What Should You Wear to a Physical Therapy Appointment?

Figuring out what to wear to a physical therapy appointment might seem confusing. You want to be comfortable and able to move freely, but you also want to make sure your physical therapist can easily access any injured areas. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. With a little planning, you can choose an outfit that will have you feeling confident and ready for your physical therapy session. Think of it this way – what should you wear to a physical therapy appointment to best help your recovery? We’re about to cover everything you need to know to dress for PT success.

Choosing the Right Clothes: Key Factors to Keep in Mind

First, remember physical therapy is all about restoring and improving your movement. This means you should wear clothing that allows for a good range of motion.

Comfort is King

It seems obvious, but you want to feel comfy during your appointment. Avoid wearing tight clothing that digs, pinches, or restricts your movement. When it comes to comfortable clothing, think breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic wear to help you stay comfy and dry.

Easy Access is Key

Your physical therapist will need to see and assess the area they are treating. If you have a knee injury, for instance, wearing shorts or loose pants that can roll up above your knee is a must. Similarly, a loose-fitting tank top or loose T-shirt is a good idea for a shoulder injury.

Layering: Your Secret Weapon

Attending physical therapy often involves periods of both activity and rest. You might warm up during exercises and cool down afterward. That’s where layers come in. You can easily adjust your clothing throughout the session to maintain a comfortable temperature. Think T-shirt with a light jacket or sweatshirt that you can remove if needed.

Decoding the PT Dress Code: Specific Recommendations

Now you know the ground rules. Let’s apply them to different scenarios.

What should you wear to a physical therapy appointment for your upper body?

• Choose a loose-fitting tank, T-shirt, or sleeveless shirt, especially if you’re having your shoulder, elbow, or arm examined.
• If your neck is the issue, consider a top with a wide neckline.
• Ladies, a sports bra is always a good idea, especially if you might need to remove your shirt.

What should you wear to a physical therapy appointment for your lower body?

• Athletic shorts or loose, comfortable pants that can be rolled up are your best bets.
• Avoid jeans (they can restrict movement), restrictive leggings, or anything that doesn’t allow access to your hips, knees, and ankles.

Footwear: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Wearing proper footwear to physical therapy is just as important as choosing the right clothes. It impacts your balance, comfort, and safety during exercise. Here’s a table outlining the best and worst shoe choices for your therapy appointment:

Footwear Options for PT: The Dos and Don’ts
What to Wear	What to Avoid
Supportive athletic shoes or sneakers. Walking shoes	Sandals or flip-flops Heels, wedges, or dress shoes Slip-on shoes Boots (unless specifically instructed by your therapist)

A Few More Tips: Keeping Things Clean and Safe

We’ve covered the outfit basics. Now, let’s talk about some additional factors. Here are a few more suggestions to make your therapy treatment smoother:

Prioritize Cleanliness

Coming straight from the gym? Pack a fresh set of clothes if you can. E. Coli and salmonella are examples of bacteria that can survive for quite a while – on clothes included. Do your part to prevent spreading germs. This helps ensure a safe, hygienic environment for both you and your physical therapist. Plus, fresh clothes = feeling more confident.

Don’t Forget the Little Things

• If you have long hair, bring a hair tie to keep it out of your face during exercises.
• Minimize jewelry – dangling necklaces or bracelets can be distracting or even get in the way during movements.

Navigating Personal Comfort

We get it. Feeling comfortable at PT goes beyond just the right clothes. Here are some additional factors to consider:

Communicate Openly

Physical therapy can involve a lot of hands-on treatment. If there are any movements or exercises that make you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to let your therapist know. They’re pros at modifying treatments to accommodate different comfort levels.

Confidence is Key

Ditch any clothes that make you feel self-conscious. Feeling good in your own skin can actually help your mindset and boost your progress. It’s ok to have preferences – like wearing a loose T-shirt over a tank top, even if it covers your shoulders more. Choose options that make you feel confident and at ease.

FAQs about what should you wear to a physical therapy appointment

What should you not wear to physical therapy?

Avoid tight, restrictive clothing like jeans, dresses, or skirts. Ditch the flip-flops, sandals, and heels – opt for supportive athletic shoes instead. And while we love a good spritz of perfume, it’s best to go fragrance-free to your appointment.

What should I wear to a PT consultation?

Even though it’s a consultation, you might still be asked to do some light movements. Stick with comfortable clothes similar to a regular therapy session. Think athleisure wear or loose-fitting clothes you’d wear to a gentle exercise class.

Is there a dress code for physical therapy?

While there isn’t a strict dress code like a fancy restaurant, think “functional yet comfortable.” Most clinics are pretty casual. Aim for clothing that makes you feel confident while allowing you to move and stretch comfortably. Remember, comfort and functionality trump fashion in the world of PT.

Should I wear a bra to physical therapy?

It’s generally a good idea. You might need to remove your shirt for upper body treatment, and a sports bra offers better support, especially during exercises. Choose a style that provides comfort and coverage. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to chat with your physical therapist before your appointment. They’re there to make sure you’re as comfy as can be.

Conclusion

Preparing for physical therapy appointments might bring up a bunch of questions. It’s important to think about what you should wear to your physical therapy appointment because your clothing choice can actually make a difference in your comfort and how well you can perform certain exercises. By following the tips we’ve discussed, you can arrive ready for a successful, comfortable PT session.