How long does an initial physical and rehabilitation medicine consultation take, and how much does it cost? Everything you need to know before booking an appointment.

How long does an initial physical rehabilitation consultation take and how much does it cost? Everything you need to know before you book

Do you have back pain that keeps coming back? Are you recovering after orthopedic surgery? Or perhaps your child has a posture problem and you want a correct assessment? Whatever the situation, the first step is the initial physical rehabilitation consultation.

This assessment provides a clear diagnosis, establishes the real cause of the symptoms, and lays the foundations of a personalized plan. At the same time, it helps you understand how long the recovery will take and what costs it involves. Below you will find practical information about the duration of the consultation, prices, what the assessment includes, and how you can prepare.

What does an initial physical rehabilitation consultation mean?

The initial consultation is a complete medical assessment carried out by a doctor specialized in medical recovery. The specialist analyzes how the joints, the muscles, and the neuromotor system function, establishes a diagnosis, and proposes a treatment plan adapted to your needs.

This assessment differs from a simple physiotherapy session. During the consultation, the doctor:

• discusses the detailed medical history;
• analyzes the imaging investigations (MRI, X-rays, ultrasounds);
• performs functional and orthopedic tests;
• establishes clear recovery objectives.

Physical and rehabilitation medicine focuses on improving function and mobility in patients with musculoskeletal, neurological, or post-traumatic conditions. The emphasis is on regaining the capacity for movement and preventing recurrences, not just on the temporary reduction of pain.

In the case of an active adult who spends many hours at the office and complains of low back pain, the doctor will assess posture, spinal mobility, and muscle imbalances. In the case of an amateur athlete facing knee pain, the specialist will analyze joint stability, strength, and any technique errors. A correct assessment means a well-directed plan. Without this stage, the recovery risks being incomplete or ineffective.

How long does an initial physical rehabilitation consultation take?

In most cases, the consultation takes between 30 and 45 minutes. This interval allows the doctor to talk with you, perform the physical examination, and establish the treatment plan. For complex cases, the duration can reach 50–60 minutes. For example:

• patients with multiple conditions (spine and knee);
• athletes with a history of repeated injuries;
• people recovering after major surgeries;
• children with suspected alignment or growth disorders.

The duration depends on:

• the complexity of the symptoms;
• the number of affected areas;
• the existence of imaging investigations;
• the presence of other associated conditions.

Allow approximately one hour for the entire visit, including the administrative formalities. The time invested in the first consultation contributes to establishing a coherent and effective plan.

How much does an initial physical rehabilitation consultation cost at Centrokinetic?

At Centrokinetic, you have access to up-to-date prices on the official pricing page. If the doctor recommends combining it with musculoskeletal ultrasound, the cost increases. Ultrasound allows the real-time assessment of the tendons, ligaments, and soft structures. The price of the consultation includes:

• the detailed anamnesis;
• physical and functional examination;
• the interpretation of the investigations brought;
• establishing the diagnosis;
• a personalized treatment plan.

Not included are:

• the physiotherapy sessions;
• the physiotherapy procedures;
• the infiltrations or other interventional procedures;
• the additional imaging investigations.

What happens during the consultation?

The consultation begins with the discussion about the symptoms. The doctor will ask you:

• When did the pain appear?
• What aggravates or relieves it?
• What treatments have you followed so far?
• How does it affect your daily or sports activity?

Then the physical examination follows. The doctor assesses:

• posture and body alignment;
• the range of joint movements;
• muscle strength;
• the stability of the joints;
• gait and coordination.

If you have brought an MRI or X-rays, the doctor interprets them in the clinical context. The isolated image is not enough; the symptoms and functional tests complete the picture.

At the end, you receive a clear plan. This may include physiotherapy sessions, physical therapy, or other procedures. The final discussion gives you an estimate regarding the duration of the recovery and the frequency of the sessions. You can ask questions and clarify any uncertainty.

Summary of the rehabilitation assessment

What treatments can follow after the consultation?

The treatment plan differs from patient to patient. The doctor adapts the recommendations depending on the diagnosis, age, level of activity, and objectives.

In usual practice, the scheme may include:

• individual physiotherapy;
• physical therapy procedures (laser, electrotherapy, TECAR);
• manual therapy;
• recommendations for exercises to perform at home.

Combining therapeutic exercises with physical procedures increases the effectiveness of the recovery and reduces the risk of recurrence.

What conditions does physical rehabilitation treat?

Medical recovery covers a wide range of conditions.

Spinal conditions

Back pain is among the most frequent reasons for presenting to a doctor.

Degenerative joint conditions

Osteoarthritis of the knee or hip affects mobility and quality of life. Musculoskeletal conditions represent one of the main causes of disability globally. Early intervention reduces the loss of function and maintains autonomy.

Post-operative recovery

• hip or knee prosthesis;
• cruciate ligament reconstruction;
• shoulder interventions;
• spinal surgery.

Sports injuries

• sprains;
• muscle tears;
• meniscus injuries;
• joint instabilities.

Pediatric orthopedics

• posture disorders;
• limb deviations;
• growth conditions.

Regardless of age, the approach is personalized and adapted to your objectives.

How do you prepare for the consultation?

Correct preparation helps the doctor establish the diagnosis quickly.

Bring with you:

• recent imaging investigations;
• relevant test results;
• previous medical letters;
• the list of medications administered.

Wear comfortable clothes that allow the examination of the affected area.

Write down:

• the date the symptoms appeared;
• their evolution;
• activities limited by pain;
• treatments tried.

Open communication between patient and doctor improves the results of the recovery. Avoid self-diagnosis and do not interrupt treatments without medical recommendation.

Why is early intervention important?

Persistent pain modifies the movement patterns and can lead to compensations. Over time, these adaptations increase the risk of overloading other structures. Studies show that early intervention in musculoskeletal conditions improves the functional prognosis and shortens the duration of the recovery.

The benefits of presenting to a doctor quickly:

• precise diagnosis;
• preventing chronicity;
• reducing the total recovery time;
• maintaining mobility and sports performance.

Do not wait until the pain completely limits your activity. Schedule the assessment at the first persistent signs.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a medical referral?

For a private consultation you do not need a referral. You can book directly. For services reimbursed through CAS, a referral note is necessary, within the limit of the available funds.

How long does complete recovery take?

The duration varies depending on the diagnosis. Mild low back pain may respond within a few weeks. Post-operative recovery may take a few months. The doctor gives you an estimate after the assessment and adjusts the plan along the way.

Can I do sports during recovery?

It depends on the condition. In many situations, the doctor allows adapted physical activity. Follow the recommendations received and avoid overloading until an adequate functional stability is achieved.

An initial physical rehabilitation consultation gives you clear direction and a plan adapted to your needs. Act in time, rely on a correct medical assessment, and follow the specialized recommendations. Schedule now at Centrokinetic for a specialist consultation!

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is purely informative and does not replace specialist medical consultation. Each case is unique, and the diagnosis and treatment plan can be established only by a doctor following a direct clinical assessment. If you are dealing with acute pain or symptoms that are worsening, we recommend that you seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

Sources of information:

• Wagner, Amy K., et al. "Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Consultation." American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, vol. 82, no. 7, July 2003, pp. 526–536, 10.1097/01.phm.0000073825.09942.8f. Accessed on 29 Apr. 2026.
• "Rehabilitation." Who.Int, World Health Organization: WHO, 22 Apr. 2024. Accessed on 29 Apr. 2026.