Preparing for an appointment

You'll likely start by seeing your primary care provider, who might refer you to a doctor who specializes in diseases of the joints and muscles (rheumatologist) or one who specializes in metabolic bone disorders (endocrinologist).

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to your reason for making the appointment, and when they began
• Key personal information, including other medical conditions and family medical history
• All medications, vitamins and other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

For osteomalacia, basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Do I need to change my diet or lifestyle?
• Am I at risk of long-term complications from this condition?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, including:

• Where do you feel pain?
• When did your pain start, and has it progressed?
• Are any areas tender to the touch?
• Is your pain constant or does it come and go?
• Does anything make your symptoms better or worse?
• Have you had gastric bypass surgery or other bowel surgery?
• What treatments have you tried so far, if any? Has anything helped?