In the Healthcare Navigation post, I mentioned how an exam/evaluation for chronic pain with a healthcare provider is very important for positive outcomes for patient with chronic pain. The evaluation process is used screen the patient, get a better understanding of pain presentation, discuss treatments, and provide education.
The image below shows parts of an examination process with a team approach. I thought this was a great guide because it speaks on including the different members of the healthcare team for pain managment that is common to have. The two sections that relate to the PT exam process are described below. PT's do "provide care", treatment, and "support+improve" but we will talk about how they do all that fun stuff in a post coming in a few weeks. *sneak peak to future content ;)
Gather Information: in any setting having a conversation about your pain, history, or functional limitations is how the provider can understand your valid and real pain. This is when you would fill out the screening photos and intake forms.
Screen and Educate: during this portion of the exam the provider individualizes the process based on the patients history. This might depend on your pain level, or other factors.
Q: What should I expect during a PT Evaluation
MOVEMENT - large movements for PTs to look at how well the body moves in space, or when you might to start to feel pain
TOUCH - Feeling the area causing pain for an noticeable changes
SENSORY - sensation testing and reflexes
STRENGTH - looking at the integrity of muscles
While it may not seem like a lot, a PT would be able to use the results from the exam to have a better understanding of the source of your pain and where to begin treatments. So no need to fear the exam process, it is an exam you can easily ACE! The exam process for other providers may vary but as physical therapists our goal with an evaluation is to understand the patients chief complaint, find your pain level, and organize treatment session to reach your goals.
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