For Patients

What to Expect: Initial Orthopedic Evaluation

In order to make your first visit as efficient as possible please arrive 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This will provide sufficient time for you to register and complete any necessary forms.

What to Bring

Please bring the following items to your appointment:

  • Insurance card
  • Photo ID (i.e. driver's license)
  • Referral form from your primary care physician
  • Relevant x-rays, MRIs, CTs, etc. regarding the injury for which you are being seen. Whenever possible the actual films themselves rather than just the report should be brought to the office visit.
  • Medication lists (including supplements and over the counter medicines that you take on a regular basis)
  • Copies of all reports from any prior study or medical treatment rendered regarding the injury for which you are being seen
  • Co-pay

What to Wear

In order for the physician to adequately assess your injury, the affected area must be exposed.

  • If you are being seen for a shoulder problem, please wear or bring a tank top.
  • If you are being seen for an elbow problem, please wear or bring a short-sleeved shirt or tank top.
  • If you are being seen for a knee or ankle problem, please wear or bring a pair of shorts, or pants that can easily be pulled above the knee level.
  • Women having an upper extremity injury should wear a sports bra or tank top without underwires to not interfere with X-rays.
     

What to Expect

Your physician will review the history of your condition, your symptoms, any treatment you have had thus far, and the effect of your condition on your quality of life. In addition, your physician will review your medical history, family history, any previous operations you have had, and any current medications you take.

Your physician will then perform a physical examination of the affected body area. If necessary, new x-rays will be obtained in our office during your visit. If you have brought outside x-rays or other imaging studies, these will also be reviewed.

Based on your history, clinical examination, and imaging studies, your physician will form an assessment of your diagnosis and a therapeutic plan.

If you have not responded to other medical care or if you have an acute injury, your surgeon may determine that surgery is the best option for your problem. Our office will schedule your appointments as soon as possible to speed your treatment and recovery.