Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. He or she may refer you to a rheumatologist or an orthopedic surgeon.

What you can do

When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before having a specific test. Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
• Key personal information, including major stresses, recent life changes and family medical history, particularly if anyone in your immediate family has had similar symptoms
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including the doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you retain the information you're given.

For sacroiliitis, some questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms?
• What are other possible causes?
• What tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What's the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• How can I best manage this condition with my other health conditions?
• Are there restrictions I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• 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:

• When did your symptoms start?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• Where exactly is the pain and how severe is it?
• Does any type of activity worsen or lessen the pain?