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Preparing for your appointment

By Mayo Clinic staff

You may initially bring your signs and symptoms to the attention of your family physician, but he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in sports medicine or rheumatology — the treatment of conditions that affect the joints.

What you can do
You may want to write a list that includes:

  • Detailed descriptions of your symptoms
  • Information about medical problems you've had
  • Information about the medical problems of your parents or siblings
  • All the medications and dietary supplements you take
  • Questions you want to ask the doctor

What to expect from your doctor
During the physical exam, your doctor will check for points of tenderness around the affected area. The precise location of your pain can help determine if it's caused by other problems. Your doctor will also move your affected joint into different positions, to try to replicate your signs and symptoms.

References
  1. Questions and answers about bursitis and tendinitis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bursitis/default.asp. Accessed Aug. 21, 2009.
  2. Koutouzis T, et al. Tendinopathy and bursitis. In: Marx JA, et al. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2006. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/155931764-3/878758260/1365/357.html#4-u1.0-B0-323-02845-4..50120-7--cesec2_5842. Accessed Aug. 21, 2009.
  3. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 11, 2009.

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Nov. 4, 2009

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