My goal for your first visit is simple: understand what’s actually causing your symptoms, and leave you with a clear plan, whether that’s therapy, further testing, an injection, or a conversation about surgery. Most people I see do not need an operation.
What happens during the visit
We’ll talk through your symptoms, what you’ve already tried, and how this is affecting your life. I’ll examine your strength, reflexes, sensation, and how you move. X-rays can be taken in the office the same day if needed. Then we’ll look at your imaging together: I’ll show you what I see and explain what it means in plain language. Finally, we’ll go over your options and decide on next steps together.
Bring your imaging on a disc, not just the report
If you’ve had an MRI, CT scan, or X-rays of your spine, please bring the actual images on a CD, along with the written report. Imaging centers can make you a copy, usually at no charge, but request it a few days ahead. I review the images myself rather than relying only on the report. Small details on the images often change the plan, and having them in hand can save you a repeat scan and a second visit.
Please still bring the CD. With so many imaging centers in the area, having the disc in hand is the only way to be sure I can review your images at the visit.
Also bring, if they apply to you
- Photo ID and insurance card
- IEHP, Medi-Cal managed care, or HMO plans: a referral from your primary care provider is usually required before the visit. Please confirm it has been sent.
- Work injury: your claim number and your adjuster’s name and phone number
- A list of your current medications
- Records of past spine treatment: physical therapy, injections (which level and how much they helped), nerve studies (EMG), and especially operative reports from any prior spine surgery
Before you arrive
You may receive forms by text or email to complete before your visit. Filling them out ahead of time keeps check-in quick. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in, and plan to arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
You develop new weakness, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or problems controlling your bladder or bowels. Seek emergency care right away.
Where I see patients
I see patients at four Arrowhead Orthopaedics offices: Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills, Riverside (Brockton Ave), and Redlands. Each location page has parking and check-in details.