What to expect at your first visit
The initial visit is an evaluation. It focuses on understanding what is driving your pain, then discussing which options — if any — make sense for your situation.
- Start with the diagnosis
Understand the pain generator first
The initial visit focuses on understanding the likely source of your pain through your history, a physical examination, review of any prior imaging, and diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound when appropriate. The goal is to identify what is actually driving your symptoms before discussing any treatment.
- Discuss the options
A plan that fits your situation
Depending on what the evaluation shows, the path forward may involve rehabilitation and self-management, additional imaging, a referral, or a procedure when it is appropriate. The goal is not to fit every patient into a predetermined treatment protocol.
- No obligation to proceed
An evaluation is not a commitment to a procedure
Scheduling an initial consultation does not commit you to PRP, prolotherapy, shockwave therapy, or any other procedure. It is an evaluation first — you decide how to proceed once you understand what the exam shows and what the options are.
- Treatment timing
Some procedures are scheduled separately
Certain procedures require separate scheduling or preparation and may not be performed at the initial evaluation. This allows time to confirm the diagnosis, discuss expectations, and plan the procedure properly.
- Follow-up
Progress is reassessed, not assumed
Response to treatment is reviewed at follow-up, and the plan is adjusted based on how you are progressing — rather than automatically continuing a predetermined series of treatments.
What to bring, and how billing works
What to bring
When applicable, bring any relevant imaging reports or images, information about prior treatment you have tried, and an up-to-date list of your medications and supplements. These help make your first visit as productive as possible.
Insurance and cash-pay procedures
Initial consultations may be billable to insurance, depending on your plan and coverage. Regenerative procedures such as PRP and prolotherapy are generally cash-pay. See the FAQ for insurance and pricing details, or ask the front desk what applies before your visit.
Continuity from start to finish
Your evaluation, treatment, and follow-up are all with the same physician, providing continuity from diagnosis through recovery.
Ready to start with a clear diagnosis?
Book an initial musculoskeletal evaluation, or call the office if you are unsure which visit type fits.