Your First Visit: What to Expect at Union Physical Therapy in Seattle

Welcome to Union Physical Therapy! We’re honored you’ve chosen us to be your partner in health and recovery. We know that starting physical therapy can bring up a few questions, so we’ve designed this page to ensure you feel prepared, comfortable, and confident from the moment you walk through our doors. Our goal is to make your first experience seamless, so we can focus on what matters most: helping you get back to the activities you love.

Our clinic, conveniently located in the heart of Seattle, is a welcoming space staffed by a friendly team dedicated to your recovery. We’re committed to providing the highest quality care to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. 

Preparing for Your Appointment

To make your first visit as smooth as possible, please plan to arrive 15 minutes early. This will give you ample time to complete your new patient paperwork without feeling rushed.

  • What to Wear: Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely and provides easy access to the area we will be evaluating. For example, if we are looking at your knee, shorts are ideal. For a shoulder issue, a tank top is helpful.
  • Parking: We are happy to offer free off-street parking in the back of our building, making your visit that much easier.
  • What to Bring:
    • Your photo ID
    • Your health insurance card
    • A physician’s referral or prescription, if you have one.
    • Any relevant medical records, such as imaging reports (X-ray, MRI).

What to Expect During Your Evaluation

Your first appointment will last approximately one hour and will be a comprehensive, one-on-one session with your Doctor of Physical Therapy. This visit is crucial for us to understand your condition and for you to understand our plan for your recovery.

1. The Conversation (Subjective History)

We’ll begin by listening. Your therapist will ask you detailed questions about your pain, symptoms, and medical history. 4We want to understand how your condition is impacting your life and what your specific goals are—whether it’s getting back to running around Green Lake or climbing at Exit 38. 5 This conversation is the foundation of your personalized treatment plan.

2. The Assessment (Objective Examination)

Next, your therapist will conduct a thorough physical examination. This may include:

  • Movement Analysis: Assessing how you walk, bend, and perform specific functional movements.
  • Range of Motion Testing: Measuring the mobility of your joints.
  • Strength & Flexibility Tests: Evaluating muscle strength and flexibility to identify imbalances.
  • Specialized Hands-On Tests: Using skilled palpation and diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact source of your pain.

3. The Plan of Care

Based on your history and the examination findings, your physical therapist will explain their diagnosis in clear, understandable terms. Together, you will establish a personalized plan of care that includes:

  • The recommended frequency and duration of your visits.
  • The specific treatments and interventions you will receive.
  • A customized home exercise program to accelerate your recovery.
  • Clear, achievable goals to track your progress.

Our clinic offers a wide range of evidence-based treatments. Depending on your needs, your plan may include specialized techniques like Manual Therapy, Dry Needling, or Shockwave Therapy. You can learn more about our comprehensive offerings on our Services Page.

Patient-Centered Care for the Seattle Athlete

At Union PT, we specialize in treating outdoor athletes and active individuals. Many of our therapists are climbers, runners, skiers, and cyclists themselves, giving them a profound understanding of the demands your sport places on your body. This personal experience allows us to create rehabilitation programs that are not just about eliminating pain, but about optimizing your performance and preventing future injuries. 

Billing and Insurance Questions

Navigating insurance can be confusing, and we are here to help. For detailed information about the insurance plans we accept and our self-pay rates, please visit our Insurance and Pricing Page.

If you have specific questions about your statement or the billing process, our Billing Page provides further details and contact information for our billing manager.

What Our Patients Say

As a first-time PT patient, I was initially skeptical, but my experience here has been nothing short of outstanding. The administrative staff are incredibly responsive and make scheduling a breeze, and my physical therapist…is exceptional.

– Eric Watt F., Google Review

The entire staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about your recovery. The clinic is clean, well-organized, and flexible with scheduling, which made it easy to stay consistent.

– Moore P., Google Review

Came in because of an ongoing issue that was remarkably painful and difficult to figure out. Cat M. has been great to work with – clear instructions, really listened to help me reach my goals, and helped relieve the pain! Easy to schedule, easy to find, super helpful front desk staff. Can’t recommend them enough.

– Lauren W., Google Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Does physical therapy hurt?

Our goal is to alleviate pain, not create it. While some treatments may cause temporary soreness as we work to restore mobility and strength, your therapist will always work within your comfort level and communicate with you throughout the session.

How long will my appointments be?

Your initial evaluation and follow-up appointments are typically 45-60 minutes, depending on your specific plan of care.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist?

Washington is a “Direct Access” state, which means you do not need a physician’s referral to be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist. 15 However, some insurance plans may still require a referral for coverage, so we recommend checking with your provider.