What to Wear to Physical Therapy: Tips and Advice

Individuals with difficulty with normal functional mobility after surgery, injury, or illness may be referred to physical therapy during recovery. A common question patients have before treatment is: What should they wear to the physical therapy appointment?

What To Wear To Physical Therapy?

Individuals referred to physical therapy usually have questions about what to expect and how to prepare. What to wear is a common question and is important because patients want to wear the right physical therapy outfit for their specific condition and feel comfortable and safe at their physical therapy appointments. A treatment plan may include exercise and stretching. Clothing recommendations may vary slightly depending on the type of physical therapy the patient is receiving; it is recommended to wear:

• Athletic wear like t-shirts, shorts, yoga pants, and comfortable shoes like sneakers.
• Sometimes, exercises are performed, and modalities such as heat, cold, or electrical stimulation are applied.
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing allows for a full range of motion and easy access to the affected area.

Physical Therapy

• The therapist will examine the patient’s mobility and flexibility.
• Exercises may be prescribed, and therapeutic modalities, like ice or heat, may be applied.
• Wearing the right clothing can make the therapy experience highly effective and productive.

This way, therapy sessions go smoothly, and there is a level of comfort and confidence to reach goals quickly.

Upper Body Neck, Shoulders, Arms, Back

For upper body injuries, wear clothing that provides access and mobility to the areas affected, such as the neck, shoulders, arms, or back.

• For neck pain, wear a shirt that allows the therapist to see the neck, shoulders, and upper back, such as a loose, open T-shirt with a scoop neck, V-neck, or tank top.
• For long hair, bring a hair tie.
• Women are recommended to wear a sports bra.
• For an arm, wrist, or hand injury, wear a loose-fitting shirt with the arms exposed.
• Tight shirts like those made from Lycra are not advisable because the therapist cannot effectively evaluate and treat the injury if the patient wears something tight.

Lower Body, Hips, Legs, Knees

For lower extremity problems and injuries, wear clothing that allows free movement to exercise while allowing the therapist to visualize and examine the back, hips, knees, and legs.

• Wear a T-shirt, sports bra, and shorts or pants with an elastic waistband for back, lower spine, or pelvis injuries.
• For hip pain, the therapist should be able to see and adjust the spine and hips.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants that don’t allow for full movement.
• Shorts with an elastic waistband are recommended.
• Leggings may not roll up easily.

Feet and Ankles

For a foot or ankle injury, the therapist will want to observe the patient walk in shoes and bare feet for conditions like plantar fasciitis or ankle sprains. For any lower extremity condition, expect some light or heavy exercise. Wear socks to absorb sweat and odor and sneakers or athletic shoes. Avoid open-toed sandals, high heels, or casual lightweight footwear like Crocs.

Other Considerations

Avoid

• Bracelets and necklaces
• Turtleneck shirts
• Tight-fitting long-sleeved shirts
• Leggings
• Sandals

When preparing for appointments, consider your specific condition. Remember that you will likely be exercising, so wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to move around freely. If you are coming directly from work or a formal event, ask the office staff if there is a changing room that you can use. It may also be a good idea to avoid wearing dangling jewelry. A necklace or bracelet may get in the way, so be prepared to remove it for your appointments. Therapists can also use draping with towels or pillowcases/sheets to help you feel comfortable when certain body areas are exposed. That way, you can be relaxed and more able to focus on recovery and rehabilitation to return to normal activities.

Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic

If you are unsure if what you plan to wear is appropriate, call the office and ask. If you’re leaving work and need to change, make sure your therapist’s office has a place for you to do that. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.

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