As you’re getting ready for your physical therapy appointment, there are probably a few things that you’re thinking about, like if you have a copay for this visit or errands that you need to do afterward. But one thing to consider is what to wear to your physical therapy appointment.
Physical therapy is a type of healthcare appointment, but it involves quite a bit of moving around during exercises, meaning comfort is key. You also need to make sure that you’re wearing clothing that doesn’t interfere with assessments or hands-on techniques, such as manual therapy. By learning how to dress for your physical therapy sessions, you can focus on being engaged in the treatment and moving along your wellness journey.
A guide on what to wear to physical therapy
You don’t want to overthink what you’re wearing when you’re getting dressed for physical therapy, but you also don’t want to go through the session in uncomfortable clothes that are restricting you from getting the most out of the techniques. We’ll walk you through pieces of your outfit to consider when you’re getting ready.
- Shirts
Your top should be made of loose, breathable material so you don’t overheat during exercises. You also need to make sure that your physical therapist can touch the affected part of your body for manual therapy, such as your neck, shoulders and arms.
What to wear:
- Loose T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Sports bras for women
What not to wear:
- Tops with uncomfortable zippers or buttons
- Dress shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Bottoms
Shorts are normally preferable to pants for physical therapy because they allow for more movement. The physical therapist can also do manual therapy on your legs, if needed. If you’re not doing lower body treatment, sweatpants or leggings can work, if that’s your preference.
What to wear:
- Shorts with an elastic waistband
- Active wear, such as leggings
- Bike shorts
What not to wear:
- Jeans
- Tight shorts
- Skirt
- Shoes
An outfit isn’t complete without shoes, but they also play an important role in the success of your physical therapy sessions. If you’re not comfortable standing, walking and maybe even jumping or running in your shoes, it can limit your progress. The shoes should also provide you with stability and support your posture to reduce the risk of injury while completing exercises.
What to wear:
- Athletic shoes
- Tennis shoes
- Running shoes
What not to wear:
- Flats
- Flip-flops
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
If you’re ever unsure about what to wear, don’t be afraid to ask your physical therapist. At REPAIR SI, we believe that you can dress for success when it comes to physical therapy.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.