An orthopedic visit isn’t just another appointment—it’s a step toward less pain, better movement, and living fully. Whether you’re coming in for the first time or returning for ongoing care, preparation helps you get the most out of your visit. The more we know about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle, the more effective and efficient your treatment can be.
At Dovetail Orthopedics, our approach goes far beyond simply treating joints or injuries. We take a whole-body, whole-person view of your recovery through our proven 3-step philosophy: Replenish the Body, Rebuild the Injury, Restore the Function. But it all starts with being ready on Day 1.
Here’s your complete guide to preparing for your orthopedic visit.
First-Time Orthopedic Patient? Here’s What to Expect and Prepare
If you’ve never seen an orthopedic provider before, it’s natural to feel a little unsure. Don’t worry—we’re here to walk you through it. Follow these steps to feel confident heading into your first appointment:
1. Bring Your Medical Records
If you’ve had any recent imaging (like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans), physical therapy reports, or referrals, bring them along. If possible, send them ahead of time through our secure online portal.
2. Make a List of Symptoms and Questions
Take a few minutes to jot down:
- When your issue started
- How the pain or limitation has changed
- What activities make it worse or better
- Any previous treatments or surgeries
Also, write down any questions you have—this is your time to get clear answers.
3. Know Your Medications and History
Be ready to list your current medications, supplements, and any allergies. We also need to know about past surgeries, chronic conditions, or family history that might relate to your care.
4. Dress for Movement
You might be asked to demonstrate certain movements or stretches, so wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move in (like athletic wear).
5. Don’t Forget Your ID and Insurance
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and referral (if required by your plan). We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes early to complete any forms.
Returning to Dovetail? Here’s What to Update Before Your Visit
If you’ve seen us before, welcome back! A few small updates before your return visit help us stay on top of your needs and make your appointment smooth:
1. Tell Us About Insurance or Medical Changes
New insurance provider? Recent medical diagnosis? Started a new medication? These can impact both treatment decisions and billing, so let our front office team know when you check in—or give us a quick call before your visit.
2. Bring Notes on Your Progress
If you’re in the middle of a recovery plan, keep a simple log of your symptoms. Note:
- When pain flares up
- How long it lasts
- What helps or hurts
- Any concerns about progress
This gives your provider better insight into your healing process.
3. Ask About New Options
Technology and treatments evolve. If you’ve heard of a new therapy or want to explore alternatives like regenerative medicine or orthotics, bring it up. Our providers are happy to walk you through what’s new and what might fit your goals.
4. Stick With the Plan
Revisit your previous care instructions and continue with prescribed therapies or rehab until your next visit—unless you’ve been directed otherwise. It helps keep your healing on track and gives us better data to evaluate your progress.
The Dovetail Orthopedics Difference: Replenish. Rebuild. Restore.
Orthopedic care isn’t just about fixing something that hurts. At Dovetail Orthopedics, we believe in total recovery, built on three pillars of care that support you from diagnosis through recovery—and beyond. Here’s what makes us different:
Step 1: REPLENISH the Body
We begin by strengthening the foundation: your body’s internal health. Before any orthopedic treatment or recovery can succeed, your body must have the nutritional and biochemical support it needs.
We use evidence-based medical (EBM) prescription vitamins and foods to rebalance your system. These targeted nutrients:
- Boost immune function
- Reduce inflammation
- Support tissue regeneration
- Enhance surgical and non-surgical recovery
By replenishing the body first, we set the stage for more effective healing—whether you’re pursuing surgery, therapy, or regenerative medicine.
Bonus Tip: Ask us about custom supplement protocols based on your lab results or surgery prep plan.
Step 2: REBUILD the Injury
Next, we focus on restoring the injured structure—whether that’s bone, tendon, ligament, or joint. We offer a full spectrum of treatments tailored to your goals, condition, and recovery timeline.
Some of our advanced options include:
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy
- TendoNova microinvasive procedures
- Apex Biologix regenerative therapies
- Lapiplasty® surgical treatment for bunions and deformities
Our approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. We evaluate every patient individually, considering both nonsurgical and surgical options, to rebuild the injury in the most effective and minimally invasive way possible.
Step 3: RESTORE the Function
Finally, we focus on your return to movement. Healing isn’t complete until you’re back to doing the things you love—whether that’s walking your dog, chasing your kids, or finishing a round of golf.
We offer a comprehensive lineup of functional support, including:
- Incrediwear anti-inflammatory garments
- Arize 3D-printed orthotics
- Edser Flopthotics for custom footwear support
- Targeted physical therapy and strength training plans
Our goal is not only to reduce pain, but also to enhance mobility, balance, and coordination so you can live life fully and confidently.
Want to dive deeper into how orthotics work?
Explore Flopthotics and Custom Footwear
Call Dovetail Orthopedics to Schedule Your Visit
Your time matters—and your health does, too. Whether it’s your first orthopedic visit or a follow-up, being prepared helps you get the most out of every appointment. And at Dovetail Orthopedics, we’re committed to walking with you every step of the way, from replenishment to full restoration.
Call us today at (904) 430-7132 to schedule your visit or use our online request form.
Let’s build a care plan around your goals—and help you get back to what moves you.