Jeffrey Moore, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon

Preparing for a consultation with a spine specialist can feel a bit like preparing for a significant journey. The more you plan and pack, the smoother the trip is likely to be. This article will guide you through what to consider before your appointment with Dr. Jeffrey A. Moore, an orthopedic spine surgeon in Oklahoma City. Bringing the right information and questions can help you get the most out of your visit, whether you’re seeking conservative care or exploring surgical options for conditions affecting your cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine.

Before you even step into the office, it’s helpful to be an expert on your own experience. Think of yourself as a detective, gathering clues about what’s been happening with your body.

Documenting Your Pain and Discomfort

Your pain is unique to you, and no one else can describe it as accurately. Take some time to reflect on its characteristics.

• When did it start? Was there a specific injury or event, or did it come on gradually?
• What does it feel like? Is it sharp, dull, aching, burning, tingling, or shooting? Does it feel like an electric shock?
• Where is the pain located? Does it stay in one spot, or does it spread to your arms, legs, hands, or feet? This is often called radicular pain or radiculopathy when it travels down a nerve path.
• How severe is it? Use a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 is no pain and 10 is the worst pain imaginable. Be prepared to describe your pain levels during different activities and at rest.
• What makes it better or worse? Does sitting, standing, walking, lying down, or certain movements change your pain?
• Does it interfere with your daily life? How does it affect your sleep, work, hobbies, or ability to perform simple tasks like bathing or dressing?

Listing Past Treatments and Medications

Provide a comprehensive list of all treatments you’ve tried for your spine condition, both prescribed and over-the-counter.

• Medications: Include all prescription drugs, over-the-counter pain relievers, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking or have taken for this issue. Be sure to note the dosage and how long you took them.
• Physical Therapy/Chiropractic Care: If you’ve undergone physical therapy or chiropractic treatments, bring details about the duration, types of exercises, and whether you experienced any relief.
• Injections: Did you receive any steroid injections, nerve blocks, or other types of injections? When were they, and did they provide temporary or lasting relief?
• Alternative Therapies: Have you tried acupuncture, massage, yoga, or other alternative treatments? What was the outcome?
• Past Surgeries: Even if unrelated to your spine, it’s important to provide a full surgical history. If you’ve had prior spine surgery, detailed information is crucial.

Compiling Your Medical History and Family History

Your general health and family history can offer valuable insights.

• Other Medical Conditions: List any other medical conditions you have, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or autoimmune disorders. These can sometimes influence treatment decisions.
• Allergies: Disclose all known allergies to medications, foods, latex, or environmental factors.
• Smoking/Alcohol/Drug Use: Be honest about your smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and any recreational drug use. These can impact healing and surgical outcomes.
• Family History: Mention if any close family members (parents, siblings) have similar spine conditions, osteoporosis, or other relevant health issues.

When preparing for a spine consultation, it’s essential to not only gather your questions but also to understand the broader context of spine health and its impact on various lifestyles, including those of professional athletes. For an insightful perspective on how spine care relates to high-performance individuals, you can read the article about the physicians who provide care for the 10 highest-paid NBA players. This article highlights the importance of specialized spine care in maintaining peak physical condition, which can be particularly relevant for your own health journey. You can find the article here: Meet the Physicians Who Provide Care for the 10 Highest-Paid NBA Players.

Gathering Relevant Imaging and Reports

Your previous medical images are like a roadmap for your spine specialist, showing the physical landscape of your condition.

X-rays, MRIs, and CT Scans

If you’ve had imaging studies performed elsewhere, it’s critical to bring them with you. Do not assume they will be automatically sent to Dr. Moore’s office.

• Official Reports: Always bring the written reports from radiologists for all X-rays, MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and CT (Computed Tomography) scans. These reports provide a detailed description of the findings.
• Image Discs: If available, bring the actual image discs (CDs) containing your scans. Digital images often provide more detail than simply looking at a printed report. Dr. Moore’s office is equipped to review these images directly.
• Dates of Imaging: Note the dates when these studies were performed. This helps track the progression of your condition.

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

These tests provide information about nerve and muscle function.

• Reports: Bring the official reports from any EMG or NCS tests you’ve had. These can confirm nerve damage or compression, which is vital for diagnosis.

Blood Test Results

While less common for primary spine complaints, certain blood tests can be relevant.

• Inflammatory Markers: If you’ve had blood tests checking for inflammatory conditions (e.g., C-reactive protein, ESR), bring those results.
• Vitamin D Levels: Low Vitamin D can sometimes be a factor in bone health and pain.

Preparing a List of Specific Questions

This is your opportunity to gain clarity and feel informed. Writing down your questions beforehand ensures you don’t forget anything important during the consultation.

Diagnostic Questions

These questions aim to understand your specific condition.

• What is causing my pain/symptoms? This is often the most fundamental question.
• What is the diagnosis? (e.g., herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis)
• Can you explain what this diagnosis means in plain English?
• What specific findings on my MRI/X-ray correlate with my symptoms?
• Are there any other conditions that could be causing my symptoms?
• How serious is my condition, and is it likely to get worse over time?

Treatment Questions (Conservative Care)

Many spine conditions can be effectively managed without surgery, through what is known as conservative care.

• What non-surgical treatment options are available for my condition? This might include physical therapy, medication, injections, or lifestyle modifications.
• What are the pros and cons of each non-surgical option?
• How long should I expect to pursue conservative care before considering other options?
• What physical activities should I avoid or modify?
• Are there exercises I can do at home to help my condition?
• What is the expected success rate of these conservative treatments for someone with my condition?

Surgical Treatment Questions

If conservative treatments haven’t provided sufficient relief, or if your condition warrants it, surgical options might be discussed. Dr. Moore is experienced in a range of advanced techniques, including cervical, thoracic, and lumbar care, minimally invasive approaches including ProneTransPsoas (PTP), ultrasonic decompressions, fusion, disc replacement, scoliosis correction, and trauma follow-up.

• Is surgery necessary for my condition? If so, why?
• What specific surgical procedure are you recommending? (e.g., discectomy, laminectomy, fusion, disc replacement, scoliosis correction, PTP lumbar fusion)
• Can you explain the procedure in detail, including what it aims to achieve?
• What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery? (e.g., infection, bleeding, nerve damage, failure of fusion, need for revision surgery)
• What are the expected benefits and success rate of the surgery?
• What is the recovery timeline like after surgery? (e.g., hospital stay, return to work, return to activities)
• Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after surgery?
• What type of anesthesia will be used?
• What are the differences between traditional open surgery and minimally invasive options for my condition? (e.g., ProneTransPsoas for lumbar issues, ultrasonic decompressions)
• What is the experience level of the surgical team with this particular procedure?
• How often do you perform this type of surgery?
• What are the alternatives to surgery, and what are their outcomes compared to surgery for my specific condition?
• If you recommend fusion, what type of fusion is it, and what are its pros and cons for me?
• If disc replacement is an option, how does it compare to fusion?

Impact on Lifestyle & Future

Consider how your life might change, both with and without intervention.

• How will this condition or its treatment affect my long-term quality of life?
• Will I be able to return to all my previous activities, hobbies, or sports?
• What are the chances of recurrence or future problems with my spine?
• What precautionary measures can I take to protect my spine moving forward?

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Beyond your list of questions and medical records, there are a few practical items to remember.

Practical Items

These ensure a smooth experience during your visit.

• Insurance Card(s): Have your current insurance information readily available.
• Photo ID: A valid government-issued ID is typically required.
• Referral (if required): If your insurance plan requires a referral from your primary care physician, ensure you have it.
• A friend or family member: Sometimes, having an extra set of ears can be incredibly helpful. They can take notes, ask follow-up questions, and help you remember what was discussed.
• A notebook and pen: For jotting down notes during the consultation. You can write down answers to your questions, key takeaways, and next steps.
• Comfortable clothing: You may be asked to change into a gown for examination.

Preparing for a spine consultation can be a crucial step in managing your back health, and having the right questions ready can make a significant difference in your experience. To further enhance your understanding of what to expect during this process, you might find it helpful to read about the important indicators of quality care in spine practices. For more insights, check out this informative article on green flags in practices, which can guide you in identifying the best healthcare options for your needs.

Safety Red-Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Category	Questions to Bring	Purpose
Symptoms	What symptoms should I monitor and report?	Helps identify the severity and progression of the condition
Diagnosis	What is the likely diagnosis based on my symptoms and tests?	Clarifies the medical condition affecting the spine
Treatment Options	What treatment options are available and which do you recommend?	Explores possible interventions and their benefits/risks
Medications	Are there medications I should take or avoid?	Ensures safe and effective medication management
Imaging and Tests	Do I need any imaging or diagnostic tests?	Determines if further evaluation is necessary
Activity and Lifestyle	What activities should I avoid or modify?	Guides lifestyle changes to support recovery
Prognosis	What is the expected outcome with and without treatment?	Sets realistic expectations for recovery
Follow-up	When should I schedule a follow-up appointment?	Ensures ongoing monitoring and care
Referrals	Do I need to see any specialists or therapists?	Coordinates comprehensive care if needed

While preparing for your consultation, it’s also crucial to distinguish between chronic spine pain symptoms and those that require urgent attention. These “red flags” signal a potentially more serious issue.

• Sudden onset of severe weakness or numbness.
• Loss of bowel or bladder control (incontinence). This is a critical sign of a condition called cauda equina syndrome.
• Fever alongside back pain, especially if accompanied by chills or night sweats. This could indicate an infection.
• Unexplained weight loss with back pain.
• Back pain that is constant, progressive, and not relieved by rest, especially at night.
• Trauma: If your back pain occurred after a significant fall or accident, especially in an older individual or someone with osteoporosis.

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait for your scheduled appointment; seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room or urgent care facility.

FAQ: Common Concerns Before a Spine Consultation

1. Should I still attend my appointment if my pain has temporarily improved?

Yes, it’s important to still attend. Your symptoms can fluctuate, and the specialist needs to understand the full history of your condition, including periods of improvement and worsening.

2. Can I get a second opinion with Dr. Moore?

Absolutely. Dr. Moore specializes in providing second opinions, and a fresh perspective can be invaluable in complex spine cases. You can even submit your MRI for a free review.

3. How long will the consultation take?

Initial consultations can vary, but generally, plan for at least 30-60 minutes to allow for a thorough discussion, physical examination, and review of your imaging.

4. What if I don’t understand the medical terms during my visit?

Do not hesitate to ask for clarification. Dr. Moore and his team are committed to explaining your condition and treatment options in plain English so you can make informed decisions. Think of it as translating from a technical language to everyday understanding.

5. Will I get an MRI or X-ray on the same day?

If you haven’t had recent imaging or if the existing imaging is insufficient, the doctor may order new studies. However, these are typically scheduled for a separate appointment rather than performed on the same day as your initial consultation.

Preparing thoroughly for your spine consultation is a vital step in your journey toward understanding and managing your spine health. By bringing a detailed account of your symptoms, medical history, relevant imaging, and a thoughtful list of questions, you empower yourself to be an active participant in your care. Dr. Jeffrey A. Moore and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate, confident, and clear care for residents across the OKC metro, including Norman, Edmond, and Yukon.

Ready to take the next step towards better spine health? Call us at (405) 645-5475 to schedule your appointment, or book online through JeffreyMooreSpine.com. We also offer a FREE MRI review/2nd opinion for those seeking additional insights. We look forward to helping you navigate your options.

CALL (405) 645-5475

FAQs

What should I bring to a spine consultation?

You should bring any relevant medical records, imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans), a list of current medications, and a detailed history of your symptoms. It’s also helpful to bring a list of questions or concerns you want to discuss with the spine specialist.

How can I prepare questions for my spine consultation?

Before your appointment, write down any symptoms you are experiencing, how long you have had them, and any treatments you have tried. Think about what you want to know regarding diagnosis, treatment options, risks, recovery time, and expected outcomes. Preparing a list of questions ensures you cover all important topics during the consultation.

Why is it important to discuss my medical history during a spine consultation?

Your medical history provides the spine specialist with context about your overall health, previous injuries, surgeries, or conditions that may affect your spine. This information helps in making an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.

Should I bring someone with me to the spine consultation?

Bringing a family member or friend can be helpful for support and to assist in remembering the information discussed. They can also help ask questions you might forget and provide emotional support during the consultation.

What types of questions should I ask my spine specialist?

You should ask about the cause of your symptoms, possible diagnoses, recommended tests, treatment options (including non-surgical and surgical), potential risks and benefits, recovery expectations, and any lifestyle changes that may help your condition.

How early should I arrive for my spine consultation?

It is recommended to arrive at least 15-30 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and to ensure the appointment starts on time.

Can I discuss alternative treatments during my spine consultation?

Yes, it is important to discuss all treatment options, including alternative or complementary therapies, with your spine specialist to understand their effectiveness and safety in your specific case.

What if I don’t understand the medical terms used during the consultation?

Don’t hesitate to ask the specialist to explain any terms or concepts you find confusing. Clear communication is essential for making informed decisions about your care.

Is it necessary to follow up after the initial spine consultation?

Follow-up appointments are often necessary to monitor your progress, review test results, and adjust treatment plans as needed. Your specialist will advise you on the appropriate schedule for follow-up visits.