Orthopedic Appointments: How to Prepare and What to Expect

At OSF HealthCare, we are committed to providing the best possible care for your orthopedic needs. Whether you're visiting for the first time or coming in for follow-up care, here's everything you need to know about your orthopedic appointment.

We provide comprehensive care for neck, back and spine conditions through OSF Orthopedics and the OSF Illinois Neurological Institute.

How to Prepare for Your Orthopedic Appointment

To make your visit as smooth and productive as possible, follow these steps to prepare:

  1. Gather Your Medical Information – Make sure to bring a list of any medical conditions, previous surgeries, and current medications, including doses. This helps your orthopedic specialist get a clear picture of your health.
  2. Wear Comfortable Clothing – Depending on the area being examined, you may need to wear loose-fitting or easily removable clothing. For example, if you're seeing the doctor for knee pain, wearing shorts or pants that can be rolled up is helpful.
  3. Make a List of Questions or Concerns – Before your appointment, write down any questions or concerns you may have about your condition or potential treatments. This ensures that you leave with all the information you need.
  4. Arrive Early – Try to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete any necessary paperwork and get settled.

What to Expect During Your Orthopedic Appointment

Your appointment will last 30-60 minutes depending on the type of evaluation, required tests and treatment provided. Appointments typically involve the following steps:

  1. Medical History and Discussion – We will start by reviewing your medical history and discussing your current symptoms. Be prepared to answer questions about when your pain or discomfort started, how it feels and how it affects your daily activities.
  2. Physical Examination – Next, we will perform a physical examination to assess the affected area. This may involve checking your range of motion, strength and any areas of tenderness or swelling.
  3. Diagnostic Tests – In some cases, we may order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs or CT scans to get a clearer view of your condition. These tests may be done at a variety of locations, including the doctor’s office, hospital or an outpatient imaging center. The location will depend on the specific circumstances of your visit.
  4. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan – Once all the necessary information has been reviewed, we will provide a diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you. This could include physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.
  5. Follow-Up Appointments – If further care is needed, such as physical therapy or orthopedic surgery, follow-up appointments will be scheduled to ensure your treatment is on track.

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