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Old 07-13-2012, 12:52 AM
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Dr. Smith Dr. Smith is offline
Senior Member (**Dr Smith is named after a character from Lost in Space, not a medical doctor)
Dr. Smith's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Lost in Space
Posts: 3,515
10 yr Member
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Hi Judy, Welcome.

If you have one bone spur (a.k.a. osteophytes) chances are you have many. Most people do -- they're a part of the aging process -- but most don't cause problems; obviously, some do.

If you have a pain journal, bring that. If not, you may want to start one, with information to help the doctor help you. Google: pain journal for some samples/templates or create/modify your own.

If you have had any imaging done, bring it with you, or have it sent ahead by whoever has it, along with any other pertinent records/testing. The ortho may request more. S/he'll look at your records/imaging, examine you, evaluate, and may offer some options, beginning with physical therapy. If you've BT--DT, try it again. All physical therapists are not created equal; some have more knowledge/experience in different areas (two that I saw struck out; the third did me some good). It has been suggested that surgery, in many cases, produces no better results than physical therapy. Google: physical therapy vs surgery

The orthopedist may also try steroid injections to reduce any inflammation. IME, these either work fairly quickly (within a few days, though the first couple may actually be worse) or not at all. They may also refer you to Pain Management or to a surgeon. Surgery should only be considered as an absolute last resort after all other therapies have been tried & failed, and still only after multiple opinions. Hopefully, things won't come to that, but if it's suggested, come back here to the Spinal Disorders & Back Pain Forum.

There are some articles on what to expect on your first visit; most seem to be written by orthopedic practices, but by perusing a few, you should be able to get a pretty good idea.
Google: first visit orthopedist

Doc
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Dr. Zachary Smith
Oh, the pain... THE PAIN...

Dr. Smith is NOT a medical doctor. He was a character from LOST IN SPACE.
All opinions expressed are my own. For medical advice/opinion, consult your doctor.
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"Thanks for this!" says:
finz (07-14-2012)