1. THOROUGH HISTORY
Your assessment starts by filling out and submitting the intake forms sent to you upon booking. You can also email any imaging reports you might have at this time.
At the time of your consultation we'll go through a history of your back pain - when and how did it start? Have you had this before? Is there leg related pain? And a variety of other questions to get the best understanding of the nature of your back pain. We may also go into other aspects of your health, and lifestyle.
2. FOCUSSED PHYSICAL EXAM
The physical exam is next. And yes, this really can be done by video or phone. This is where we’ll talk you through various movements, positions, and tests, noting with each the resulting symptoms and signs. If something is too painful, or if you’re just not comfortable or confident in doing it, we can easily move on.
And if you've shared any imaging that was done prior to your consultation this can be a good time to review it together. Having someone put the medical terminology in context can be helpful.
3. REVIEW & RECOMMENDATIONS
Upon completing the history and physical we’ll review the information. At this point I’ll provide a diagnosis (or differential diagnosis) and discuss recommendations for next steps.
For many people all that’s needed is the reassurance that there’s nothing serious, and that they’ll get back to normal with a conservative approach and some exercises, which we can talk about. It's also likely that we'll take some time to talk about pain in general, and the variety of ways to better understand it and manage it.
In some cases there may be recommendations for imaging - Xray or MRI. And for others still, there may be the recommendation for spinal injection therapy or surgical consultation as potential paths forward.
Please note: I won't be making direct referrals for imaging, injections, or surgical consultations. However, I will provide a copy of the assessment and a report of findings for you to present to your primary care provider as recommendations for potential next steps.
This is not a rushed process, and throughout the visit you will have the opportunity to pause and ask questions, or clarify certain points. We'll make sure that you have the time to fully understand everything we go through.
As well, after we’re finished and have hung up, you will always be able to check-in and discuss any questions, concerns, or changes should they arise for up to six months post consultation. Sometimes just knowing you have someone you can call or email can make a big difference in your recovery.
*Consultations limited to residents of Ontario only*