (walking) or wheelchair mobility will be noted.

After the evaluation, the physical therapist will review the results with the patient and ordering physician. A plan of treatment, including goals and methods of therapy, will be covered as well.