A visit to an orthopedic clinic can be intimidating — it’s never pleasant to find out that you have a condition. However, one of the best ways to get over fear is to come prepared! While self-diagnosis isn’t advisable, the best way to prepare for a doctor’s visit is to know what questions you’ll need to ask. Read on to find out some of the most common questions that patients ask their orthopedic doctors.
Questions About Treatment
Is My Condition Something You Can Treat?
An orthopedic clinic’s services are one of the first things you should find out about. A clinic might not have the personnel or equipment to treat your condition. An orthopedic clinic can generally treat almost any orthopedic health concern, but specific injuries or diseases might require specialized equipment.
How Will I Be Diagnosed?
This question is typically for your doctor. Orthopedic diagnoses usually involve imaging tests. Some of the more common imaging tests are:
- X-Rays
- Ultrasound
- MRI
These diagnostic tests help your doctor identify the nature and cause of your orthopedic issue. Undergoing diagnostics tests will ensure that your diagnosis and subsequent suggested treatment will be appropriate.
Diagnostic tests are usually pain-free and non-invasive, so you shouldn’t worry. Your doctor can describe the process of a diagnostic test beforehand, so you can enter prepared. Most orthopedic clinics have diagnostic facilities on-site, but some may need you to visit a specialized diagnostic clinic.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Your orthopedic clinic should be able to provide multiple treatment options for your condition. These will likely range from conservative, non-invasive treatments to surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.
Hip arthritis, for example, might only require physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medicines. However, more severe cases might require surgery or joint replacement.
How Long Will The Treatment Take?
You have things to do, so it’s best to know how long you’ll need to dedicate to treatment. Your doctor can provide a general timeline for how long you’ll need based on the specificities of your condition and the suggested treatment. Some conditions only need a few hours in an orthopedic clinic — you’ll go in for diagnosis, treatment, and be back to living your life right after. More severe cases might need a hospital stay.
However, always keep in mind that you will typically be under observation for some time. Your doctor’s timeline will be a well-educated projection. Complications may arise, especially if you aren’t able to follow your treatment plan precisely. If something unexpected happens, your treatment may take longer.
Is There A Long Recovery Period?
Rest and recovery are just as critical as the actual treatment procedure. Even if your treatment is complete, you might not be able to return to regular activities just yet. For example, you may need to refrain from driving if you’ve had a recent knee replacement.
What Should I Watch Out For During Treatment?
It always helps to be prepared. Some treatment options might need specialized care, or you might need to avoid certain activities. There’s also the possibility that the treatment you received may have risk of complications. Some complications are mild, but others could be life-threatening if you don’t address them immediately.
Your doctor can inform you of anything you’ll need to know regarding your treatment. If you see any warning signs, you should return to your orthopedic clinic as soon as possible.
Financing
How Much Do You Charge?
Medical care is something you need to plan, so it’s best to organize your finances soon. Knowing the cost of treatment will ensure that you know how to prioritize your spending.
Are You Covered By My Insurance?
Insurance helps ease the financial burden of treatment. Always ensure that your insurance covers your chosen orthopedic clinic. That way, you won’t break the bank when getting treatment. A physical injury shouldn’t have to hurt your wallet, too.
Orthopedic Clinic in San Antonio, TX
There’s nothing to fear from going to an orthopedic clinic. However, if you do have worries, it helps to be prepared before coming. By knowing what questions to ask, you can address any concerns you might have. On top of making you more comfortable, asking questions will help both you and your doctor devise a treatment plan better suited to your needs. The more information you exchange with your doctor, the more they’ll have to work with.
If you need an orthopedic clinic in San Antonio, TX, we’re here to serve you. At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, we have highly-trained and experienced orthopedists on hand to help you with any of your health concerns. Don’t let an injury or orthopedic condition get in the way of your life.
If you’d like to know more, you can call us at (210) 692-7400, or you can visit our website and chat with our live online assistants! We’re ready to help you. If you’d like to set up an appointment, you can also use our online request form.
