Ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment. Answer two questions below to personalize your appointment guide.
- How would you rate your pain? What number would you give it on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the worst pain ever?
- How often do you need to use your pain medicine?
- Besides pain, are there any other problems with weakness, numbness, or tingling? Any bowel or bladder issues?
- What exercises and daily activities have you been able to do? Do you need assistance?
- How often are you attending physical therapy sessions? Have you seen progress?
- How many hours per day are you wearing your back brace?
- How long have you been having back or neck pain?
- Do you have other symptoms, such as weakness, numbness or tingling in your arms or legs? Any bowel or bladder issues?
- How much is your back pain or stiffness limiting your daily activities? Sometimes, frequently, or all the time?
- How would you rate your quality of life due to your back pain? Good, fair or poor?
- How well have medicines and physical therapy helped your back pain or stiffness?
- If you are considered a good candidate, are you ready to consider spine surgery?
- How well is your medication controlling your symptoms? Do you feel it is effective?
- What is your main concern about spine surgery?
- What new symptoms are you experiencing?
- How do you know if spine surgery will be successful for me?
- What are my spine surgery options? Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
- What are the risks and possible complications of the spine surgery you are recommending? How can I help prevent them?
- How long will I be in the hospital after spine surgery?
- How long does full recovery usually take?
- How should I prepare my house before surgery to make my recovery easier? Where can I find more information or assistance with this?
- How active can I be until I see you next time? What restrictions do you recommend?
- How long will I need physical therapy?
- What exercises should I continue after physical therapy to maintain strength and stability in my back?
- What symptoms could mean there is problem with my spine? When should I call you?
- How long should I use my pain medicine? How can I avoid getting addicted to my pain medicine?
- How can I protect my back and spine after I've recovered from surgery?
- Would another medication do a better job of controlling my pain and other symptoms?
- Are my new or different symptoms related to my spine surgery?
- What type of spine surgery is best for me? Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?