Preparing for your pain management appointment helps ensure you get the most out of your visit. A little preparation beforehand means less time dealing with paperwork and more time focusing on your care.
This checklist covers everything you need to gather before your appointment at Integrative Sports and Spine.
Insurance and Identification
Bring your current insurance card and photo ID. If you have secondary insurance or Medicare supplement plans, bring those cards as well.
If your insurance requires a referral, bring that documentation. Check with your insurance company beforehand if you're unsure.
Medical Records
Bring any relevant medical records from other doctors, especially imaging reports. X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans on disc are particularly valuable. This saves time and provides important information about your condition.
Medication List
Write down all medications you currently take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Include dosage and frequency.
Bring medication bottles if it's easier than writing everything down. Don't forget to list any medications you've tried in the past for pain.
Allergy Information
Document any drug allergies or adverse reactions. Include what happened when you took the medication. Mention reactions to local anesthetics, contrast dye, or latex specifically.
1. Your Pain Story
Be ready to discuss when your pain started and what might have triggered it. Think about how you'd describe your pain: sharp, dull, burning, aching, or tingling.
Consider your pain intensity on a scale of zero to ten. What number represents your typical pain? Your pain at its worst?
Note when your pain is worse or better. Is it worse in the morning? Does it increase with certain activities? What provides relief?
2. How Pain Affects You
Think about specific ways pain limits your daily life. What activities are difficult or impossible? How does it impact work, sleep, exercise, or time with family?
Be specific about functional limitations. Can you climb stairs, walk certain distances, or sit through activities you enjoy?
3. Previous Treatments
List treatments you've already tried: physical therapy, chiropractic care, injections, medications, or other approaches. Note whether each helped, didn't help, or made things worse.
Document any previous surgeries or procedures related to your pain, including approximate dates.
4. Health Background
Be ready to discuss other medical conditions you have. Mention if you take blood thinners or have bleeding disorders, as this affects treatment options.
List previous surgeries, even those unrelated to your current pain.
Your Goals
Think about what you hope to achieve with treatment. Reducing pain? Improving function? Getting back to specific activities? Sleeping better?
Understanding your goals helps develop a treatment plan aligned with what matters most to you.
Write down questions you want to ask during your appointment. Having a written list ensures you don't forget important concerns.
Consider bringing a family member or friend who can help remember information and provide support.
Timing and Arrival
Arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in and paperwork.
What to Wear
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may need a physical examination, so clothing that's easy to adjust is helpful.
Transportation
If you're having a procedure, confirm whether you'll need someone to drive you home.
Medications and Food
Take your regular medications unless told otherwise. Eat normally unless given specific instructions.
You'll complete medical history forms, discuss your pain in detail with your specialist, and likely have a physical examination.
Your specialist will explain findings and recommend treatment options. Make sure you understand the treatment plan and next steps before leaving.
Don't hesitate to ask questions or express concerns about suggested treatments.
Keep all paperwork and instructions provided. Schedule any recommended procedures or therapy sessions promptly.
Track your progress and stay in communication with the office if you have questions or concerns between appointments.
When scheduling, ask practical questions:
Being prepared helps you and your pain specialist make the most of your appointment time. The more information you provide, the better equipped we are to help you find relief.
At Integrative Sports and Spine, we're committed to providing thorough, personalized care. Use this checklist to prepare for your visit, and contact our office if you have questions beforehand.
We look forward to helping you toward improved comfort and function.