Visiting an Orthopedic Clinic for the First Time: What to Expect

Whatever your reason for going to see an orthopedic doctor – whether it be a musculoskeletal injury, joint pain, or strengthening for a sport – you’ll do best to be prepared, so you won’t get any major surprises.

Let’s talk about some of the key things you should know before your visit to the orthopedic clinic, and where you can go here in Little Rock for trustworthy medical care and efficient orthopedic treatment.

#1: Review of Your Medical History

To begin, your orthopedic physician will ask you about your symptoms and any existing medical conditions you have. The doctor may also ask about your family medical history to determine whether the issue may be an inherited condition. All of this information is important, because it can influence the treatment options that the doctor recommends to you.

Be sure to be as specific as possible when describing your pain and symptoms. Explain:

• Where exactly you feel the pain
• How the pain feels (throbbing, stabbing, etc.)
• How often it hurts
• The severity of your pain (from dull to severe)
• How much it interferes with your lifestyle

Your responses will form the baseline toward your physician’s diagnosis as well as your treatment plan.

#2: Physical Exam

Your orthopedic specialist will then conduct a physical examination to determine the current general status of your orthopedic health. This will include an assessment of your range of motion, reflexes, flexibility, and strength of the injured or painful area.

The doctor may also assess how you stand, walk, and sit down, as well as check for any bruises, lumps, or unusual painful spots. Any of these issues could signal an orthopedic disease or injury that warrants treatment.

#3: Imaging Tests (Optional)

To determine an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may order imaging tests. Some of the standard imaging techniques used for an orthopedic diagnosis are:

• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI
• Ultrasound

#4: Treatment Options

Your physician will then explain your best treatment options. Remember that your treatment is entirely your decision – your doctor’s job at this point is just to give you the best advice.

Ask the orthopedist about the expected benefits, outcomes, and possible side effects of each possible treatment option. Treatment may begin immediately if that’s what you decide.

Orthopedic Clinic in Little Rock, Arkansas

If you’re looking for a world-class orthopedic clinic here in Little Rock, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics is here for you. Our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. William Hefley, specializes in noninvasive treatments, minimally invasive surgery, and sports medicine.

Dr. Hefley has many years of experience in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions of all kinds, from arthritis to fractures, and he can give you an efficient evaluation and treatment that works for you.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hefley, contact our caring staff today by calling us at (800) 336-2412 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your orthopedic healthcare partner!