What to wear and bring to a physiotherapy appointment
In short
Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move and gives practical access to the area being assessed while preserving your comfort and dignity. Bring relevant medical or surgical records you already have, a medicine list when relevant, and any questions or goals you want to discuss.
In this guide (6 sections)
Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move and gives practical access to the area being assessed while preserving your comfort and dignity. Bring relevant medical or surgical records you already have, a medicine list when relevant, and any questions or goals you want to discuss.
You do not need special gym clothes for every physiotherapy appointment. The useful principle is access plus comfort. A shoulder assessment and a knee assessment may require different clothing, and you can always ask the physiotherapist what is appropriate.
Choose clothing for movement and access
For a lower-limb or knee problem, shorts or loose trousers that can be moved easily may help. For a shoulder or upper-back problem, clothing that allows comfortable access to the area can make assessment easier. If you have cultural, religious, privacy, or personal preferences, tell the physiotherapist so the examination can be adapted appropriately.
Bring only the records that are relevant
Useful documents can include recent imaging reports, discharge summaries, operative notes or protocols, prescriptions, and previous physiotherapy information. If you do not have imaging, you do not need to obtain it simply because you are attending physiotherapy unless a clinician has advised it.
Bring a current medicine list when it matters
For post-operative, older, medically complex, or neurological patients, a current medicine list can provide useful context. Do not stop or change medicines before the appointment unless the prescribing clinician has told you to.
Bring your goals and questions
Think about what you want to return to: work, walking, stairs, sport, sleep, lifting, caring for a child, or another task. Ask what the physiotherapist is assessing, what the goals are, what you should do between visits, and when progress will be reviewed.
Comparing a few physiotherapists? The checklist for what to confirm before you book is kept in one place.
Physiotherapy booking checklistFrequently asked questions
Can I wear jeans to physiotherapy?
You can, but restrictive clothing can make some movement assessments harder. Comfortable clothing that allows access is usually more practical.
Do I need to bring my MRI?
Bring relevant imaging or reports you already have. New imaging is not routinely required before every physiotherapy appointment.
Should I bring someone with me?
You can bring a support person when appropriate, subject to the clinic or home-visit setting and your preferences.
Do I need sports shoes?
Only when the assessment or activity makes them useful. If you are unsure, bring the footwear you normally use for the activity that concerns you.
Evidence reviewed 20 August 2026. General information only.
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The BookPhysio.in editorial team writes and maintains this content, checking it against reliable clinical sources. Content follows our medical review policy: general information only, and no page claims a clinical review until a named registered physiotherapist has signed it off.
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