Physical therapy (PT) is a movement-based treatment method focused on restoring function, improving mobility, and managing pain. To ensure a successful and productive session, the clothing worn must be appropriate for the activities and assessments involved. Dressing correctly allows the physical therapist to accurately observe your movement patterns and access the body part requiring treatment, promoting both safety and effectiveness during your recovery.
General Principles of PT Attire
Activewear that provides unrestricted range of motion is the best choice for physical therapy. Garments should be loose-fitting or made from flexible, stretchy fabrics like spandex blends, athletic mesh, or soft cotton. Restrictive clothing, such as jeans, stiff trousers, or tight sweaters, can inhibit the full extension of limbs required for therapeutic movements.
Selecting breathable, moisture-wicking materials helps maintain comfort as your body temperature rises during activity. Synthetic blends of nylon or polyester often wick moisture away from the skin more effectively than cotton, which is beneficial during intensive exercise. Layering is also a practical consideration, as you can easily remove a light jacket or sweatshirt when exercising and put it back on during static periods, such as when applying ice or heat.
Your clothing should not obscure the area being assessed, allowing the therapist clear visualization of how your body moves. This enables the therapist to observe subtle changes in posture, joint alignment, and muscle activation patterns. This visual feedback is important for making necessary adjustments to your treatment plan and ensuring correct form.
Clothing Choices Based on Treatment Location
The specific area of the body being treated dictates clothing choice for your session. Clothing must be easily moved or adjusted to give the therapist direct access for manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization, or to attach monitoring equipment.
For lower body issues involving the hip, knee, or ankle, wearing athletic shorts is the most direct and practical option. If shorts are not preferred, loose-fitting sweatpants or yoga pants that can be easily rolled up past the knee or hip joint are sufficient.
When treating the upper body, including the shoulder, elbow, or neck, a tank top or a loose-fitting t-shirt is recommended. Women may find a sports bra or a loose-fitting athletic top beneficial, as it allows the therapist to examine scapula movement and surrounding muscles without fabric interference. High collars or hoodies should be avoided, as they obstruct the neck and upper back area.
For back, spine, or core treatments, clothing should be flexible and not excessively bulky. A form-fitting athletic top is often preferable over a baggy shirt, as it allows the therapist to better observe spinal posture and movement. The waistband of pants should be elastic or loose to accommodate bending and trunk rotation without digging into the skin.
Footwear and Items to Avoid
Supportive, closed-toe athletic shoes with non-slip soles are the standard requirement for physical therapy sessions. Sneakers or trainers provide the necessary stability, traction, and cushioning to safely perform balance work, walking, and weight-bearing exercises.
Footwear that should be avoided includes sandals, flip-flops, high heels, boots, or any shoe with a smooth or polished underside that lacks grip. These types of shoes increase the risk of slipping or falling during dynamic activities, posing a safety concern. If your therapy focuses on the foot or ankle, you may be asked to remove your shoes, but supportive athletic shoes should still be worn to the clinic.
Certain accessories and products can also interfere with treatment and should be left at home.
- Excessive or dangling jewelry can become snagged on equipment or impede manual treatment techniques.
- Heavy belts or restrictive undergarments can limit mobility and should be swapped out for lighter alternatives.
- Avoid applying heavy lotions or oils to the skin near the treatment area, as this can reduce the necessary traction for the therapist during manual soft tissue work.