What’s involved in preparing for a virtual physical therapy session?

Virtual Physical Therapy
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Before the COVID-19 pandemic began, many people had not even heard of virtual physical therapy (PT). But recent events have made many people aware of this type of physical therapy. 

Virtual PT is a technology-based service, and it typically takes place over an online video connection. The benefits of this type of therapy are real and gaining increasing attention. For instance, patient costs are often significantly lower when using virtual PT, and this service helps people in rural areas get help without traveling for long distances. However, you may want to know what steps you’ll need to take to prepare for a virtual physical therapy session before doing your first one. 

Common preparation steps necessary for a virtual physical therapy session

Different physical therapy practices often have different rules and preparation steps for the virtual physical therapy sessions. Yet there are some steps that are common to almost all PT practices, including: 

  1. Ensuring you have good internet connection — Virtual PT is dependent on a good internet connection. It’s a good idea to check your connection before your session. This can help reduce the chances of an in-session internet issue. 
  1. Filling out forms — Much like an in-person therapy session, virtual PT sessions may require filling out some forms. In many cases, you’ll receive the required forms via email. You might also be asked to download them from the practice’s website. It’s a good idea to fill out and return these forms prior to your session. 
  1. Choosing the appropriate appointment space — Your physical therapist may need to assess your movements as part of your virtual PT session. This means the area of your home where you choose to have your session needs to have a fair amount of space. You may need to have space to perform some basic movements like: 
  • Walking a few steps.
  • Turning around.
  • Moving your arms and legs. 
  1. Download and set up any required software or apps — Virtual PT sessions are performed on different apps or software. Your therapist will likely let you know what platform they use prior to your session. It’s a good idea to download the required software or app to your device before your session; that way, you can get help if you have any issues with the software or app. 

Find effective virtual physical therapy from Excel PT

Want to try a virtual physical therapy session for your pain? Our Excel Sports & Physical Therapy team is ready and willing to help you. We’ve partnered with virtual PT experts Agile Virtual Care to offer this service. Some of the benefits this partnership can offer you include: 

  • Reduced pain.
  • More timely appointments. 
  • Significant cost savings.
  • Working with an experienced, licensed physical therapist. 

Contact our team today for more information about our virtual PT service or to schedule your initial appointment.