What to Expect at Your Rothman Orthopedic Appointment

What a Rothman Orthopedic appointment involves

A Rothman Orthopedic appointment is an evaluation with an orthopedic surgeon or specialist at one of the Rothman Orthopaedic clinics, which operate across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. The appointment typically includes a physical examination of the affected joint or area, a review of your medical history, and discussion of imaging results if you've had X-rays or MRI scans done beforehand. Depending on what brought you in, your doctor may order new imaging, perform specific movement tests, or discuss treatment options ranging from physical therapy to surgery.

Rothman clinics are part of a larger orthopedic network, so you may be seen at a hospital-affiliated location or a standalone office. The appointment length varies — initial consultations usually run 30 to 45 minutes, while follow-up visits may be shorter. You'll check in at the front desk, complete or update paperwork, and then wait to be called back to an exam room.

Key Takeaways

• Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any recent imaging films or reports from other providers, as Rothman may not have access to outside records immediately.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being examined — avoid tight jeans or layered tops if you're seeing someone for a shoulder or knee issue.
• Write down your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and any previous injuries to that area, because the doctor will ask these questions.
• If you've had physical therapy, injections, or other treatments elsewhere, bring those records or a list of what was done and when.
• Ask about next steps before you leave — whether you need follow-up imaging, a referral to physical therapy, or a return visit to discuss results.

Documents and information to bring

Bring your insurance card and a photo ID to every appointment. If you have had X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans done at another facility, bring those films or a CD with the images — Rothman's system may not pull in outside imaging right away, and having the images on hand speeds up the evaluation. If the images are stored only at another hospital or imaging center, ask that facility to send them to Rothman before your appointment.

Bring a list of all medications you take, including over-the-counter pain relievers, supplements, and any injections you've received. If you've had previous orthopedic surgery, bring the operative report if you have it. Write down when your symptoms started, what activities make them worse, what you've tried so far (ice, rest, bracing), and whether anything has helped. This written list saves time during the appointment and ensures you don't forget details under the pressure of talking to the doctor.

What happens during the physical exam

The doctor will ask you to describe your pain or problem in detail — where it hurts, whether it's sharp or dull, whether it's constant or comes and goes, and what activities trigger it. They'll then examine the affected area by looking at it, feeling it, and moving it through a range of motion. They may compare the injured side to the uninjured side to spot differences in strength, flexibility, or swelling.

Specific tests depend on what you're being treated for. For a knee problem, the doctor might perform the Lachman test or McMurray test to check ligament stability. For a shoulder issue, they may test your rotator cuff strength or check for impingement. These tests can feel uncomfortable but are not meant to cause pain — tell the doctor immediately if something hurts sharply, as that information helps with diagnosis. The exam usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Imaging and diagnostic testing at the appointment

If you haven't had recent imaging, Rothman may order X-rays during your visit. Many Rothman locations have in-house imaging, so you may be able to get X-rays done the same day without leaving the building. The technician will position you and take images from different angles — the whole process takes just a few minutes. You'll wait while the images are developed, and the doctor will review them before you leave.

If the doctor thinks you need an MRI or advanced imaging, they will order it but you'll typically have that done at a separate appointment at an imaging center or hospital. The doctor will explain what the imaging is looking for and how long it usually takes to get results. Some results come back within a few days; others may take a week or longer. Ask when you should expect to hear back and whether you need to schedule a follow-up visit to discuss the results.

Treatment options discussed at your appointment

Based on the exam and any imaging, your doctor will discuss what's causing your problem and what can be done about it. For many orthopedic issues, the first step is conservative treatment: rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, or a brace or splint. The doctor may refer you to physical therapy, where a therapist will teach you exercises to strengthen and stabilize the area.

If conservative treatment isn't working or your condition is severe, the doctor may discuss injections (corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma), other procedures, or surgery. Ask what each option involves, how long recovery takes, and what the success rates are based on your specific diagnosis. Ask also what happens if you do nothing — some orthopedic problems improve on their own, while others get worse without treatment. Write down the recommendation and ask for printed materials or links to educational videos if the doctor has them.

After your appointment: next steps and follow-up

Before you leave, confirm what happens next. If you're being referred to physical therapy, ask whether Rothman has an in-house therapy clinic or whether you'll go elsewhere. If you need imaging, ask where to go and whether the order will be sent electronically or whether you need to carry it with you. If you're scheduled for a procedure or surgery, ask when that will be and what pre-appointment steps you need to take.

Ask about your follow-up appointment — whether you need to return after imaging results come back, after a course of physical therapy, or at a set interval. Some doctors schedule the follow-up before you leave; others ask you to call the office once you've completed the recommended treatment. Get the phone number for the clinic and ask how to reach the doctor's office if you have questions before your next visit.

How to prepare the day of your appointment

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets the doctor access the area being examined without you having to undress completely. If you're seeing someone for a knee or ankle problem, wear shorts or pants that roll up easily. For a shoulder or neck issue, wear a shirt that comes off easily. Avoid heavy jewelry, watches, or bracelets on the affected side, as these can get in the way during the exam.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in and paperwork. Bring all your documents in a folder or bag so nothing gets lost. If you're in significant pain, take your usual pain medication before the appointment so you're comfortable during the exam — the doctor needs to see how you move and function, so being in extreme pain can actually make the evaluation harder. Eat a light meal beforehand so you don't feel faint during the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor to see Rothman?

It depends on your insurance plan. Some plans require a referral; others allow you to self-refer to a specialist. Call your insurance company or Rothman's scheduling line before your appointment to confirm what your plan requires. If you do need a referral, your primary care doctor can usually send it electronically to Rothman within a day or two.

What if I don't have imaging done yet?

You don't need imaging before your first appointment. The doctor will examine you and decide whether imaging is necessary. Many orthopedic problems can be diagnosed based on the physical exam alone. If imaging is needed, the doctor will order it and explain why.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

Wait times vary by location and how urgent your condition is. Acute injuries or severe pain may be seen within a few days; routine appointments may take several weeks. Call Rothman's scheduling line to ask about current wait times for your location and condition.

Can I bring someone with me to the appointment?

Yes. Bringing a family member or friend is helpful, especially if you're anxious or if the appointment involves discussing complex treatment options. They can take notes and help you remember what the doctor said. Check with the clinic about their current policy on visitors.

What should I do if I disagree with the doctor's recommendation?

Ask questions about why they're recommending that option and what the alternatives are. You can also ask for a second opinion — many people do this for surgery recommendations. Rothman can provide copies of your records and imaging to take to another doctor if you want an outside opinion.