What to know
During your initial appointment, your provider will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and ask questions to better understand your pain. Remember, this appointment is about you- your concerns, your goals, and the relief you’re seeking. Feel free to bring a list of questions or notes about your symptoms.
In many cases, your first visit may also include a physical examination, which can sometimes feel uncomfortable, especially if you’re dealing with chronic pain. This step is important, as it helps your provider accurately assess your condition and determine the best treatment plan for you.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To help us provide the most efficient and thorough care, please bring the following items with you:
- Medication Bottles or List – Include all current medications and supplements.
- Photo ID & Insurance Card – Along with any required co-pay at check-in.
- Prior Imaging – Reports and CDs of any X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans related to your condition.
- Medical History Notes – Summaries or documents detailing your pain history or prior treatments.
- Questions & Goals – A short list of what you’d like to discuss or accomplish during your visit.
Appointment Types
At Alleviate Pain & Spine, your care is tailored to your unique needs.
We offer a variety of appointment types to meet you where you are in your journey:
- New Patient Evaluation – A comprehensive assessment of your pain, medical history, and goals.
- Follow-Up Visit – Review of your progress and next steps in your treatment plan.
- Telehealth Visit – Secure virtual appointments for convenient follow-up care.
- Procedure Appointment – For injections, minimally invasive treatments, or implant procedures.
How to Prepare
- Bring Relevant Documents: Medication list, imaging, and any recent medical records.
- Arrive on Time: Please check your itinerary for your arrival time to complete check-in and paperwork.
- Ask Questions: Jot down anything you’d like to discuss with your physician or care team.
- Understand Next Steps: Before leaving, confirm your plan for follow-up visits, procedures, or prescriptions.
5 Questions to Ask at Your Appointment
Open communication helps you get the most from your visit.
Consider asking your provider these important questions:
- What is the likely cause of my pain?
- What treatment options are available for my condition?
- What are the potential benefits and risks of each option?
- How do we decide when it’s time to move beyond medication or injections?
- How do you monitor progress and determine if a new approach might be appropriate down the road?
