First Consultation

The most useful preparation for an orthopaedic consultation is a clear account of the problem and what you hope to improve. You do not need to arrive with a diagnosis. Bring your questions, relevant records and an honest description of how symptoms affect ordinary life. Use the visit to understand the proposed next step and the reason for it.

Before arranging the visit

Check the clinic location, appointment arrangements and any accessibility help you need. Ask what records are required and whether there are instructions specific to your visit. Wear clothing that allows the affected area to be examined comfortably. AAOS recommends preparing records and questions in advance. AAOS visit preparation

If someone is travelling with you, agree what help you want from them. They might take notes, explain a concern you find difficult to describe or help with transport. You should still have the opportunity to speak for yourself. Tell the clinic in advance if you need language assistance or have difficulty hearing, reading or moving around.

Prepare a short symptom story

Write down when the problem began and whether there was an injury. Describe the location, any swelling, stiffness, locking, giving way, numbness or weakness, and what happens during a typical day. Explain what makes the problem better or worse rather than trying to choose a medical term.

Choose two examples that show its effect: you may stop halfway through a walk, wake when turning in bed or need help dressing. Include what you can still do. Tell the clinician about previous treatment, the amount you actually tried and any side effects. A useful note is specific enough to discuss without becoming a detailed diary of every sensation.

Bring the records that tell the story

Bring relevant X-rays or other images as well as their written reports, earlier operation records where available, and current prescriptions. Include allergies and past reactions, other medical conditions, over-the-counter products and supplements. These details help a clinician evaluate treatment choices safely. AAOS medical-history checklist

Put the most recent documents first and identify anything you no longer take. If a record is missing, explain that rather than postponing all discussion while searching for it. Do not send detailed medical records through an appointment message unless the clinic has specifically explained an appropriate method and why they are needed.

During the discussion

Ask the clinician to explain the working diagnosis, what remains uncertain and whether further investigation is needed. For a suggested test, ask how the result could change treatment. For each reasonable option, ask about the likely benefit, important risks, practical demands and what happens if you defer it.

Share your priorities. You may value avoiding time away from work, sleeping better or returning to a particular activity. Say if the recommended plan is difficult because of cost, transport, caregiving or another health problem. It is better to adapt a plan together than leave with instructions you cannot follow.

Leave with a clear next step

Before leaving, explain the plan back in your own words. Confirm any medication instructions, activity limits, investigation arrangements and the follow-up date. Ask who will explain test results and which symptom changes should prompt earlier contact. Request written information when medical terms are unfamiliar. AAOS questions and follow-up

At home, keep the current instructions together and note questions that remain. Contact the team for clarification rather than guessing at a dose or an exercise. If you seek another opinion, bring the same records and describe the advice already received.

When a routine appointment is not enough

This preparation guide is for a planned visit. Do not delay emergency assessment to obtain a clinic appointment, finish paperwork or send a WhatsApp message. If symptoms are sudden, severe or rapidly changing, read the urgent-care guide and seek appropriate in-person help. An online request cannot provide an examination or confirm that waiting is safe.