Before an orthopedic injection, ask what diagnosis is being treated, whether the goal is pain relief or diagnosis confirmation, how long benefit might last, how many injections are reasonable, what risks apply, and whether an injection affects the timing of surgery.
How to use this guide
Use this article to prepare for a conversation with your treating doctor or to decide whether a doctor-reviewed second opinion may help. It is educational and does not diagnose, prescribe, or replace medical care.
Questions to bring forward
- What decision am I trying to make right now?
- Which records support the current recommendation?
- What are the benefits, risks, and alternatives?
- What would change the recommendation?