Preparing For Physical Therapy

We worked with Sam Gladnick, a POTS physical therapist (PT), to help develop this extra resource for you to refer to when preparing for potential PT appointments. Given how difficult physical activity can be for many navigating these conditions, such as POTS (where exercise intolerance can be quite common), it is even more important to make sure you are preparing for appointments ahead of time. The goal is to maximize the time you have while in PT and minimize uncomfortable symptoms to the best of your ability! This is best achieved when working with a PT who is familiar with POTS and other conditions seen in our community, such as EDS, but there are other components to consider which we feel may be important to discuss. Please remember that all considerations are best when personalized to meet your individual needs, as there is a significant amount of variation in our community.

Helpful Considerations For PT Appointments

1.) It can be important for you to create the optimal environment for yourself prior to your appointment, focusing on aspects that are within your control. This may involve ensuring you have taken needed medications, hydrated appropriately (and perhaps more in anticipation, depending on what your medical team recommends), and that you bring your personalized POTS To-go bag with you (which contains everything you might need in the event of a flare).

2.) Make sure to bring your medication list and relevant medical history to your first appointment! Given how brain fog can impact our ability to remember these important components, it may be helpful to consider developing and bringing a Medical Passport with you. The more you have prepared ahead of time, often, the better! We should also note here that it is important to have a concise message for your PT, specific to what is bringing you to see them.

3.) It may be helpful to develop a few goals that you would like to realistically set for yourself and discuss those with your PT. They want to see you thrive and help you work towards your goals, so it can be helpful to be open with them about what you would like to work towards as they develop a plan for you. Some of these goals may include both short-term and long-term goals, which is great! They want to help you in every possible way that they can.

4.) Before or during your first appointment, there will likely be one or more forms you will be asked to complete that assess dizziness and other potential symptoms and barriers to daily functioning. Because these forms are not personalized, it is very possible that there are components within them that are not applicable to you and your current needs; it is important to do the best you can when filling out these forms, and remember that personalized and individualized approaches will be discussed during your appointment!

5.) Please be as honest as possible with your PT, as the more they know, the more likely they will be able to tailor care to meet your needs. It can be very difficult to be vulnerable in this way with a healthcare provider, especially given the significant dismissal experienced by so many navigating these conditions, but full transparency is incredibly important when establishing a relationship with a PT who is dedicated to helping you. Communication specific to your needs might involve telling them ahead of time if you are experiencing a flare-up, significant pain, or other symptoms during your appointment and/or at home when completing recommended exercises. Full transparency is essential when developing a relationship with a PT so they can individualize your care and help you reach your desired outcome!

6.) Advocate for yourself to the best of your ability!! This may look like you telling your PT that a certain exercise is too difficult for you, communicating symptoms you are experiencing during your appointment, and/or communicating concerns that you have. You are your own best advocate and know your body best! Communicating in this way can help you achieve your PT goals, as pushing yourself unnecessarily may lead to potential flare-ups and other unwanted outcomes. Do your best to explain how you are feeling, even if it is difficult to verbalize! They are there to help you.