Before Your Appointment With a Summit Orthopedics Spine Specialist
Back or neck pain can make it hard to work or perform daily activities. It can also prevent you from doing the things you love. If your pain is interfering with your life, it’s time to make an appointment with a spine doctor who can help. At Summit Orthopedics locations in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, our spine specialists will provide the care you need, explaining exactly what you can expect at every step of your treatment.
Our Spine Specialists’ Approach to Care
You might be referred to a Summit Orthopedics spine specialist if your primary care physician determines that your back pain requires further diagnosis or specialized treatment. Our spine and orthopedic specialists have advanced training to provide expert care for your neck and back problems. In some cases, you may need to see one of our spine surgeons, an orthopedic surgeon with specific training to operate on the back and neck. Whenever possible, we take a conservative approach to your care before surgical options are considered.
Summit Orthopedics back specialists offer a collaborative approach to care. We partner with you to develop an integrated treatment plan tailored to your needs. You “drive the car” of your recovery while our team supports your journey with the tools and encouragement you need. Your participation in the exercise and rehabilitation program we create for you is also an important part of your recovery. We will always make sure you have the knowledge you need to commit to your exercises. If you ultimately need a procedure performed by one of our back surgeons, you can expect us to guide you safely through every stage of your recuperation.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your first appointment with your Summit Orthopedics spine specialist will include a detailed clinical evaluation. During this visit, your provider will:
- Take a full medical history, including a family history of certain conditions
- Perform a physical examination, which may include bends or stretches to assess your range of motion
- Have a discussion with you to fully understand your problem, address any concerns, and answer questions you may have
Your provider may also explain different treatment options to you, such as:
Together, we help you navigate your spine care decisions efficiently and effectively. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions and to guide you to the right back doctor at the right time.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
It is important to bring several things with you when seeing a doctor for spine care.
- Copays: You are responsible for any insurance copays at the time of your appointment. Contact your health insurance plan before your appointment to learn what copays or deductibles you may have.
- Insurance card and ID: Bring your health insurance card and your drivers’ license or photo ID.
- Imaging: If you have already had diagnostic imaging such as CT scans, MRI or X-rays on your back or neck, please bring them to your appointment or have your previous care team send them to us electronically.
- Medical records: Bring copies of any medical records related to your back or neck condition, so we can review your past care. Your providers may also be able to share these electronically.
We kindly ask that any cancellations be done at least 24 hours before your appointment, so we can make your appointment time available to another patient.
Visit one of our convenient locations in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We also offer state-of-the-art comprehensive care centers in Eagan, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN and Woodbury, MN, and community clinics across eastern and southern Minnesota.
