What To Expect During A Session
Your First Visit to Healing Star PT
We understand that starting physical therapy — especially for the first time — can feel unfamiliar or even a little nerve-wracking. We want you to feel completely at ease from the moment you walk through our door. Here’s exactly what to expect.
Before You Arrive
What to bring:
- Photo ID and insurance card
- A prescription from your doctor (if you have one — not required in NJ)
- Any completed patient forms (available under Patient Resources)
- If your case involves workers’ compensation or a motor vehicle accident (MVA): your claim number, case manager/adjuster contact information, and any relevant documentation (declaration page, police report, etc.)
What to wear: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows your therapist to access and examine the area of concern. For shoulder issues, wear a tank top or short sleeves. For knee, hip, or ankle issues, wear shorts. Please also wear comfortable, supportive footwear.
Arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment to complete any remaining paperwork.
Your Initial Evaluation
Your first session is a comprehensive one-on-one evaluation with your physical therapist. This is where we take the time to truly understand you — your condition, your history, your goals, and what matters most to you.
During the evaluation, your therapist will:
- Ask detailed questions about your pain, symptoms, and medical history
- Assess your posture, movement patterns, and functional mobility
- Test your range of motion, strength, flexibility, and balance
- Palpate the affected area to assess muscle, joint, and tissue integrity
- Identify the root cause of your pain — not just the symptoms
This session typically lasts about one hour. By the end, you and your therapist will have a clear picture of what’s going on and a plan to address it.
Your Personalized Treatment Plan
After your evaluation, your therapist will develop a customized plan of care based on your diagnosis and goals. They’ll walk you through the plan, explain what each phase of treatment is designed to accomplish, and set realistic, meaningful milestones with you.
Your treatment sessions may include a combination of:
- Manual therapy — hands-on joint mobilization, soft tissue work, and myofascial release
- Therapeutic exercise — targeted strengthening, stretching, and movement re-education
- Advanced modalities — Class IV laser therapy, dry needling, electrical stimulation, ultrasound
- IASTM — instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for scar tissue and adhesions
- Cupping and kinesio taping — to support tissue healing and pain management
- Blood flow restriction training or focused shockwave therapy — where clinically indicated
Each follow-up session is typically 45–60 minutes. You will always work directly with your physical therapist — not an aide.
Your Role in Recovery
Physical therapy is a partnership. Your therapist brings the clinical expertise; you bring the effort and commitment. There will be sessions that challenge you, days when progress feels slow, and moments when your body is adapting to new demands. That’s all part of healing.
Communicate openly with your therapist — ask questions, share concerns, and tell them what you’re feeling. The more information they have, the better they can guide your recovery.
When the work is done, the results are yours to keep. We’ll make sure you have the tools, exercises, and knowledge to maintain your progress and prevent future injury long after your formal PT is complete.
New Jersey Direct Access
New Jersey is a direct-access state — meaning you do not need a referral from a physician to begin physical therapy. If you’re in pain, you can call us directly and get started right away. Our team will verify your insurance and walk you through everything.
| Eatontown: (848) 208-2721 | Freehold: (732) 272-1438