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?
- What exercises and daily activities have you been able to do? Do you need assistance?
- How often are you using your home exercise program? Are you always able to complete it?
- How often are you using your walker, crutches or cane?
- How much does your hip pain interfere with your daily activities? Sometimes, frequently, or all the time?
- Does your hip pain interfere with your sleep?
- Does your hip pain worsen with walking? Does it get better with rest?
- Do you have hip stiffness that limits your ability to move or lift your leg?
- Does anything make your hip pain better, including medicines or physical therapy?
- How would you rate your quality of life due to hip pain? Good, fair or poor?
- How well is your medication controlling your symptoms? Do you feel it is effective?
- What is your main concern about a hip replacement?
- What new symptoms are you experiencing?
- How do you know if hip replacement surgery will be successful for me?
- What are my hip replacement options? Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
- What are the risks and possible complications of the hip replacement surgery you are recommending? What can be done to prevent them?
- How long will I be in the hospital after hip replacement surgery? How long does full recovery usually take?
- How long do hip implants typically last?
- 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 flexibility in my new hip?
- How long should I use my pain medicine? How can I avoid getting addicted to my pain medicine?
- How can I protect my new hip 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 hip replacement?
- What type of hip replacement is best for me? Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
- What symptoms could mean there is problem with my new hip? When should I call you?
