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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you're experiencing aches, pains or stiffness in joints or muscles, you're likely to see your primary care doctor first. You may be referred to a specialist in inflammatory disorders of muscles and the skeletal system (rheumatologist).
You may want to bring a friend or relative to your appointment. This person, in addition to offering support, can write down information from your doctor or other clinic staff during the appointment.
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor will likely ask you a number of questions. Be prepared to answer the following:
- Where is the pain or stiffness located?
- When did the symptoms begin?
- How would you rate your current level of pain on a scale of 1 to 10?
- Are symptoms worse at certain times of day or night?
- How long does stiffness last after you wake in the morning or after a long period of inactivity?
- Does the pain or stiffness limit your activities? Are you avoiding any activities because of the symptoms?
- Have you experienced similar episodes of pain or stiffness in the past? Was the condition diagnosed and treated?
- Have you experienced any new or severe headaches?
- Have you noticed any changes in your vision?
- Have you experienced any jaw pain?
Prepare a list
Make a list to share with your primary doctor or rheumatologist. This list should include:
- The name and contact information of any doctor you have seen recently or see regularly
- Prescription medications and dosages
- Over-the-counter drugs or dietary supplements you take regularly
- Michet CJ, et al. Polymyalgia rheumatica. BMJ. 2008;336:765.
- Unwin B, et al. Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis. American Family Physician. 2006;74:1547.
- Polymyalgia rheumatica. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/diseases_and_conditions/polymyalgiarheumatica.asp. Accessed April 14, 2010.
- Polymyalgia rheumatica. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual of Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec04/ch033/ch033i.html. Accessed April 6, 2010.
- Salvarani C, et al. Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant-cell arteritis. Lancet. 2008;372:234.
- Giant cell arteritis. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/diseases_and_conditions/giantcellarteritis.asp. Accessed April 15, 2010.
- Glucocorticosteroid-induced osteoporosis. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/diseases_and_conditions/gi-osteoporosis.asp. Accessed April 15, 2010.
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