What happens in a virtual physiotherapy appointment?

A walkthrough of a virtual physiotherapy appointment — what you need at home, what the first visit includes, and what to do if technology is not your favourite thing.

Written and reviewed by Lisa Jasper, PT, PhD, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta · Last reviewed September 2026

What happens in a virtual physiotherapy appointment?

You meet your physiotherapist one-on-one by video, from home. The first appointment is a detailed conversation about your health and goals, followed by a look at how you move; you leave with a plan of education, exercises, and strategies that fit your life.

The assessment is unhurried. We take time to understand your health, your goals, your challenges, and what matters most to you, and we look at how you move and what your day-to-day life asks of you.

From there, you and your physiotherapist develop a realistic plan together: practical education about your condition and strategies for movement, exercise, and self-management that fit your life. Virtual delivery is established practice in Alberta — Alberta Health Services provides AHS-funded physiotherapy virtually or in-person — and you do not need a referral to begin. See Do I need a referral for physiotherapy in Alberta?

What do I need at home?

A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet service; enough floor space to move; and a chair. If your program would benefit from simple equipment, like a resistance band or weights, we will tell you exactly what to get.

That is the whole list. Our FAQ covers this and other common questions about how virtual physiotherapy works.

What does the first appointment include?

Much the same as an in-person visit. Your physiotherapist takes a detailed history to understand your symptoms, medical history, and goals, then observes your movement and guides you through appropriate exercises or strategies. You receive education, advice, and a personalized plan built around your specific goals.

Beyond the short equipment list, the only preparation that helps is practical: wear clothing you can move in, and set up your device so the camera can see you while you move.

What if I am not confident with technology?

You do not need to be. If you can answer a video call on a phone, tablet, or computer, you can attend a virtual physiotherapy appointment. A family member or friend can help you set up the first time, and after that it is the same few steps each visit.

If technology is the thing holding you back, say so on the free program-information call. We would rather talk it through with you than have you rule out care that might suit you.

Still weighing the format itself? Does virtual physiotherapy work? looks honestly at the research and its limits.

When in-person care is the right call

Some situations require in-person care — hands-on assessment or manual therapy, for example — and your physiotherapist will tell you honestly if yours is one of them. You can raise this on the program-information call before you begin.

Sources: Alberta Health Services, “Physiotherapy Services”

Two programs

arthritisUpdated

Alberta residents · Accepting patients

For people with hip or knee osteoarthritis, including those considering, preparing for, or recovering from joint replacement. Individualized assessment, practical education, and exercises tailored to you.

About this program

painUpdated

Alberta residents · Accepting patients

For people living with persistent or chronic pain. The program helps you better understand pain, safely build movement and physical activity, and improve function and self-management.

About this program

Start with a conversation

New patients start with a free 15-minute program-information call. We explain how the service works, what it includes, and whether it suits your situation, and you can ask anything you like. There is no obligation.

arthritisUpdated interest form painUpdated interest form

Or email lisa@myhealthupdated.com · Common questions about virtual physiotherapy