The first time you see a spine specialist, it’s normal to have questions about what you should expect during your visit. Whether you just started experiencing pain for the first time or have been dealing with pain for a longer time, you deserve answers to the problems you are experiencing.
First State Spine is here to provide you with the best specialists in the field to help you manage your pain, discuss your symptoms, and make a proper diagnosis. Our goal is to devise a treatment plan to bring you the relief you have been seeking.
What Will My First Appointment with a Spine Specialist be Like?
Every spine specialist will have a plan for how they want to approach your first appointment. However, the general idea of the appointment is to get to know your new doctor and for them to get to know you. The following are some things you may expect during your first appointment:
Expect a Longer Appointment:
If you are meeting your spine specialist for the first time, you can expect to have a longer appointment the first time you meet with them for a consultation. You will spend time getting to know your doctor, and they will spend time getting to know you as well.
Discuss Your Medical History:
You will spend some time discussing your medical history with your spine management specialist. This conversation will include anything from past pain you have experienced, treatments you have had in the past, to surgeries that you may have undergone. Your doctor will come to understand what kind of pain you’re experiencing and why you are currently seeking treatment.
Get a Physical:
The doctor will probably give you a physical that includes basics such as examining your neck or back, checking your strength and testing your reflexes. A physical exam may give them more information about the pain you are experiencing and possible insight into why you are experiencing it.
Undergoing Tests:
Your doctor may order other related tests such as a CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, or injections to determine the source and reason for your pain.
Determine a Preliminary Course of Treatment:
If you are in pain when you go see the spine specialist, the spine specialist will determine a preliminary treatment plan based on the current information. You may have to modify or change your course of treatment as you get more information and learn what will better help treat the causes of the pain you are experiencing.
A Chance to Ask Questions:
Finally, before the end of your appointment, you should have an opportunity to ask questions about the course of your treatment and what to expect next. Asking these questions gives you a clear idea of the treatment plan and what will occur moving forward.
Getting to know your spine management specialist is key during your first appointment. You will know if this is someone you want to work with in the future. The more you know about your new doctor, the more you will trust them to help make decisions that are right for you.
Conclusions
Please fill out the patient form below for more information. Once you have done so, please contact us at First State Spine to schedule an appointment or schedule your appointment online through our website.
