What to Expect During Your First Visit with a Bracing and Support Practitioner
Although each bracing and support practitioner’s process will vary, there are a number of things you can expect at your first appointment.
Before your appointment
As a new patient, you will be asked to complete a detailed health history form. Topics on the form may include:
- Personal and family medical history
- Major illnesses you have experienced
- Surgeries or operations you have had
- Medications you are taking
- A description of your present condition
- The steps you have taken to manage your condition
- Your diet and exercise
- Your sleeping habits, daily activities, work routine, stress level, and home life
When you meet with your bracing and support practitioner, he or she will have a detailed discussion with you about your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
During your appointment
Based on your medical information, your practitioner will recommend a device for you, and he or she will ensure that it fits properly before you leave. In other cases, your practitioner may recommend that you have a custom device made. This process takes a little more time, as it will require a second appointment to conduct a full bio-mechanical and gait analysis.
After your appointment
If you have had a custom brace made, your practitioner will want to meet with you once again to ensure a proper fit and provide care instructions for your new device.